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1982 12a Rebuild Break In

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Old 11-14-23, 12:27 PM
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1982 12a Rebuild Break In

Okay, so I am rebuilding my '82 12a. I have new housings on the way, but I am reusing the stock rotors with new seals.

My question is, how should I approach breaking the engine in?
What oil should be used for breaking in?
Is a break in period needed, particularly with the new housings? Just the housings and seals are new. Irons, rotors and e-shaft are the same.
What things should I watch for after first start up?
​​​​​​
I know the standard break in procedures closely apply. Don't hammer it too hard, basically just let it stretch it's legs. Earlier oil changes, etc.

Any tips for mid and post rebuild and beyond would be amazing!
Old 11-14-23, 04:18 PM
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well, my first question is where did you get NEW 12A rotor housings from? if they're simply new to you, then you're probably good to go.

as far as the break-in goes, the universal point of agreement is you need to take it easy for a few hundred miles. however, one school of thought says since you didn't use new bearings, then you don't a long break-in, if at all. the other school of thought suggests anything between 500 and 1000 miles, depending on who's method you use.

as a sidenote, you'll probably want to confirm your MOP is working and supplying adequate amounts of oil. if you're not particularly a premix kind of guy, it might not hurt to do it a little until you're done with break-in - just to be sure.
Old 11-14-23, 05:17 PM
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If you do have brand new 12A housings, use brand new corner seals. And for a little bit more cost, new rotor bearings.
Old 11-15-23, 11:32 AM
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Originally Posted by diabolical1
well, my first question is where did you get NEW 12A rotor housings from? if they're simply new to you, then you're probably good to go.

as far as the break-in goes, the universal point of agreement is you need to take it easy for a few hundred miles. however, one school of thought says since you didn't use new bearings, then you don't a long break-in, if at all. the other school of thought suggests anything between 500 and 1000 miles, depending on who's method you use.

as a sidenote, you'll probably want to confirm your MOP is working and supplying adequate amounts of oil. if you're not particularly a premix kind of guy, it might not hurt to do it a little until you're done with break-in - just to be sure.
Thanks for the reply.
The housings are brand new cut down from GSL-SE 13b Housings. MOP is working, but I did plan on premixing as a little supplement anyway. The previous owner did as well.
I have not begun the process yet, so that's why I'm asking everything now. I actually haven't even received the housings yet. So, barely even started the rebuild!
Thanks for the tips.
Old 11-15-23, 11:35 AM
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Originally Posted by KansasCityREPU
If you do have brand new 12A housings, use brand new corner seals. And for a little bit more cost, new rotor bearings.
I've got a master rebuild kit coming, which will include new corner seals, apex seals, side seals, pretty much most seals and gaskets for the engine. I saw a thing saying you shouldn't change the bearings, as long as you didn't see any odd wear on them, which I didn't. What's your opinion on changing them out?
Old 11-16-23, 08:00 AM
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Originally Posted by MrMinerMan50
I've got a master rebuild kit coming, which will include new corner seals, apex seals, side seals, pretty much most seals and gaskets for the engine. I saw a thing saying you shouldn't change the bearings, as long as you didn't see any odd wear on them, which I didn't. What's your opinion on changing them out?
If there isn't any copper then you are good. Some copper is ok though.
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