New engine startup???

[oldguy668]

I'm getting ready to drop my new 351 crate motor into the car. The paperwork says it was run at the factory, and it's been sitting here for about 2 months. Should I install a temporary manual oil pressure gauge and spin it over on the stand (without spark plugs)'till I get a reading, or should I just turn it over a few times after it's installed. I haven't done this for many, many moons, and I don't want to pork a brand new motor.

[Frank Messina]

It is not really advisable to dry crank a fresh engine by using the starter motor as you want to keep piston movement to a minimum until the rings are fully seated. On a fresh engine I use a breaker bar on the crank snout to make sure everything is free, but in moderation (and in the direction of normal rotation). As far as priming goes, if you think you need it(the engine has already been run), use an oil pump priming tool connected to your electric drill. Don't drown it, just enough to get oil to the top of the motor is good. Good luck
Frank

[John / My427SC]

I would definitely buy the priming tool and use an electric drill - just to be on the safe side. Who know how long the engine sat at the factory