S TA R T I N G , S T O P P I N G A N D
N E W E N G I N E B R E A K - I N
S TA R T I N G , S T O P P I N G A N D
N E W E N G I N E B R E A K - I N
Failure to follow the break-in and operating procedures as described in this Own-
er’s Manual will void the warranty. Before operating the boat for the first time, you
must read this Owner’s Manual completely, as well as the boat manufacturer’s
Owner’s Manual.
Proper break-in of the engine
and transmission is critical to ensuring
a long life for the drive train. The first twenty-five (25) hours, when properly completed,
will ensure maximum performance as well. The break-in period allows the engine and
transmission components to properly seat and begins the wearing process properly.
Although your ILMOR engine and V-drive and direct drive transmissions may have
been lake-tested by the boat manufacturer, the break-in period is considered to have start-
ed when the retail consumer takes possession of the boat and follows the instructions
provided in this Owner’s Manual.
Boat owners should not remove the factory break-in oil until after a minimum of ten
(10) hours proper operation, but not later than twenty-five (25) hours. At that time, an
oil change should be performed by an authorized ILMOR dealer, who will be able to
“read” the oil and filter to determine if the proper break-in of the engine components
appears to be occurring.
During the break-in period, maintain the correct
oil level to ensure that the internal affected compo-
nents are well-lubricated. Watch the gauges on the
instrument panel closely as they are the first line of
defense. Well before serious damage occurs to an en-
gine, gauges can alert the operator to circumstances
that can lead to major damage.
Any abnormal vibrations or unusual noises may
be symptomatic of additional problems that are not
registered by gauges or alarms. Do not ignore them.
Have an authorized ILMOR dealer check out anything
that seems unusual. It may be a minor issue that re-
quires a simple tightening of screws or bolts, but it
may also signal serious internal issues.
Plane the boat quickly, as low speeds can place more
strain on the engine operation. This does not mean to slam the throttle/shift control lever
forward; rather a steady, quick hand will help achieve the goal.
Adjusting and varying engine speeds can also help the engine during break-in. Keep-
ing the engine at a constant revolutions per minute (RPM) for more than three (3) or four
(4) minutes at a time places undue stress on the rings and bearings inside the engine.
2011 ILMOR MV8 Owner’s Manual • Page 23