My 2 cents,
First, what type of cam is it, roller or hydraulic? It makes a difference on the break in.
Then find out what is on the camshaft, what did they use for prelube? grease or oil type. It matters because grease will still be on it, the oil types will drip off in a day or so.
Next, does it have stock valve springs or some high seat pressure springs (race type)? This matters because you need to know how much load is on the cam. The heavy valve springs can kill a cam very quick if the cam is not lubed enough. With heavy springs, cam manufacturers recommend removing the inner springs for break in to lessen the load on the cam.
Use a good quality oil, I like the Brad Penn Racing oils, you can find it on line, its loaded with all the ingredients need for break in. Also add one bottle of GM ESO oil additive from Summit racing or your local dealer. Add it no matter what oil you choose.
Pre prime the engine, rotating four turns only pausing every 90 degrees to fill all 16 lifters with oil. Keep the drill running the whole time.
Have a carburetor that runs good, ready to bolt on with fuel in it. Pre run it on another engine if needed, it must be ready to fire off asap.
Have the ignition as close as you can get it and be sure it runs and works as it should.
Have the cooling system filled with water only, water cools better then coolant and if some thing goes wrong, you are not standing in sticky coolant. Have a hose handy to cool the radiator if the fan is not keeping up. Don't let the engine get above 200 or 205, and try your best not to shut it down during break in.
Once it starts, get it to 1800 rpm right away, set the timing by ear. The first minute or two is the most important of all the break in. Have a good working oil pressure gauge where you can see it. You MUST have pressure right now or the cam will die.
Keep it running at 1800 for 15 minutes then step it up to 2000 for 5 minutes, then 2500 for the last 3 or four minutes. Slowly bring it down to a idle to set the timing and carb. Let it idle for a bit to cool down, don't shut it off blazing hot.
Keep the same break in oil in it for 500 miles or so changing the filter only if you feel the need. Be sure to add back what you take out with the filter.
NEVER EVER walk away from it, keep your eyes on the gauges and ears open for noise.
Joe
