C2: First start tomorrow

[Mark F.]

Thanks to all those persons who've helped me through this year-long mechanical restoration. Tomorrow's the big day: what started out as a rebuild of the AFB has become a rebuilt replacement engine, starter, alternator, fuel system, and wiring harness. I'm going to start my '65 L-75 Powerglide tomorrow!

I've been over everything several times now, such as timing, plug wire attachment, fuel pump and carburetor readiness, and electrical system (alternator, coil, etc.), radiator and power steering fill, but I'm worried that there's something I'm missing. I've been through this sleepless night twice before with other Chevy's, but not Corvettes.

Any reminders are greatly appreciated. I'll check the incoming mail several times between now and tomorrow morning.

Thanks,

Mark

[David H.]

Re: C2: First start tomorrow

Don't forget to put 5 qts. of trans fluid in and fill carb bowl with fuel. make sure it starts right away if not find out why, also let it run at 1500 to 2000 rpm's and watch the temp and oil gauges. leave the radiator cap off and watch the fluid level, it can overflow if it gets too hot and you can fill without getting burned. If it gets hot just shut it off and let everything cool down. David

[Bryan L.]

Re: C2: First start tomorrow

pre-oiling is a good idea as well.

BL

[Christopher R.]

Re: C2: First start tomorrow

1. fire extinguisher at the ready.
2. garden hose ready.
3. battery cut-off switch, or cables connected in such a way so that they can be disconnected quickly and easily.
4. helper

[Craig S.]

Re: C2: First start tomorrow

I agree with Dave, plus spritz some gas or carb cleaner etc in the air horn to allow instant fire. Also make sure you preoil the engine, and give it zero idle for the first 30 minutes. Not sure what your cam specs and springs are, I also like to run the engines in with outer springs only, then install the inners to drop the lobe pressure during run in...but it is a pain to go this extra step...Craig

[Mark F.]

Thanks, everyone.

The engine lit off right away; no fluid leaks of any sort or any other surprises. Ran it at 2000 rpm for 20 minutes, with occasional bumps to 2500-3000, to break in the cam. Thanks everyone for your advice, I followed each suggestion, except for the valve springs, Craig.