9- Initial Start-Up And Engine Break-In
NOTE -
engines are designed for high performance and as
such are not as tolerant of inadequate break-in as stock or
lower performance engines. Correct break-in will assure
longer engine life and will prevent unnecessary engine
damage. Engine damage caused by improper break-in is not
covered under the S&S
®
warranty.
A- Initial start-up
1- For the initial start up, the fuel and ignition
systems should be adjusted to their baseline
settings. (Baseline settings allow the bike to start
and run, and are the starting point for tuning.)
This is adequate for the initial start-up and heat-
cycling of the engine.
NOTE -
Because there are several ignition and fuel system
combinations possible with the S&S
®
T111 engine, baseline
settings are not listed here. Refer to the appropriate ignition
or fuel system instruction sheet.
2- Run engine approximately one minute at 1250-
1750 rpm. DO NOT crack throttle or subject to
any loads during this period as head gaskets are
susceptible to failure at this time. During this
time, check to see that oil pressure is normal, and
that oil is returning the oil tank.
3- Shut off engine and thoroughly check for any oil
leaks, fuel leaks, or other problems. Let engine
cool to the touch.
4- After engine has cooled, start up again and allow
the motor to build some heat. Engine should not
be run longer than three to four minutes. When
the cylinders become warm/hot to the touch
(approximately 150°) shut the motor down and let
it cool to room temp. Follow the same cautions as
for the initial start-up, and continue to watch for
problems.
5- Repeat this procedure 3 or 4 times. Each
successive time it should take slightly longer to
warm up and you can increase the temperature
slightly each time. You can be more liberal each
time with the rpm, gently vary rpm continuously
from idle up to 2500 rpm in the final cycle. The
motor should not reach full operating
temperature during these cycles. Do not allow
engine temperature to become excessive.
B. Engine break-in
1- Closely monitor engine for excessive heat build-
up. Do not allow the engine to idle for long
periods of time. Be especially watchful when air
temperatures exceed 90 degrees. Slow speed
operation in urban areas during the summertime
is especially hard on engines.. Temperature for
engine oil should be between 180º - 240º F. If
engine oil temperature stays above 220º F, and
correct ignition timing has been verified, S&S
®
Cycle suggests that an oil cooler be installed. Do
not run engine under conditions where oil
temperatures continue to remain high.
2- For the first 50 miles ride the motorcycle in a very
conservative manner. The first 50 miles are most
critical for new rings and piston break-in. Engine
damage is most likely to occur during this period.
Keep heat down by not exceeding 2500 rpm.
Avoid lugging the motor, riding in hot weather
or in traffic. Vary the engine speed. Do not lug
the engine. Change the oil at 50 miles. This will
remove the heavy accumulation of break in
residue from the oiling system.
3- The next 500 miles should be spent running
engine no faster than 3500 rpm or 60 mph.
Correct any obvious ignition or fuel problems, if
present. Avoid continuous steady speeds, and do
not lug the engine. Vary engine rpm. change the
oil again at 500 miles.
Lugging or running engine prematurely at sustained high rpm
may result in damage to pistons and other engine
components. S&S voids it’s guarantee if engine is not broken
in properly.
4- For the balance of the first 1000 miles the motor
can be run in a normal but conservative manner.
You can be more liberal with the rpm range and
motorcycle can be operated at normal highway
speeds. Avoid overheating or putting any hard
strain on the engine: no drag racing, dyno runs,
excessive speed, trailer towing or sidecar
operation.
5- After 1000 miles, verify Ignition and fuel system
settings and adjustments. Change the engine oil.
The break in process is complete.
13
CAUTION
