What are the precautions after an engine overhaul?
2 Answers
Precautions for engine maintenance include that the water pump fan belt is not necessarily the tighter the better; do not use a blowtorch to bake the oil pan; and do not blindly remove the engine thermostat. The following are specific introductions: The water pump fan belt is not necessarily the tighter the better: A tighter belt is not necessarily better. An overly tight belt will not only cause it to stretch or break, shortening the belt's service life, but also due to excessive tension, it can lead to deformation and bending of the generator shaft and water pump shaft, as well as early damage to the bearings. Do not use a blowtorch to bake the oil pan: Using a blowtorch to bake the oil pan in winter will not only cause chemical changes in the additives in the engine oil, losing their original performance, but also cause the oil to coagulate and the oil pan to deform, easily leading to a fire. Do not blindly remove the engine thermostat: If the thermostat is removed blindly due to high engine temperature, the coolant can only circulate in a large loop and cannot regulate the cooling intensity, making it difficult to ensure the engine operates at a suitable temperature. Instead, the engine will often operate at low temperatures, resulting in decreased engine power, accelerated wear, and increased fuel consumption.
After the engine overhaul, I've become extra cautious when driving. The first 1,000 kilometers are the break-in period, during which I keep the speed below 60 km/h, avoiding sudden acceleration or hard braking to let the new components gradually adapt. I check the engine oil daily to ensure the level is neither too high nor too low, and that it remains clean and clear to prevent impurities from damaging the internals. Coolant is also a priority—I keep an eye on the temperature gauge to avoid overheating, making sure it stays in the middle range for safety. I avoid towing any heavy loads, like trailers or fully packed luggage, to prevent overloading the engine. At the end of each trip, I inspect under the hood for any oil leaks or unusual noises. Once the break-in period is over, I immediately take it to a professional shop to check the spark plugs, cylinder pressure, and fuel system. Going through this entire process significantly extends the engine's lifespan. Although it’s a bit troublesome at first, it saves on long-term repair costs and gives peace of mind on the road.
