The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop After 235 rebuild and start up questions

I finally started my 1956 Chevy 235 engine yesterday.

running 235

I was expecting more shaking and rattles but I was very impressed how smooth and quiet it was from an engine that was 59 years old with out modern technology. I guess that was my ignorance. I have the engine and transmission setting on the chassis and I will now send the body out for repair and expect it to be gone 2-4 months. The motor was ran for about 25 mins. at high RPM between 2000-2500 RPM. It was shut down for a little while and started again and ran for about maybe 30 mins so I could watch the gauges. It was running between 39 and 42 psi of oil pressure, the temp was steady about 190 degrees F, and Vacuum of 18 at an hi idle which was steady no needle bouncing. I had the muffler shop make some temporary pipes from the Fenton's to fit the mufflers I bought from craigslist so I would not upset the neighbors. I installed Tom's C/W set up and his mini HEI and it ran fine without any hiccups. The electric choke is not hooked up yet I will do that when I get the body back.

Here is my questions.

(1) Is there anything more I should test for or monitor?
(2) Should I not start the motor anymore or should I do weekly or monthly start up until I install the body and reach a certain mileage when I start driving it?
(3) any advice or should I just quit worrying?
(4) I am in the desert near Las Vegas, NV I will put antifreeze into it and remove the distilled water I used for the start up. Any recommdations?

thanks guys.

Very impressive, Tiny_Jaime

Thanks for taking/posting the video

Those Carter-Weber carbs are a nice compatibility match to a 235.

"any advice or should I just quit worrying? "

I am a simple-minded guy. Feel good, and move onto the next system/phase.

Great job & thanks for the video. Sharp engine!

On (2), there is a point of diminishing returns on simply idling a new engine versus driving it under load. When that point is- I don't know and I like Tim's advice above. From what I see, you definitely don't have to worry about the 'it ran when I parked it' situation; sounds good, looks good, gauge readings good...


Brad

Before you install fresh antifreeze and fenders, I would recommend installing all new frost plugs. I did not and paid the price.

Thanks guys it is my first rebuild ever. All the info i learned here i mean everything. I really enjoy this site. When i bought the truck it had a running v8 in the bed but i decided to stay original 6 and glad i did. I probably should not tell on myself but after i ran it for the 2nd time i knew i had good oil pressure when the oil gauge line came off and i shot a stream of oil about 10 feet from the end of the rear of the frame. I shut it down and broke out the cat liter. Rookie mistake. i guess i just like to make sure i do things right and worry too much. Lol Jerry everything was installed new expect the connecting rods and crank which i had the machine shop do their thing. Next phase body work.

Fantastic build. Can't wait to see the finished product.
Good Luck.