I did a search and saw that there is no need for a break-in period for a new cam for the LT1. thats fine, and i can accept that as i dont know much about them and the reasoning made sense. however i was just wondering what you guys did when you installed a new cam and valvetrain. some people i hear go right out and abuse it, others i hear drive it and change the oil frequently. im just looking for little tips i suppose on what to do as this is something new to me.
thanks!
brian

 

Roller cams really don't require much of a break as does a completely rebuilt engine or as aflat tappet cam install.

To be on the safe side you can change the oil to 40w. When you start the engine keep the RPMs at varing RPMs but above 2k to ensure adequate oil pressure/lubrication. You can do this for 5-10 minutes. Change the oil and filter after a few hundred miles.

 

why the switch to 40W oil?? anyone else with cam break in/advice?
brian

 

Here is a section from the Comp Cams website on cam install procedures cam break in
I've never heard of anyone one recommending a multivisc oil for break in.

 

I noticed on the CompCam page that they recommend that for users of double-springs that you should break it in without the inner spring.

Anyone done this? Is it really necessary?

 

thanks don! i was going to use 10W30 dino oil then change it to 10W30 royal purple synthetic at 500 miles after an oil change or two. now it appears i should use a 10W40 for each if i understand correctly. am i correct don?
thanks for your help!
brian

 

pardon my ignorance, but whats the difference between an SE, SF, race oil, and multi-visc oil?
brian

 

Removing the inner sping allows the cam to brake in at lower sping pressures. With out the high pressures associated with both springs there is less chance of scoring the cam at start up.

Is it necessary? How much is your engine worth?

 

The Comp Cam info is at least fifteen years old - they talk about SF ratings on the oil. We are now at SL.
Also their info is for flat tappet cams, and our roller cams, regardless of spring pressure, require no break-in.
Multi-viscosity is an incorrect term used in place of "multi-grade", the correct term. All oils are "multi-viscosity" depending on the temperature they are measured at.
I would recommend using 5W-30 or 10W-30 and be done with it.

 

I would not recommend a 10w-40 multi visc oil. Use a quality single weight oil like Valvoline Racing 40w. I'm no expert on engine building or motor oils but I have heard and read some about this over the years and the advice is fairly constistent. You want maximum protection during a critical break-in period.

 

im still lost on all the oil terms can anyone help me out?
brian