Benefits of Breaking In a Hydraulic Cam

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

First and foremost, breaking in a hydraulic cam allows the components to properly seat and wear in together. This process helps to ensure that the camshaft and lifters work together smoothly and efficiently. Without proper break-in, there is a risk of premature wear and potential damage to the camshaft and lifters. By taking the time to break in the camshaft, you are essentially setting the stage for optimal performance and longevity of these critical engine components.

Another benefit of breaking in a hydraulic cam is that it allows for any imperfections or inconsistencies in the camshaft to be smoothed out. During the break-in process, the camshaft and lifters undergo a series of cycles that help to wear down any high spots or rough edges. This results in a more uniform surface that promotes better contact and reduces the risk of excessive wear or damage over time. By breaking in the camshaft, you are essentially improving its overall quality and performance.

In addition to improving the performance and longevity of the camshaft, breaking in a hydraulic cam can also help to prevent issues such as lifter noise and poor valve timing. When a new camshaft is installed without proper break-in, there is a risk of the lifters not properly seating or the valves not opening and closing at the correct times. This can result in noisy operation, reduced power, and potential engine damage. By taking the time to break in the camshaft, you are ensuring that these issues are minimized and that your engine operates smoothly and efficiently.

Furthermore, breaking in a hydraulic cam can also help to improve overall engine performance. A properly broken-in camshaft will provide better valve timing, improved lift and duration, and smoother operation. This can result in increased horsepower, torque, and overall engine efficiency. By investing the time and effort into breaking in the camshaft, you are essentially setting the stage for a more powerful and reliable engine.

In conclusion, while it may not be absolutely necessary to break in a hydraulic cam, there are several benefits to doing so. From improving the performance and longevity of the camshaft to preventing issues such as lifter noise and poor valve timing, breaking in a hydraulic cam can have a significant impact on your engine’s overall operation. By taking the time to properly break in the camshaft, you are essentially setting the stage for optimal performance and longevity of your engine. So, if you want to get the most out of your new hydraulic camshaft, it is definitely worth considering breaking it in.

Steps to Properly Break In a Hydraulic Cam

When it comes to installing a new hydraulic cam in your engine, one question that often arises is whether or not you need to break it in. The short answer is yes, you do need to break in a hydraulic cam to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Properly breaking in a hydraulic cam is crucial to prevent premature wear and ensure that the camshaft and lifters are properly seated and functioning as they should.

The break-in process for a hydraulic cam is essential because it allows the camshaft and lifters to wear together and form a smooth surface. This helps to prevent excessive wear and ensures that the camshaft and lifters work together harmoniously. Failing to properly break in a hydraulic cam can result in premature wear, poor performance, and even engine damage.

So, how do you properly break in a hydraulic cam? The process is relatively straightforward but requires attention to detail and patience. The first step is to ensure that the engine is properly lubricated before starting the break-in process. This means using a high-quality engine oil that is specifically designed for break-in procedures.

Once the engine is properly lubricated, the next step is to start the engine and allow it to run at a low RPM for the first 20-30 minutes. This allows the camshaft and lifters to wear together gradually and form a smooth surface. It is important to avoid high RPMs during this initial break-in period to prevent excessive wear on the camshaft and lifters.

After the initial break-in period, it is recommended to change the engine oil and filter to remove any metal shavings or debris that may have accumulated during the break-in process. This helps to ensure that the engine is properly lubricated and that any contaminants are removed from the system.

Once the oil has been changed, it is important to continue running the engine at varying RPMs for the next 500-1000 miles. This helps to further wear in the camshaft and lifters and ensures that they are properly seated and functioning as they should. It is important to avoid prolonged periods of high RPMs during this break-in period to prevent excessive wear on the camshaft and lifters.

After the break-in process is complete, it is important to regularly check the engine oil and filter to ensure that they are clean and free of contaminants. It is also recommended to have the engine inspected by a professional to ensure that the camshaft and lifters are properly seated and functioning as they should.

In conclusion, breaking in a hydraulic cam is an essential step in ensuring optimal performance and longevity. By following the proper break-in procedures and taking care to properly lubricate the engine, you can help prevent premature wear and ensure that the camshaft and lifters are properly seated and functioning as they should. Remember to be patient and attentive during the break-in process, as it can make a significant difference in the performance and longevity of your engine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Breaking In a Hydraulic Cam

When it comes to installing a new hydraulic cam in your engine, there are several important steps to follow to ensure proper break-in and optimal performance. One common misconception among car enthusiasts is the belief that hydraulic cams do not require a break-in period. However, this is not entirely true. While hydraulic cams do not require the same extensive break-in process as solid cams, they still need to be properly broken in to prevent premature wear and ensure longevity.

One of the most common mistakes people make when breaking in a hydraulic cam is not using the correct type of oil. It is crucial to use a high-quality, zinc-rich oil specifically designed for break-in periods. This type of oil provides the necessary lubrication and protection for the camshaft and lifters during the break-in process. Using the wrong type of oil can lead to increased wear and potential damage to the camshaft and lifters.

Another common mistake is not following the manufacturer’s recommended break-in procedure. Each camshaft manufacturer provides specific instructions on how to properly break in their camshafts. This typically involves running the engine at varying RPMs for a certain amount of time to ensure proper seating of the camshaft and lifters. Ignoring these instructions can result in poor performance, increased wear, and potential damage to the engine.

It is also important to check and adjust valve lash during the break-in period. Hydraulic lifters rely on proper valve lash adjustment to maintain optimal performance. Failing to check and adjust valve lash can lead to noisy operation, poor performance, and potential damage to the camshaft and lifters. It is recommended to check and adjust valve lash after the break-in period and periodically thereafter to ensure proper operation.

Another common mistake is not properly priming the oil system before starting the engine. Hydraulic cams rely on proper oil flow and pressure to operate effectively. Failing to prime the oil system can result in inadequate lubrication, increased wear, and potential damage to the camshaft and lifters. It is crucial to prime the oil system before starting the engine to ensure proper lubrication and protection during the break-in process.

Lastly, it is important to avoid excessive idling during the break-in period. While it is necessary to run the engine at varying RPMs to properly break in the camshaft, excessive idling can lead to poor lubrication, increased wear, and potential damage to the engine. It is recommended to avoid extended periods of idling and instead focus on varying the engine speed to ensure proper break-in and optimal performance.

In conclusion, breaking in a hydraulic cam is an essential step in ensuring proper performance and longevity. By using the correct type of oil, following the manufacturer’s recommended break-in procedure, checking and adjusting valve lash, priming the oil system, and avoiding excessive idling, you can prevent common mistakes and ensure optimal performance from your hydraulic cam. Remember to always consult the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines to ensure proper break-in and operation of your camshaft.

Conclusion

Yes, it is recommended to break in a hydraulic cam to ensure proper seating of the camshaft and lifters.