What is the break-in method after an engine overhaul?
3 Answers
An engine after a major overhaul will have speed limits; try to keep it below 80 kilometers per hour and avoid letting the engine speed exceed 3,000 RPM. Specific details are as follows: 1. After an engine overhaul: If the repair meets the technical requirements, the engine performance can be restored to over 90% of its original state. Normally, the service life of an engine after a major overhaul will be shorter than the original engine, and its durability will also decrease. This is an undeniable fact. 2. Precautions: Do not accelerate abruptly right after the engine is repaired; accelerate slowly and avoid driving too fast initially. Pay attention to the normal water temperature and ensure there are no oil leaks. Start by idling for a period to break in the engine.
I just finished overhauling my old Bora, and the break-in period is quite particular! The mechanic at the repair shop said the first 500 kilometers are the most critical: don't rush to step on the gas after starting; wait until the coolant temperature reaches 90 degrees before moving. Keep the speed below 80 km/h and the RPM under 3000. When climbing hills, shift to a lower gear in advance to avoid straining the engine. I checked the dipstick every 200 kilometers and indeed found a lot of metal shavings initially. Over the weekend, I deliberately took a smooth highway drive to ensure even wear of the piston rings. Now, after completing 1000 kilometers, the engine sound is noticeably smoother.
Bro, take my advice, treating an engine after repair is like taking care of a newborn! For the first 300 kilometers, drive it like it's made of tofu: gentle on the throttle, smooth on the brakes, and avoid sudden acceleration or hard stops. I've run a repair shop for ten years and seen too many people floor it right after a fix, only to end up with cylinder wall damage and back in the shop. Remember to use mineral oil instead of full synthetic when changing the oil—it's better at cleaning and cheaper. Drive on various road conditions, combining stop-and-go city driving with steady suburban cruising, to ensure the gears mesh properly from all angles.
