I am getting close to starting my 454 (468) BBC with a new Reed cam and lifters. I have the correct Lunati springs, but for the initial (30 min.) break in, I would like to run a set of springs with a VERY light spring pressure. The cam has a lift of .550 / .560. I don't want to become one of the guys on this site with a horror story about wipeing out my new cam! I really appreciate any suggestions for a break-in with "NO DRAMA"!!!! MUCH Thanks, Pat

Pat; Are they double springs?If so you could remove the inners for cam break in.If the cam was properly lubed,and the seat pressure is 130 lbs. or so,you should be fine.Set your harmonic damper at 12-14 degrees with the rotor pointing at no. 1 tower on distributor,prime the primary carburetor bowl,pump it a few times,and it should fire right up within a few cranks.It also helps to ensure there is fuel at the pump,unless you're using an electric.If mechanical,humble yourself,and crawl under the car,give the inlet line a quick suck(have a can or pan ready).When you get fuel,cap it with your thumb,and put it back on the pump nipple(sexy :D ).2000-2500 rpm,give or take a couple hundred,for 15-20 minutes,is sufficient for the break in.I've broken in quite a few,and have never had a major problem,but I am still nervous on each and every one!Any further questions,feel free to ask. Steve

Steve, The springs I have put 120# of pressure on the seat. They are a single spring. Not sure if this spring was light enough for the break-in as well as regular use. Thanks much, Pat

Pat,

The big question is what springs do you have? Any hydraulic only needs a good single spring w/ damper. If you have a low pressure dual spring I am sure you can use them, but if I remember right, the cam only called for about 110 - 120 seat and 280 - 300 open. My guess is that cam should have a nice rump to it in a 468.

Never mind, I was not quick enough, didn't realize you were online. 120 seat single spring is just right. I am assuming you used the black lube and something like Castrol 30WT HD oil?

Incidentally, I wound up putting the Crane hydraulic that came in the car back in. It has a wider lobe center and a less agressive lobe design than the one you are using. With the smaller motor and wanting to run the AC that Reed would be just over the edge for me. But if I am right, in a 468, that combo should come on like a bucket of wasps when you put your foot into it.

Just to let you know I sent the intake out via UPS yesterday. I am assuming your plan is to run the Weiand on the 468 with that cam?