Pre-first start final checks/questions

[MaxVmo]

Getting ready for the fist start next week and have some last minute questions.

I’m running a BPE 347 with Sniper. All indications for the electrical seem to point to correct function—gauges are operating and fuel pump operates through sniper wiring. I have initial fuel pressure on the regulator gauge. I will perform the pre-start for the engine per Blueprint i.e. pulling plugs/cranking etc. I’m using Blueprint’s break-in oil, and all other fluids besides transmission have been added.

1. What transmission fluid do most use for the Tremec?

2. Do I add coolant fluid to the radiator overflow tank?

3. I’ve done the initial Sniper setup. It asks for an idle rpm target and the manual suggests a range. What’s a good idle number?

4. Side pipes are at Ken Pike’s place in CA (I’m in AZ). Will absence of side pipes be a problem? I have the O2 sensor on the passenger side header.

5. I’d like to add a fire extinguisher to either the cabin or trunk. Recommendations are appreciated.

Thank you all for the help.

[CraigS]

1- ATF. hopefully others will be morer specific
2- Yes, 2/3 full
3- 800
4- Other than noise covering up any abnormal sounds, no.
5- Go to HD or L and buy the largest extinguisher they have appropriate for a car fire. Once through your first month or so, hang it on the wall of the garage.

[BRRT]

Tremec recommends:
1. Their fluid, HP-MTF
2. GM SyncroMesh fluid
3. Mobil1 Synthetic ATF

Without the sidepipes your O2 sensor may read extremely lean, causing the true mixture to be extremely rich. Not the best thing for a fresh engine.

[rich grsc]

You will have running issue without the side pipes on. It will run rich, too very rich as the O2 sensors will not get a correct rating due to reversion.

[egchewy79]

Are you able to reach out to your local cobra club to see if anyone has an unused side pipe that you can put on the PS for now?
Why are your pipes at Ken's? Do you plan on go karting for a while before final body/paint? This really lets you shake things down and fix them prior to everything being completed. Much more nerve-wracking working on a freshly painted car.
I used Redline ATF for my T5.
I also put a small extinguisher in the cabin on the part of the trans tunnel that slopes up to the rear wall.
I think others might put a larger one in the trunk.

[gbranham]

If you're running a TKO, your instruction manual came with a list of fluids that you must use if you don't want to void your warranty. Part numbers are listed in it. I bought mine from Amazon. GM part #88900333 Synchromesh.

Don't run it without the sidepipes, as mentioned above. Your Sniper won't love it.

800 seems like a little high for idle, but whatever.

When you do your first start, do it in the driveway, not the garage, in case you have an 'Unexpected Rapid Disassembly', or a fire.

Prime oil pump. Run drill counterclockwise, not clockwise.

[MaxVmo]

They were up there for the initial fit/cutting the body. I was told to just leave them there but now seems like that was a mistake…I’ll see what I can do. Body won’t be ready until at least February. No need for fouled plugs.

[Avalanche325]

2. Do I add coolant fluid to the radiator overflow tank? Yes. Halfway is good.

As already stated, do your first start outside. Have someone on standby with the fire extinguisher THAT KNOWS HOW TO USE IT. It's shocking how many people don't.
Prime your oil pump if the engine hasn't already been run.
Immediately check for oil pressure, then leaks in the engine bay and then under the car.

[MaxVmo]

Aim at the base of the fire and sweep from side to side! Thanks for the responses, I appreciate them.

[Windsor]

I second the "biggest you can find." Something bigger than 5lb for sure.

I think it's near-criminal that they sell a 2.something pound bottle. That's barely better than sneezing on the flames.

Before paying extra for "rechargeable", find a place that'll recharge it.

[egchewy79]

Yes, have someone else help spot for leaks (coolant, fuel, oil, etc), have an extinguisher, and also video your response. Nothing like seeing a face light up with a successful first start.

[Railroad]

Fortunately for me, I let the fuel pressure build and sit, momentarily before starting the engine. My great friend and helper on my build noticed a fuel leak at 2 of the coupling along the frame rail.
My advice, let it sit long enough to notice such, less stress.
good luck,