Verifying cam install. What needs to be back on before I test run?

[K04andmeth]

I have heard you can run without the radiator/coolant for like 10 seconds. Is that correct?
I need to verify the timing on my engine, and don't know if I need to button it up to the regular service position every time before verifying.

Any help is appreciated!

[cjt671]

I have heard you can run without the radiator/coolant for like 10 seconds. Is that correct?
I need to verify the timing on my engine, and don't know if I need to button it up to the regular service position every time before verifying.

Any help is appreciated!

You can run any car with out coolant/water for short periods. I don't know very many people who would recommend it but it won't harm much as long as the car doesn't over heat.. There is really no reason to run the car to verify.. I know it'll be easier to do though man.. Timing should have been verified before sealing the heads.. If cams are at TDC with the crank at TDC then you are in time.

Are your valve covers off?

[cjt671]

Also there isn't really room to be slightly out of time other than wear on chains, cams etc.. If you are off when timing the cams even by one tooth it will be pretty obvious.. After actually doing it, it's not as complicated or hard as some people on here make it seem..

[audacity]

i run all our cars without rad support and coolant for short periods even without the accesory belt no bipipes. but again test running is only a test if you didn't verify timing was correct, if you really think its out you should triple check again. all it takes is 1 revolution...

[julex]

^^ yup. All the time without front, coolant and bi-pipes (make sure maf is unplugged). Of couse make 1000000000000% sure you don't suck a towel into intake or anything stupid like that.

[redline380]

Yeah, you can run an engine with no coolant. Keep it less than a minute and nothing bad will happen.

However, if all you need to do is verify timing, why don't you just turn it over by hand a few time and make sure the timing marks still line up?