Thread: Break in oil

First, anyone saying that you need to flush to switch to synthetic is about 30 years out of date. There used to be an issue back in the 70s, but not anymore.

Second, you don't have to worry about protecting a flat tappet cam, because you don't have one, it's hydraulic roller. I'm not going to get into the whole ZDDP debate. One side says the high ZDDP levels were really only useful as an anti-oxidant with modern engines, others say that's it's better for engine protection. I've never seen any hard data, so the only answers you'll probably get are going to be opinions.

Thank you, but are there not other areas in an engine that could benefit from the ZDDP? (Provided you believe in its ability to act as a protectant)

I have read a study that was put out by Shell regarding their Rotella with ZDDP (it seems that some hobbyists run the Rotella diesel oil in their cars for improved performance) which showed an 0.7 to 1.6 % improvement in fuel economy. That seems insignificant, but what I gather is that an improved fuel economy means less friction which in turn means less heat. Also less soot in the oil prevents the oil from thickening prematurely thus extending the usable life of the oil in the engine. It is also better for cold weather performance and here in Calgary it is not uncommon to have spells of -20 to -30 throughout the winter months.

Please correct me if I am incorrect, because like I said, I am a noob to all of this.

EDIT** Thanks UR LOSN. I understand that break in oil is for new engines. I was only curious because of its ZDDP properties possibly helping prolong the life of the engine.