Ariel Owners Motorcycle Club

Hi all,
After lying in a hedge for who knows how many years I have completely re-built my 350 NH. Now it's nearly time for it's first start up. Is there anything special I need to do before the start up? I have primed the oil pump.
Many thanks
T

In my book, kick it over repeatedly (using the decompressor) until you see oil returning to the tank.

SG

Simon.Gardiner wrote: Sun Mar 22, 2026 1:38 pm In my book, kick it over repeatedly (using the decompressor) until you see oil returning to the tank.

SG

I also put some oil into both rocker boxes and let it drain down the pushrod tubes, so the cams don't start up dry.

How many miles do you folks feel it needs to be ‘run in’ after a rebuild like this ?

Hello Kevin,
After my rebuild I took it gentle no high speed runs and no slogging in high gear up hill pop it down a gear just take it gentle and change the oil after about 500 miles and check the oil colour should be clean and check the plug colour after a few miles to make sure it's not running weak might get hot else.
When changing oil check all nuts and bolts and tappet settings and primary chain if new and the mag chain if you are really keen, Take care Clive.

A cup of engine oil in the front rocker box will look after the engine ok till you verify everything. Motors don't remove Much metal in even a 1000 Miles so have right Clearances first up to avoid dragging the Bore A freshly Honed bore will aid ring bedding and it's not advised to BABY a Motor for a long while , Rings won't suffer it the grooves are deep enough and the end gaps correct and you haven't broken any during Installation. Some rings have an UP side. Check on the Packet. Nev

Thanks for the replies fellas.
How soon does the oil begin to return back to the tank? I have been kicking and kicking but see no signs of any oil coming into the tank.
Any ideas please
Many thanks
T

Terry.C. wrote: Fri Mar 27, 2026 7:28 am Thanks for the replies fellas.
How soon does the oil begin to return back to the tank? I have been kicking and kicking but see no signs of any oil coming into the tank.
Any ideas please
Many thanks
T

It can take a while as there needs to be enough down in the sump for the scavenge to lift up, and it will only be a dribble as the scavenge has a higher capacity than the feed. I assume (sorry for teaching you to suck eggs) that you've removed the plug or are using the valve lifter? Plug out is better, but make sure spark plug is earthed.I usually find the oil starts to show quite a bit after your leg feels like it is dropping off!

Once you see oil appearing in the oil tank, put your finger over the oil return for a few more kicks.

This will drive oil up into the rockers and valve gear.

Thanks for all the good advice Guy,s
Regards
T