Hey guys happy new year! Quick question. I’m rebuilding a lq9 for my firebird and was wondering if once the engine is in the car if I should run it or wait until I have the rest of my drive train sorted so I can actually drive it once i get it running. The car won’t be able to drive for probably 6 months or so after the engine is in due to budget constraints. Thanks in advance.

 

I'd get it running first, just in case there are any issues to attend to ( leaks, etc. ). You don't want to find out you have a major oil leak driving down the road, you know? I've always broke my engines in sitting in place.

 

What’s your procedure for break in if you don’t mind me asking ?

 

Latest-greatest-proper-engine-break-procedure is an interesting thread about break in.

Engine-break-theory

 

Awesome thank you sir

 

The nice thing about LS engines is roller cams/rockers. I disconnect the fuel pump relay and crank the engine to get oil pressure. Then just start it. If you have everything hooked up correctly you will be shocked how quickly it starts.
You didn't say what the details on the trans are but if its a new auto before firing the engine add 6-7 quarts before the first start and after starting add as needed.
I run mine for a couple of minutes then shut it down to check for leaks. I always have the car up in the air on jack stands so things are easier to see.
As said above get it temp. Check coolant level. Change oil and filter. I get the fuel pressure checker from Oreilly's to check fuel pressure.
Still up in the air I run it shortly thru the gears auto and or manual trans.
Good luck.

 

Thank you! I’ll be running a 5 speed manual but won’t have that for a while.