First start

[John T]

I think it's about time to start the motor for the first time. This may have already been addressed, but I am not good at the search procedure. However, here it goes. Is there a check list for the first start? I like to be sure that I have touched all the bases before I turn the key for the first time. Thanks in advance for your help.

[Fixit]

Lesse...

- ALL fluids filled to recommended capacity (Oil, Coolant, PS fluid, Trans oil/fluid)
- Extra/backups of the above (to top off if needed after it starts)
- Appropriate funnels for above
- Rags or paper towel
- At least 3 or so gallons of fuel in the tank
- Fully charged battery
- Tools at hand to adjust carb/idle
- Designated Videographer (You'll be too busy checking things and grinning like the village idiot to take good pictures!)
- Another set of eyes/ears/helper
- Drip pan (just in case something leaks)

Safety:
- A clean & clear path all the way around the car
- Fire Extinguisher
- A working clutch/neutral safety switch
- Ensure your carb/throttle linkage works PERFECTLY, no sticking or binding, and has a return spring.

1st Start Procedure:
Fill us in again on your engine package...

[GoDadGo]

What Fixit Said, But Push The Car Outside If Possible!
They tend to spit and snort a bit until you get the timing and fuel delivery right.

[Ducky2009]

As Fixit said.

If you have power steering, read the instructions again. It says, and I DO NOT QUOTE (not word for word, lol) .... jack the front of the car up, turn the wheels in both directions, stop to stop so the fluid circulates. Made sure the reservoir does not go dry.

PS --- TOO FUNNY, but true.---- Designated Videographer (You'll be too busy checking things and grinning like the village idiot to take good pictures!)

[John T]

1st Start Procedure:
Fill us in again on your engine package..

Mike Forte Parts Connection built 306 carbureted. Power steering and hydraulic clutch. Tremec too 5 speed.

[Fixit]

With a carb'd engine:...

- Disconnect the coil and crank it over awhile until the oil pressure gauge moves off the peg.
- Blip the throttle and see if fuel squirts from the accelerator nozzles (this'll ensure the bowls are full and fuel is up to the front of the car)
- Reconnect the coil/ignition

Get ready for some noise.

Have all things at the ready and turn the key. When it fires, do what you can to keep it running.
- Check the oil pressure... should be above 20psi... probably around 60+.
- Keep it running and vary the RPM between idle and 2500 for a few minutes.
- Check for leaks... over, under, everywhere
It should be warming up by now... check the temp gauge.

- Get the idle and mixtures set so it'll idle around 900 to 1100 RPM
- Check Coolant and PS Fluid levels - add if needed.
- Work the air out of the PS by slowly going lock to lock. Check the fluid level often.
- Let it sit and idle, take stupid grinning pictures, check for leaks again...
- Let it get to temp/HOT... cooling fan should kick on, etc... (A new/fresh engine will run hot for awhile. Temp might bump 95 to 100C.)
- Pop the top off your beverage of choice and...

[John T]

Finally got my build started. It's great to make this milestone. However, I am having difficulty adjusting the clutch in order to be able to shift the car into gear. My next step is to try to adjust the slave cylinder. Hopefully I can report success this week end.