Hello, as some of you know, I am going to be assembling my engine this week, and I was wondering what type of oil should I use to break it in with. I have heard Rotella 15w-40 Diesel oil is the best thing to use, but I have also heard that the Rotella oil has had the "makeover" and has lost the additive that makes it desireable to use. Is it true that you want more ZDDP? I was looking at Vavoline racing 30W oil, and it has an API rating of SL, and clearly states on the back that it has more ZDDP additive in it. Should I go with this or Rotella? Also, is there any special additives that I can or should put in the oil to help with the cam break in?

 

10w 30 ftw

 

I would suggest Valvoline VR-1 10W30. I don't know exactly when, but a lot of the diesel oils are going to be losing that ZDDP soon due to increased diesel emissions, so you're not going to be able to rely on them much longer.

The other option is to pick up a bottle of Comp Cams' engine oil break-in additive and use it with any other type of oil.

 

what ever you do dont use synthetic oil for break in. this oil isnt gonna be in long so dont go nutz, grab some 10w 30 as mentioned remember to prelube before initial fire up! dont skimp on the assembly lube either. light coating of oil on cylinder walls before piston install also. have fun!

 

1. brad penn break in oil for initial break in.

2. zddplus additive added to whichever oil you choose after that.