I just rebuilt my 5.0 and I'll be turning the key in a few days, but I'm kind of new to somethings like distributor install and timing and I don't know how this will work out on a engine that hasn't run yet.
Once I install the distributor, how do I know the initial spark is close enough to start it? I assume I can't really set initial timing with a timing light until after I have it running and burp the coolant/air and make sure I don't have fuel leaks and stuff like that.....so my question...If I drop in the distributor how do I know I'm close enough to idle for initial start up?
Running a rebuilt engine for the first time I assume I'll need to follow these items of concern in order after I turn the key (correct my priorities if I don't have this right):
1. Do I idle, or do I need to hold up to a certain RPM to help set the rings initially? If yes, what RPM and how long?
2. Burp the coolant of air as the engine warms up
3. Look for puddles or smell of leaking fluids such as gas or coolant
4. After all these steps I assume I could then set initial timing when the engine is warm, not leaking, and idling- right?
5. After all the above steps, test drive the car but do not exceed 3000 rpm for the first 500 miles
Comments anyone? need a seasoned advice for initial start up on a fresh engine.