Benefits of Breaking In a Hydraulic Roller Cam

When it comes to installing a new hydraulic roller cam in your engine, one question that often arises is whether or not it needs to be broken in. While some may argue that breaking in a hydraulic roller cam is not necessary, there are actually several benefits to doing so. In this article, we will explore why breaking in a hydraulic roller cam can be beneficial for your engine’s performance and longevity.

First and foremost, breaking in a hydraulic roller cam allows the components to properly seat and wear in over time. This is especially important for new camshafts, as they need time to adjust to the engine’s operating conditions. By breaking in the camshaft, you are essentially giving it the opportunity to settle into place and function optimally.

Additionally, breaking in a hydraulic roller cam can help prevent premature wear and damage to the engine. Without proper break-in procedures, the camshaft may not be able to withstand the stresses of high-performance driving. This can lead to issues such as excessive wear, poor performance, and even engine failure in extreme cases. By taking the time to break in the camshaft, you are ensuring that it is able to handle the demands of your engine without causing any unnecessary damage.

Another benefit of breaking in a hydraulic roller cam is that it can help improve overall engine performance. A properly broken-in camshaft will provide smoother operation, better fuel efficiency, and increased power output. This is because the camshaft will be able to operate more efficiently and effectively once it has been properly seated and worn in. In essence, breaking in the camshaft can help optimize the engine’s performance and ensure that it is running at its best.

Furthermore, breaking in a hydraulic roller cam can help extend the life of your engine. By allowing the camshaft to properly seat and wear in, you are reducing the risk of premature wear and damage to other engine components. This can help prolong the life of your engine and save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs and replacements.

In conclusion, while breaking in a hydraulic roller cam may not be absolutely necessary, there are several benefits to doing so. From improving engine performance to extending the life of your engine, breaking in the camshaft can have a positive impact on your overall driving experience. So, if you are considering installing a new hydraulic roller cam in your engine, it may be worth taking the time to properly break it in. Your engine will thank you for it in the long run.

Steps to Properly Break In a Hydraulic Roller Cam

When it comes to installing a new hydraulic roller cam in your engine, one question that often arises is whether or not it needs to be broken in. The short answer is yes, it is important to properly break in a hydraulic roller cam to ensure optimal performance and longevity. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to properly break in a hydraulic roller cam.

First and foremost, it is important to understand what a hydraulic roller cam is and how it differs from a flat tappet cam. A hydraulic roller cam uses a roller lifter that allows for a more aggressive cam profile without the need for constant adjustment. This results in improved performance and durability compared to a flat tappet cam.

When installing a new hydraulic roller cam, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for break-in procedures. This typically involves running the engine at varying RPMs for a specified amount of time to ensure proper seating of the camshaft and lifters. Failure to properly break in a hydraulic roller cam can result in premature wear and reduced performance.

To begin the break-in process, start the engine and allow it to warm up to operating temperature. Once the engine is warmed up, increase the RPMs to around 2,000-2,500 for the first 20-30 minutes. This will help seat the camshaft and lifters while also allowing the engine to build oil pressure.

After the initial break-in period, it is important to vary the engine speed by running it at different RPMs for the next 30-60 minutes. This will help ensure that the camshaft and lifters are properly seated and that any metal particles are flushed out of the engine.

Throughout the break-in process, it is important to monitor oil pressure and engine temperature to ensure that everything is running smoothly. If you notice any abnormal fluctuations in oil pressure or temperature, it is important to shut off the engine immediately and investigate the issue.

Once the break-in process is complete, it is important to change the oil and filter to remove any metal particles that may have accumulated during the break-in period. This will help ensure that the engine is properly lubricated and ready for regular use.

In conclusion, breaking in a hydraulic roller cam is an important step in ensuring optimal performance and longevity. By following the manufacturer’s recommendations and properly varying the engine speed during the break-in process, you can help ensure that your new camshaft and lifters are properly seated and ready for regular use. Remember to monitor oil pressure and engine temperature throughout the break-in process and change the oil and filter once the break-in is complete. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your engine performs at its best for years to come.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Breaking In a Hydraulic Roller Cam

When it comes to installing a new hydraulic roller cam in your engine, there are several important steps to follow to ensure proper break-in and optimal performance. One common mistake that many people make is assuming that a hydraulic roller cam does not require a break-in period. While it is true that hydraulic roller cams do not require the same extensive break-in process as flat tappet cams, they still need to be properly broken in to ensure longevity and performance.

One of the most important things to remember when breaking in a hydraulic roller cam is to use the correct type of oil. It is recommended to use a high-quality, high-zinc oil specifically designed for break-in periods. This type of oil will provide the necessary lubrication to protect the camshaft and lifters during the break-in process. Using the wrong type of oil can lead to premature wear and damage to the camshaft and lifters.

Another common mistake to avoid when breaking in a hydraulic roller cam is not following the proper break-in procedure. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for break-in procedures, which typically involve running the engine at varying RPMs for a specific amount of time. This allows the camshaft and lifters to properly seat and wear in, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Additionally, it is important to check and adjust the valve lash during the break-in process. Hydraulic roller cams rely on proper valve lash settings to operate correctly, so it is crucial to check and adjust the valve lash as needed during the break-in period. Failure to do so can result in poor performance and potential damage to the camshaft and lifters.

One common misconception is that a hydraulic roller cam does not require any maintenance or adjustments after the break-in period. While hydraulic roller cams do require less maintenance than flat tappet cams, it is still important to periodically check and adjust the valve lash to ensure optimal performance. Neglecting to do so can result in poor performance and potential damage to the camshaft and lifters.

In conclusion, breaking in a hydraulic roller cam is an important step in ensuring optimal performance and longevity. By using the correct type of oil, following the proper break-in procedure, and checking and adjusting the valve lash as needed, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure that your hydraulic roller cam performs at its best. Remember to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines for your specific camshaft to ensure proper break-in and maintenance procedures. By taking the time to properly break in your hydraulic roller cam, you can enjoy years of reliable performance from your engine.

Conclusion

No, hydraulic roller cams do not require a break-in period.