revzalot,

The conrod replacement after breakin is interesting. I can agree with both sides of the fence, but the best bet is to check the conrod after every event.

That being said my experience is limited to Novarossi based engines. I haven't seen a need to change the conrod after breakin yet. The WOT ( wide open throttle ) technique also seems to be better for conrods...."seems".

An easy test for blatent wear is to open the back case and pour some after-run oil where the conrod connects to the crack and turn it over s-l-o-w-l-y. If you see "bubbles" then its time to change.

If you make it to a gallon of fuel and still see nothing then you can change for as a precaution.

If your a nut (in a positive way) and have accurate calipers you can take readings of the crank and conrod when new and go from there also.

I suggest a somewhat accurate logbook to document the usage you are putting on the engine. This will help with regular maintenence if you have more than one engine sharing the same fuel container.

You will hear a million different answers to the same question here. And most of them might even be correct. Just use the one that is the easiest and makes most sense to you.

I like Cyruls because its tried and tested by many people with no issues. To many people breaking in an engine at WOT seems a little...insane!! But in reality you are controling the maximum RPM with the fuel load...so it isnt a runaway screaming engine.

The one think that still makes me cringe is people who sit theor car on a starter box and let it idle...what a waste. That is the worst thing you can do to your new expensive motor..but hey its your $$$ and Cyruls advice is free...

If you ever get the chance to meet Cyrul (Go to the Toledo track at a big event) you will see he is a great guy...

All the best to you guys and good luck with the hobby.

John