Cold start technique

[CHJ]

When starting my 350 for the first time in too many weeks today, it sounded horrendous for the first five seconds until the oil pressure/flow was up to normal. Is it wise to crank the engine over on the starter with the coil disconnected first for a few seconds or does it not really make any difference?

Chris

[wedg1e]

That's just because the hydraulic lifters have drained, so the pushrods have more clearance and there's something of a metal/metal interface until the lifters pump back up again.
Everything's case-hardened though so as long as it IS only a few seconds, it shouldn't materially affect the engine. Chances are that the camshaft will wear out before the lifters suffer, and of course you'd fit new lifters with the new cam, wouldn't you...

[GreenV8S]

Maybe that's all it is, but it isn't normal for these engines to clatter on startup and if it's something new then I'd suspect it's a problem. It might be as simple as the exhaust gasket blowing when it's cold.

[racingsnake]

I try to just flick it over without letting it catch a couple of times before letting it have a proper turn over - just to build a bit of pressure.
This seems to give a less tappety start.
Only seems needed if its been parked for a week or more.
Carefull not to flood it though bud...

[CHJ]

Thanks. It is only for a few seconds, so nothing too much to worry about.

Bloody scary when it first happens and its not expected though

[rev-erend]

Can't say mine does that .. maybe one benefit of solid lifters