Ok.. in the middle of a D16Y8 overhaul (1998 Civic EX.. 243,500mi). I'm changing piston rings and rod bearings (and yes both can be done with the engine in the car.. also did a D15B2 the same way about 10 years ago )

What's the best way to break in the rings? I was under the impression that idling should be kept to a minimum.. and that the engine should be put under a load as soon as possible and basically to "drive it like I stole it" for the first 500mi.

But then I found a CAUTION in the Honda Service Manual (it's a Honda book.. not Chiltons or Haynes) that says if you replace the bearings the engine needs to idle up to operating temp.. then for another 15 minutes after that. I understand D16Y8s are good at spinning bearings.. obviously I want to avoid that, but I also want to make sure the rings get a good seat.

What has been your experience?

Thanks all,

Curtis

 

I rebuilt my d15b2 almost 3 years ago, I broke in the rings by letting it idle for ~10 min just to check for leaks/problems, then I went almost to redline then let it deccel in gear, then slowly go back up and let it deccel in gear. I think the main thing is to let it deccel in gear

 

Thanks for the advice.. that should be a piece of cake for me lol since I decel in gear as much as I can anyway. :-)

I take it you had no problems after that?