The conversion's done & the bike runs. Below is the initial break-in procedure recommended by Jim Lewis at Zipper's. It's a little more detailed than other's I seen, but, makes sense to me -- I used it & all's fine so far.
Everything went pretty much as planned & it started right up after I first turned it over about 5-10 seconds with the plugs out. I really didn't notice much change in the exhaust noise, but it seems the bike actually runs smoother than before & stronger, as it should. I've just driven around the neighborhood & haven't had it over 3k or 40 mph. I'll take it out tomorrow for a longer ride. Thanks for all the input/info here.
The heat cycling process is as follows:
Start the engine in short stages. Perfect piston fit is a critical factor
for engine performance and long engine life. An incredible amount of heat
is generated between the rings, pistons and cylinders during initial
startup. It is at this point where clearances are the tightest and your
rings, pistons and cylinders will meet for the first time.
DO NOT ESTIMATE TIMES – USE A WATCH!!
1. 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th starts – Each of these starts should last only ten seconds each at 1250 – 1400 rpm, just above idle speed. After each start, shut the engine off and allow cooling to room temperature. Box or industrial type fans can be used to expedite the cooling process. Take your time with this. Your new parts need to get acquainted.
2. 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th starts - Again, start the engine and run for 15 –
20 seconds at 1250 – 1400 rpm, with time to cool to room temperature between each start.
3. 9th, 10th and 11th starts – Increase run times to 45 seconds, again at
1250 – 1400 rpm. Allow cooling to room temperature between runs, as before.
4. Next 2 runs – No more than 1-1/2 minutes each. Use the cooling fan
allowing the engine to cool to room temperature between each start.
These first few minutes of run time are critical to establish cylinder and piston wear patterns and to protect the rings from overheating. Remember – pistons don’t die, they are murdered!! The absolute worst thing you can do is to start a fresh engine and let it idle, while you kick back and watch it melt from the inside out.
During each successive cycle, check oil pressure to make sure proper
lubrication of the engine and pressurization of the lifters will occur.
Lifters may require two or three start cycles before pumping up completely.
In some extreme cases, lifters may not completely pump up until the
motorcycle has been ridden. Check to ensure oil is returning to the oil
tank.
J. Lewis
Tech Services, Zipper's Performance Products.
