Thinking about Starting Engine

[john108]

Hi
My restoration is coming along to the point where I am thinking about trying to start the engine.
It hasn't been started since it came off the dyno.
I would like to ask a few questions but the first, for now,:

Is it wise to fill the radiator with plain water to check for leaks? Then replace the water with the proper coolant fluid?

Thank You
John

[gsmopar]

I don't think water only is necessary unless you're worried about something.  That's a lot of distilled water just to dump.  I guess you could fill, check, drain into a bucket to reuse.

[flyinlow]

Is the radiator installed? If not and you are just filling it with water for a leak check , good idea.

If the engine and cooling system are installed and you fill it with water for a test and then want to drain for a water/antifreeze mix , you may have pull the block drain plugs out to have enough room for the required antifreeze for 50/50 mix.  

[maxwellwedge]

Probably a good idea to prime the oil pump too.

[john108]

Thank you for the replies.
I may just risk not having a leak and put in the antifreeze.
I did a preliminary oil pump prime.  Oil flowed to the passenger side head but not driver.
I didn't rotate engine but plan on doing it again with rotation.
I have a plan that I am trying to do but at this time, I will need some help (after Covid).
John