Engine Break in: dumb alternator question

[tparker]

Probably a dumb question but thought I would ask. Could I get away with the 20 or so minutes of break in without the alternator? And should I use a battery charger instead?

Rational: As a software engineer, I have found the less moving parts the more stable things are. Not unique to software engineering of course, but less things to worry about if there are less things in play. I could hook up the Alt but I would hate to find out I have an issue in the electrical system half way through. The more I can eliminate during the break in, the less that can go wrong. Not sure if the battery will be strong enough. The battery is newish, I bought it last year and have occasionally charged it (my motorcycle has basically been sitting since covid started and is doing find with no charging and only a couple  short rides). I have an electronic system. I bought a no name knock off but may not use it. I also have an OLD mallory electronic ignition from at least 1990 but probably older.

Thoughts?

[Scooter]

If all you are running off a fully charged battery for the cam break in is the ignition, you'll probably be fine. That said... I'd hook the alternator up. Chances of it causing an issue are pretty slim and if it's inop. you run off the battery anyway.

My2c.

[Filthy Filbert]

will just the battery run the engine for 20 minutes?     yes

is there a need to run without the alternator?  no

The alternator will either work or it won't.   you'll have 3 possible outcomes if you leave the alternator hooked up.   

1) everything works as advertised.   no issue.  finish break in and then go enjoy your new powerplant.
2) the alternator will not charge the battery.  small issue.  finish break in and troubleshoot the charging system later.
3) the alternator will overcharge the battery.  small issue.  unhook the voltage regulator and effectively 'turn off' the alternator.  finish break in and troubleshoot the charging system later

[Rich G.]

The only thing the alt. does is keep the battery charged. No problem running without one as long as the battery is charged.

[tparker]

Thanks all. The question was less about should the Alt fail and not charge the battery, But if there is another issue in electrical wiring. I would hate for a short to take stuff out or start a fire while breaking in. The car has been sitting for 30 years and I tore it all down and fixed things, but there are still old wires. I would preferably like to deal with the engine, then the remaining electrical so I can focus on 1 thing. I'm probably being a little over kill on it, but I don't want things to go south as I am nearing the finish line. LOL

[Chryco Psycho]

I feel the same way , the less things running the better during break in as I want no reason to shut the engine off during the run .
I always disconnect the power steering for example , the alt is less critical IMO .

[tparker]

Yeah, ditching the power steering until after. Don't need some leak distracting things when I am already looking for oil, fuel, and water leaks.