Max wait time for install after engine build?

[ARAMP1]

Okay, I'm building an engine for my truck, but I really can't (don't want) to install it until the weather is warmer in a few months. What are some things to think about for a new engine that has been sitting for 4-6 months? How long is the assembly lube good for? I'm guessing I'm not the first one who has come across this.

 

[kgblazerfive]

Forever to a point, if its not in the weather I would think a long time. Just run the oil pump with a primer before you store it and you should be fine.

 

[RedBrute]

In addition to the above I'd say back the rocker nuts off so all valves are closed and none of the springs are compressed. Should be good for quite a while.

 

[reddog64]

If it's going to sit for 4-6 months, do what Redbrute said, leave the rockers loose...
Take up the block to keep crap out...

I might even shoot a little oil in the cylindars...

 

[DEMON44]

install the pistons and rings with STP..........it'll keep for a long time.

 

[vortec]

In addition to the above I'd say back the rocker nuts off so all valves are closed and none of the springs are compressed. Should be good for quite a while.

i left mine sitting the garage for a few months for the exact same reason. i kept it covered with plastic to keep dust out. and turned the rotating assembly from time to time for the sake of the springs and to make sure there was a film of oil on everything inside. backing the nuts off might be better than my way for the springs, but i haven't had any problems. not yet, anyway.

 

[blazin_blazer]

my local engine guru told me to use assembly lube on block side bearing where the oil hole comes in and white lithium on caps, i did, sat for 9 months...primed it and no probs...but condition motor for hibernation like said already....prime it coming out of hibernation, not b4 sit up

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

In addition to the above I'd say back the rocker nuts off so all valves are closed and none of the springs are compressed. Should be good for quite a while.

So 1/3-1/2 of the valve springs don't stay compressed all the time on an assembled motor in a truck



If you keep oil on the cylinder walls (i.e. put some oil down each cylinder and crank the motor over a couple times without spark plugs installed) the motor will pretty much last forever. Keep the rust away from bare steel and you'll be good.