Just bought a new engine.? Some important break in tips..

Just bought a new engine.? Some important break in tips..

There is nothing better then getting a new engine for your equipment.
It is easy to forget that there are a few steps to take when breaking in your small engine. In this guide, we will look at the steps required to break in your small
engine.

1) Read The Owners Manual It may seem boring, mundane and unnecessary, but no matter what type of engine you have purchased, reading the owners manual should be the first thing you do. Every engine is different and the break in procedure will vary between models. Each manufacturer will offer there own advice on breaking in a certain engine. Many engines are released with new advanced features every year including electric starters, automatic chokes and numerous safety features. Stay ahead of the curve and read your owners manual.

2) Add Oil Oil is the lifeblood of the engine that lubricates all the internal
parts. Never ever assume the engine comes pre-filled with oil. This can end up being a very costly mistake. Most engines will initially require break-in oil to start off with. Follow instruction from your owners manual when adding the initial break-in oil. Break-in oil would usually need to be changed within the first
5 to 10 hours of use. A new engine will contain microspic asperities that break off when they start rubbing against each other. These small particles then enter the oil and can cause abrasion to the internals. It is for this reason, that changing the initial break-in oil is of great importance.

3) Add Fuel Before you get the fuel can out of the shed to top up your engine, you should ask yourself the question, "How old is the fuel". Over time, fuel can go bad and will gum up, causing damage to your fuel lines and carburettor. Always remember to use fresh fuel. Metal fuel cans are also a no no as they are known to cause condensation which will water down fuel. If you foresee the fuel sitting for longer then a few weeks, it may be worthwhile investing in a fuel stabilizer, which will keep your fuel fresher for longer.

4) Start Your Engine You have read your owners manual , topped the engine up with fuel and oil, so its now time to start your engine. Before you start working, it is best to let the engine run for 2 to 5 minutes without any load. This will allow the critical components of the engine to lubricate correctly. Following all the steps we have covered today, will ensure your engine works hard for you, for many years to come.

1 comment

Has my engine arrived?

STEPHEN RITCHIE,

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