hey guys, i just rebuilt my 350 and i'm just about ready to fire it up but i need a little advice/tips, first of all, i have the engine on a stand right now, is it ok to start it on the stand? and also if you guys could give me a little advice as far as what to look for or keep an eye on when starting the engine for the first time i'd appreciate it a lot! oh and one other thing, if anyone happens to look at this and is from nys would you happen to know what the exhaust regulations are for a 79 camaro, i've looked it up online and all it says is that there are no emissions testing but i'm just wondering if i have to run cats on my exhaust setup, thanks again guys! i look forward to your feedback!
-andrew

 

I wouldn't ever start an engine on an engine stand! Numerous issues, but first and foremost it's just too dangerous! Now if you have a engine stand designed for running and testing engines, which is bolted solid to the floor, that's fine.
You also need to have a radiator, and fuel hooked up, and exhaust so you can properly run the engine for the required cam break in. You need to get everything adjusted, then run the engine at the reccommended breakin speed and time. Usually that's around 2,000 rpm's for about 20 minutes, but check the cam maker's guidelines.
I'd drop it in the car and run it. At least that's the way I've always done them.

 

alright thanks....i wasnt too sure about the engine stand so i figured i would ask, i have a wooden pallet that i built up and i use to put engines on, the engines fit real snug in it nd it sits right on the ground so i'm thinking i'll probably go that route, the reason why i'm starting it before i put it in the car is just to make sure everything is working properly because it's a lot easier to work on out of the car, but thanks again for the help!