Replacing engine at 98,500 miles in an 04 D2. Looking for opinions on initial startup procedure...engine just cleared customs today!

Will be fitting new front cover, h2o pump, all sensors, motor mounts, 180 thermostat, wires, coil packs, heavy duty fan clutch, tensioner, pulleys, water temp and oil pressure gauges. All of this in hopes of minimizing any reason to dive back into engine for awhile.

Frida Turner emailed me this advice "Once installed don’t be too nice to the engine to ensure the piston rings bed in correctly, thus avoiding oil consumption. Use the gears, no idling and make the engine work"

AB says pour 1/2 cup oil into upper oil cooler port and crank in intervals without plugs to build pressure. 1800-2000 rpm for 20 mins to break in cam and lifters, then test drive. After one hour change oil and change again after 200-300 miles.

Planning on using Rotella 15-w40 for break in as well as for the life of the engine.

What worked well for those who have started a freshly rebuilt 4.0 or 4.6?