Engine break-in???

I have a friend who is in the process of finishing one of the Rutan design
pushers. He wants to break in the engine on the ground, on the aircraft,
before first flight.

I don't see how he can accomplish this without a test club and shrouding to
direct the airflow over the engine.
In fact I'd be leery of much ground running at all with the cowling off.

Anyone have any ideas?

I've broken in engines on a proven airplane, but nothing like this.

Thanks for any input.

Cheers:

Paul
N1431A
KPLU