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How to pump oil through a rebuilt engine

J

jeffsboat

Contributing Member
I was told that you can pump oil through a newly rebuilt engine before trying to fire it up for the first time. Can someone explain how to do this and any other suggestions as I am about to start a newly rebuilt engine.
 
I've never done it but a rebuilder i have used uses an electric drill to spin the oil pump. It may be overkill but he does it for 30 minutes or so.
 
You can remove the coil wire and crank the engine over with the starter 7 to 10 seconds at a time to push oil through the system. Do this until the gauge starts to read. Any good builder will use an assembly lube and oil the pistons and bores generously enough to not damage anything during the initial cranking of the new engine.
 
On the big blocks its done with the distributor and intermediate shaft removed, a hardened 5/16" hex bar stock or priming shaft (see link), and a reversing drill. Attach shaft to drill, set to counter clockwise rotation, plug in drill, insert hex into oil pump, push the button. The cam may need to rotate to allow oil flow to the rockers. Small blocks should be similar. Make sure you rotate the pump the same direction your distributor turns.

OR

Crank the engine with the starter, plugs removed.

You are looking for 10 to 15 psi on a known good mechanical gauge.


http://www.summitracing.com/parts/DCC-4286800/
 
Daves69 is right on. The drill to the oil pump drive is the correct way to do it.....on a small block as well.

Using a gauge is best but, typically, you'll also feel/hear the pressure via the drill....as it'll begin to labor a little once the pressure goes up.

The cam break-in is important.....so don't skimp on time. An IR temp gun is a great thing to have on hand for that process.....because you'll want to pay close attention to the temp in any/all areas during that 30 minutes.
 
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