I bring the engine over to TDC #1 then back 10 before. I take a magic marker and draw a line at the bottom of the cap from the #1 to the dist housing. I'll turn my housing to best line up with the rotor (10 degrees advance).

Double check the firing order.

Make sure all clamps are installed on water lines and fuel.

Check oil level and trans fluid.

Check belts.

Don't completly fill radiator if you have a thermost installed. What will happen is you have an air lock and when the thremost opens the cap if removed will blow or will push fluid out of the rad.

Have a fire extingusher handy

Monitor for oil leaks when ya get her going. You can deal with water.

Block the wheels!

Keep face away from carb. Don't wear oil soaked shirt. Keep rags away from fenders.

Eh, I guess that about it, just be safe and take your time. If it doesent run long the first time your still OK.

My 2c,
Les

I'd add

Have a timing light ready and hooked up. Shoot the light during cranking and have the distributor just loose enough to turn by hand but not so loose it will turn by itself. There is usually time during the intial cranking but before it fires to get an idea where your initial timing is set. Make any rough adjustments right away and finalize once it's running.

Prime the motor very well before putting in the dist.

I did my first cam break in by myself.it was alot more stress then the second time when I had someone to help me. See if there is anyone that could stop by if for nothing else to sit in the car and watch the gauges and crack it over for you.

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SCOOP

oddly obsessed with big scoops on little Mustangs

65 coupe,351w,C4,Big Boss 429 hood scoop,8" 3.40 TracLoc.

My Pics

I'd only add that you fill the carb with fuel prior to cranking it. You can use a small funnel to fill the carb via the primary bowl vent. Got a bottle of limited slip additive? The cap/fill chingis works great for a small funnel

I have access to big industrial fans, so I like to park a big fan in front of the car while doing your run-in. It helps airflow to the radiator and clears the work area of exhaust fumes.

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1965 GT coupe, 333ci aluminum headed/solid cammed stroker, four speed, 3.70:1 9"