After engine break in?

[wage92]

What do you guys normally do after breaking in a flat tappet engine. I mean after the whole 20 minutes around 2-3k. I was thinking change the oil filter, and run some regular oil through it for some time and then do another oil change and drive it easy for 1000-1500 miles. Anyone have anything against this, or a better way?

 

[big reaper]

I normally change oil and filter. Then change again after 1000 miles. After the 1000 mile change I normally run synthetic oil.

 

[CGT80]

Add something like ZDDPlus to your oil, if you are not running a race oil that has zddp. Your cam requires it, but new cars run roller cams and the zddp is no longer needed, if you didn't already know that.

I have run my engines for 500 miles on the break in oil. I think I recall the directions for my gm goodwrench engine, stating 500 miles to first change.

 

[wage92]

so its a good idea to run a zinc additive with every oil change?

Ive been planning on using valvoline vr1 oil, has zinc in it but not as much as the race oil.

 

[big reaper]

I always add compcams breakin lube with every oil change.

 

[blazer74]

Cheap insurance run the zinc each oil change.

 

[CGT80]

so its a good idea to run a zinc additive with every oil change?

Ive been planning on using valvoline vr1 oil, has zinc in it but not as much as the race oil.

Their web site says it is a race oil and has enough zinc for flat tappet engines. You might be OK without adding ZDDPlus. I have heard that you don't want too much zinc, but not enough zinc can definitely wear out the cam faster. Some people reported signs of wear within a few hundred miles. It also depends on the hardness of the cam and lifters, among other things. I run castrol or similar oil that is for modern vehicles and then add the zddplus.

My engine is going back into my truck with a roller cam and roller rockers, but I may still run the additive just for insurance. I still have to ask my engine guy about whether or not it needs it with a roller valve train.