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 you need to break it 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 the advantages of breaking in a hydraulic roller cam and why it is a crucial step in ensuring the longevity and performance of your engine.

First and foremost, breaking in a hydraulic roller cam allows the components to properly seat and wear in. During the initial break-in period, the cam lobes and lifters will mate together, creating a smooth and consistent surface for optimal performance. This process helps to prevent premature wear and ensures that the camshaft operates at its full potential.

Additionally, breaking in a hydraulic roller cam helps to remove any residual metal particles or debris that may have accumulated during the manufacturing process. By running the engine at varying speeds and loads during the break-in period, these particles are flushed out, reducing the risk of damage to the camshaft and other engine components.

Another benefit of breaking in a hydraulic roller cam is that it allows the engine to settle and adjust to the new camshaft profile. This is especially important if you have made any modifications to the engine, such as increasing the lift or duration of the camshaft. By breaking in the camshaft, you give the engine time to adapt to these changes and ensure that it runs smoothly and efficiently.

Furthermore, breaking in a hydraulic roller cam can help to identify any potential issues or problems with the engine. During the break-in period, you may notice unusual noises or vibrations that could indicate a problem with the camshaft or other components. By addressing these issues early on, you can prevent more serious damage and costly repairs down the line.

In addition to these benefits, breaking in a hydraulic roller cam can also improve the overall performance and efficiency of your engine. A properly broken-in camshaft will provide smoother acceleration, increased power, and better fuel economy. This is because the camshaft and other components are working together harmoniously, maximizing the engine’s potential.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to skip the break-in process when installing a new hydraulic roller cam, the benefits far outweigh the time and effort required. By breaking in the camshaft, you can ensure that your engine operates at its full potential, prevent premature wear and damage, and improve overall performance and efficiency. So, the next time you install a new hydraulic roller cam, be sure to take the time to properly break it in – your engine will thank you.

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 you need to break it in. The short answer is yes, you do need to break in a hydraulic roller cam. While hydraulic roller cams are known for their ease of maintenance and durability, proper break-in procedures are still necessary to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

The first step in properly breaking in a hydraulic roller cam is to make sure that the camshaft and lifters are properly lubricated before installation. This can be done by using a high-quality assembly lube specifically designed for camshafts and lifters. Applying a generous amount of assembly lube to the cam lobes and lifter faces will help prevent premature wear and ensure smooth operation during the break-in process.

Once the camshaft and lifters are properly lubricated, the next step is to install them in the engine according to the manufacturer’s specifications. It is important to follow the recommended torque specifications for the camshaft bolts and ensure that all components are properly aligned and seated before proceeding with the break-in process.

After the camshaft and lifters are installed, the next step is to prime the oil system to ensure proper lubrication during the break-in process. This can be done by using a priming tool to spin the oil pump and circulate oil throughout the engine before starting the engine for the first time. Proper oil pressure is essential for lubricating the camshaft and lifters during break-in, so it is important to make sure that the oil system is properly primed before starting the engine.

Once the oil system is primed, the next step is to start the engine and run it at varying RPMs for the first 20-30 minutes. It is important to avoid prolonged idling or high RPMs during the break-in process, as this can cause premature wear on the camshaft and lifters. Instead, it is recommended to run the engine at varying RPMs between 1500-2500 for the first 20-30 minutes to ensure proper break-in of the camshaft and lifters.

After the initial break-in period, it is important to change the oil and filter to remove any metal shavings or debris that may have accumulated during the break-in process. This will help prevent premature wear and ensure proper lubrication of the camshaft and lifters moving forward. It is also recommended to check the valve lash and adjust as necessary to ensure proper operation of the camshaft and lifters.

In conclusion, while hydraulic roller cams are known for their durability and ease of maintenance, proper break-in procedures are still necessary to ensure optimal performance and longevity. By following the steps outlined above, you can properly break in a hydraulic roller cam and enjoy years of reliable performance from your engine.

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 certain steps that need to be taken to ensure proper break-in. One common misconception is that hydraulic roller cams do not require a break-in period like flat tappet cams do. However, this is not entirely true. While 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 optimal performance and longevity.

One of the most common mistakes people make when installing a new hydraulic roller cam is skipping the break-in process altogether. Some may assume that because hydraulic roller cams have a roller mechanism that reduces friction, they do not need to be broken in. However, this is not the case. Hydraulic roller cams still require a break-in period to allow the camshaft and lifters to properly seat and wear in together.

During the break-in process, it is important to use the proper break-in oil and additives to ensure proper lubrication and protection for the camshaft and lifters. Using the wrong type of oil or additives can lead to premature wear and potential damage to the camshaft and lifters. It is recommended to use a high-quality break-in oil with added zinc and phosphorus to provide the necessary protection during the break-in period.

Another common mistake people make when breaking in a hydraulic roller cam is not following the proper break-in procedure. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended break-in procedure to ensure the camshaft and lifters are properly seated and wear in together. This typically involves running the engine at varying RPMs for a certain amount of time to allow the camshaft and lifters to wear in evenly.

Additionally, it is important to check and adjust the valve lash during the break-in process to ensure proper valve train geometry and performance. Improper valve lash can lead to poor performance, excessive wear, and potential damage to the camshaft and lifters. It is recommended to check and adjust the valve lash after the break-in period to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

One final common mistake people make when breaking in a hydraulic roller cam is not properly maintaining the engine after the break-in period. It is important to continue using high-quality oil and additives to provide the necessary protection for the camshaft and lifters. Regular oil changes and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and performance of the camshaft and lifters.

In conclusion, while 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 optimal performance and longevity. By avoiding common mistakes such as skipping the break-in process, using the proper break-in oil and additives, following the manufacturer’s recommended break-in procedure, checking and adjusting the valve lash, and properly maintaining the engine after the break-in period, you can ensure that your hydraulic roller cam performs at its best for years to come.

Conclusion

No, hydraulic roller cams do not require breaking in.