The sleeve will start expanding to the proper design parameters at approximately 205 degrees F., however, this does not
mean that this is the normal operating temperature; it only means that you need to always get your engine up to at least this
temperature as quickly as possible after the engine is started. Surprisingly, many companies today still recommend the old-
fashioned way of breaking in an engine, as described earlier in this manual, but we have found that our method not only
makes more common sense, but helps your engine run much better and with more longevity. The old-fashioned method of
break-in; running the engine at low temperatures and very rich for several tanks, destroys the piston prematurely. By breaking
in your engine the old-fashioned way, the piston actually “wears in” to the cool and under expanded sleeve size. Once the
break-in process is complete and you start running the engine up to normal temperatures, the sleeve expands further, but
the piston is already “worn in” to the smaller sleeve size. Obviously this will cause lower compression, less power, and shorter
piston and sleeve life. In contrast, using our method the piston and sleeve heat up quickly and to the designed size
parameters immediately, eliminating the constant wearing of the piston against the sleeve.
4.
Here’s the tricky part: to the best of your ability, immediately begin dialing-in the high speed needle valve for maximum RPM
performance during the first tank of fuel (see more detailed information on setting the needles in the “SETTING THE
NEEDLE VALVES FOR OPTIMUM PERFORMANCE” section further in this manual). During the break-in period make sure
to keep your engine temperature at least 205º as previously mentioned by making 5 second (WOT) high speed passes back
and forth, on the type surface you prefer to operate on – this will keep the piston and sleeve hot enough while the operator
tweaks the needle during quick pit stops. A helper is very handy for this critical operation! Ideally, get the needle valves set
for maximum performance and a reliable idle as quickly as possible; generally within 5 WOT passes you should try to have
it set. If performed correctly, the engine should be running near normal operating temperatures for the entire break-in
process. Depending on the operating surface, outdoor temperature, etc., your break-in temperature will range between 205º
and 260º F., but this is on average, so don’t be alarmed if the temperature is higher. For the most part, you will see that the
main difference between our break-in method and normal operation is that during break-in there is a cool down period
required between each tank of fuel. Once the break-in period is finished, you will see normal temperatures range between
220º and 290º F. Following the above procedures, run the engine for a complete tank of fuel – then shut it down. Allow the
engine to cool down COMPLETELY before re-starting.
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