- 1). Inspect the engine compartment one final time before starting the vehicle. You should look for loose hose connections as well as loose electrical connections. Search for any tools or bolts left under the hood as well. Check all fluid levels once more to ensure the newly rebuilt motor does not become damaged upon its first use.
- 2). Ask your assistant to ignite the engine and hold down the accelerator so it is between 1,200 to 1,500 rounds per minute (rpm) for the first 20 minutes. Watch for possible leaks around the motor and under the car. Look for any other potential problems around the engine and any of its adjoining systems as well. This includes the engine oil pan and coolant and fuel hoses.
- 3). Check the motor belts to ensure they are both tight and fully operational. The belts should be snug and not loose from their wheels. Allow the engine to run for three minutes if their is unnatural noise coming from it in order to let oil reach and circulate throughout the engine. Have your assistant watch the oil pressure gauge. If the noise persists, shut the engine down and ensure the oil pump is functioning correctly.
- 4). Allow the engine to run at regular idle speed following the first 20 minutes of testing. After the oil has circulated and noises have ended, set the engine timing if possible. Do this by shutting down the engine and loosening the distributor enough to rotate it manually. Connect a timing light tool as directed by the manufacturer's instructions. Follow the steps on the tune-up label found in the engine section of the vehicle's service manual to set the timing.
- 5). Test the vehicle on a road that is free from heavy traffic. Adjust your speed up to 40 miles per hour (mph) and release the accelerator. Allow the vehicle to coast down to around 15 mph and then again accelerate to 40 mph. Repeat this multiple times to assist the new piston rings in sealing properly. Check the engine for leaks or disconnections again after the vehicle is stopped.
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