Starting and running engine from cold

[Noblebenn]

Hi.

I've recently heard two convincingly told but conflicting bits of advice on starting and running the speed 6 engine from cold (Standard but rebuilt 3.6 in this case but i'm sure it makes no difference)

One was to start the car and let it run for several mins to allow oil temps to pick up and the other was to start moving fairly quickly and to just drive like a grandma for a short while.

Personally I have always, i think with all cars, just started the engine, let revs etc settle then moved off and driven very conservatively for the oil temps etc to get up to spec.

From the point of view of what is best for the engine, anyone have any helpful thoughts or opinions?

[Zippee]

Your option is what I've always done. Helps all fluids warm through.

[twinreal]

I wouldn't start the cold engine and let it idle at under 1.000 rpm for a longer period. The oil pressure from cold seems high enough but the oil is thick and i doubt the pump will instantly bring it in every engine section at cold idle.
My procedure is:
After start immediately let it run at slightely over 1.000-1.200 rpm for a moment and then move. Don't rev up > 3.000 and don't demand too much torque until oil temp is 60 degrees. Full rev not under 75 - 80 degrees (depends on ambient temp /air stream, as the oil temp sensor is mounted in unfavorable position in the front) .

[ChazUwe]

I am a novice TVR'er but from what I have read (which is quite alot on here!) is to start the engine, hold the engine at 1500ish revs for about 10 seconds to get some oil around the engine and then drive off as soon as possible. Then ideally keeping below 2500 until oil temp is at around 60-65c. Some say you can gradually increase your revs before getting to 65c as per

http://www.mytuscan.co.uk/howdo_main.php#start

And I suspect that this is also ok, but for me I try and stick below 2500 revs until engine ready for action! I also understand it is bad to let the engine idle on your drive from cold, try and pull away as quickly as possible. Or to labour the engine at low revs in too high a gear is worse than revving it too much. Although I don't know the technical reason this is advised!

[Noblebenn]

Thanks, Seems everyone is of similar opinion.

[Sagi Badger]

The oil will actually get up to the cams even whilst turning over on the starter, takes a few seconds and it would most likely start before then anyway but it does generate enough pressure. Just do as you have been doing and keep fresh 0W 40 in it.

J