Engine test stand - Trans hookup?

383Scampman said

I'm saying do not start an engine on an engine stand . #1 reason : it's not safe . #2 reason : in order to break in a cam , the engine must be above 2500 rpm for at least 20 minutes and vary speeds and not idle . This will knock over an engine stand . #3 reason: its not safe , especially a 512 Build an engine test stand with an empty 727 case and a torque converter with a ring gear . You can sell the test stand afterwards if you want . remember your life is in your hands .

Click to expand...

Brings up the point of terminology; by "engine stand" are you referring to the kind designed to roll the engine over to be tore apart and worked on or are you referring to a "engine run stand"? If you are thinking of trying to start the engine on a rotating engine stand, you need to lose that thought for a number of reasons not the least of which is that you cannot attaching a bell housing (needed to attach a starter). If you are talking about a run stand then by all means go for it. You can certainly make a stand or buy a stand. It doesnt have to be complicated; I've seen many engines at swap meets on home made run stands being fired up to show prospective buyers that they run. One of the simplest I have ever seen was a triangular cradle that bolted to each mounter mount and held the engine level, the engine has a AT trans on it and the owner could start it right up.