start-up issues on a 3.0 build

[haycait911]

nothing devastating but I thought I would share my experience. engine build detailed here:

3.0/915 in a SWB - the perfect combo?

1. SC dizzys turn counter-clockwise. putting your plug wires in clockwise sequence will greatly extend the break-in period.

2. after the first road run had a massive oil leak, apparently. opened the lid to massive amounts of smoke and oil everywhere. it turns out I was blowing LOTS of oil thru the breather filter I mounted top center in the engine compartment. hooked up a very stylish plastic bottle. I expect once the rings seat I should have much less blow-by and positive crankcase pressure, hence less oil blowing out.

3. new MSD's don't always work.

4. check the emulsion tube and air correction numbers on the used carbs you bought BEFORE installing them. very hard to see once in place.

on track now, I think. lots of going up and down hills for break-in. accelerate up, compression brake down. Wayne's book and fellow pelicans are lifesavers. I've now built a 911 engine, but wouldn't know where to start on a chevy small-block.

[jpnovak]

Don, Great to hear the new engine is running.

[billybek]

How did I miss those threads?
It looks like a pretty cool project.
If I am out in your neck of the woods this summer, I would really like to see the car.

[haycait911]

**UPDATE**
engine breaking in nicely. no smoke on start up. re-gapped the plugs today to .045 as I installed an MSD 6AL2. they were a little black/sooty which is OK by me for now. running lean is not good. re-installed breather vent as the catch bottle wasn't catching much oil now. also did a quick compression check, 140-150 PSI across the board. still need to balance the carbs.

still goes like stink. makes the brakes and suspension overhaul/upgrade a little more imperative.