Millington Engine Servicing and Running Guidelines

This strict series of guidelines and instructions are to assist in maintaining the overall life of the engine. 

It is highly recommended that you read all of these guidelines when using a Millington engine. 

If the guidelines are not followed the engine can suffer. Post seasonal analysis will show if an engine has been neglected or mistreated in one way or another. This can be seen on some of the engines internal components. Such as in the certain manner the component has been marked or fatigued. Data logging and the engine histograms can also show unacceptable temperatures, pressures and sensor values.

Engine starting and running

• When the engine is started from cold, make sure to run the engine on a 'fast idle' (1600-2000RPM) paying attention to the oil pressure, fuel pressure, etc.
• Run the engine in gently under light load, keeping the engine revolutions under 2,800 RPM until oil temp is at least 40°C. Stay bellow 4,200 RPM until oil temp is at least 50°C. Then keep under 6,500 RPM until oil temp is at least 60°C.
• The engine should only be driven hard if the water temperature is above 50°C and the oil temperature is above 60°C. The oil temperature should never be run continuously over 110°C (Although modern oils will run at higher temperatures we do not advocate it).
• Check that the water temperature stays around 60°C-80°C. Once the water temperature has reached 72°C the thermostat will open. Do not run the engine if the water temperature exceeds 100°C.
• It is recommended that the air filter is serviced after every event, although this greatly depends on the operating conditions. It more extreme climates the air filter should be serviced throughout the event. ITG filters do supply an extra outer section for these conditions.
• Do not exceed 40°C air temperature under high levels of load for long periods of time. (For best performance less than 20°C). 
• Check engine oil level every time the engine is used by revving the engine to 3000RPM for 15 seconds, switch off and check tank immediately.
• Never let the dry sump tank level drop below 2/3s full as this can effect the deaeration of the oil and will reduce the life of the engine. Do not over rev the engine regularly. The engine rev limit is pre-set although occasional, harsh down-changes can over shoot the limit. If the gear ratios in the gearbox and differential are set correctly the engine should not have to be held at the limit of its rev range for a long period of time. 

Post engine running checks

• After using the engine, check for coolant leaks from any of the pipes, fittings, sensors, radiators or header tanks.
• Check that the heat from the engine or exhaust manifold is not raising the temperature of any of the vital components when running. 
• Check the oil level in the tank. Ensure that it is full before using again .Check the condition of the oil and make sure the engine is not breathing heavily out of any of the breathers. Light smoke out of the breathers can be normal. To Check engine oil, rev the engine to 3000RPM for 15 seconds, switch off and check tank immediately. Change the oil on a regular basis.      We recommend a high quality oil such as Morris Oils 'Multivis MLR 10W-50' (Previously X-RPM Competition 10W-50)                   https://www.morrislubricants.co.uk/
• Check fuel fittings for leaks.
• Check that none of the wiring loom, plug leads or throttle cables have been rubbing or snagging.