What is the running-in method after an engine overhaul?
2 Answers
The running-in method after an engine overhaul is: 1. Avoid high speeds: The overhauled engine will have speed limits, try to keep it below 80 kilometers per hour, and also avoid letting the engine speed exceed 3000 rpm; 2. Avoid emergency braking: Emergency braking not only impacts the braking system during the running-in period but also increases the impact load on the chassis and engine. It is recommended not to perform emergency braking within 300 kilometers after the overhaul; 3. Pay attention to oil maintenance: Use high-quality, high-cleanliness oil for the car, not lower than the manufacturer's specified grade, and avoid using oils with added anti-wear agents or various additives to prevent further damage to the engine; 4. Check the coolant: After an engine overhaul, regularly check the coolant level. Insufficient coolant can cause engine overheating and wear; 5. Warm up before starting: Warm up the engine before starting. Warming up is actually giving the engine sufficient lubrication time, especially for turbocharged models, which must be warmed up before starting, and the lubrication time should be at least one minute or more.
After a major engine overhaul, the break-in method is quite important. My own car just went through a major overhaul last month, so I was extra careful. For the first 500 kilometers or so, I tried not to let the RPM exceed 3,000, driving with smooth acceleration and braking, avoiding sudden throttle or brake inputs. I checked the oil level daily to ensure there were no leaks or discoloration. For the first few hundred kilometers, avoid long-distance or high-speed driving—just stick to stop-and-go city traffic. Also, don’t put too much load on the engine, like towing a trailer or climbing hills with a full load. Changing the oil and filter once during the break-in period is crucial, as it helps remove debris generated by the friction of new components. Temperature is also important—avoid letting the engine overheat, and let it warm up for a minute or two after a cold start before driving. Overall, it feels like a gradual adaptation process. Driving gently helps the car last longer, and fuel efficiency can return to normal levels sooner. Being patient with these small steps prevents premature wear or noise issues down the road.
