When it comes to your high-performance car, there is no detail too small. Everything must be in perfect working order every time you drive. High-performance cars have a reputation for being finicky and over-engineered. But what makes them so special? It’s the fact that they are masterpieces of engineering and performance. They have been designed to perform optimally under certain conditions, such as acceleration, braking, cornering, and handling.
This article will explain why you need break-in oil for your high-performance car.
What is Break-in Oil?
Break-in oil is motor oil that helps reduce engine wear, especially during new parts break-in. It has a higher viscosity than conventional motor oil. This allows it to fill and lubricate the engine better.
Break-in oils typically have high levels of zinc, phosphorus and sulfur. These additives help reduce friction and increase wear protection. The difference in friction between conventional oil and break-in oils is huge!
Zinc plays an important role in protecting an engine’s internal components during the break-in process. Without enough zinc, engine wear can be severe during this period.
Phosphorus and the other break-in additives, helps reduce friction and wear. Only a small amount of phosphorus is needed to lower friction significantly. Phosphorus also neutralizes acid deposits which can otherwise cause problems during break-in.
Sulfur has been around for a long time. It is used as the reducing agent in breaking down waterborne hydrocarbons (like oil) into their constituent elements (hydrogen and carbon).
Why Does Your High-Performance Car Need Break-in Oil?
Break-in oils are an essential part of the engine break-in process. When a new engine is first built, it doesn’t have any oil in it. There aren’t any contaminants from previous use that would lead to corrosion and increased wear. The factory engine oil fill level is set to prevent parts breakage and excessive wear during the initial startup period.
Break-in oils are formulated with special additives to help reduce friction and wear during the startup period of a new engine. Break-in oil has special additives that help protect the engine from excessive wear and corrosion during this period.
Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil for Break-in
Conventional oil is usually the preferred secondary oil for break-in. Synthetic oils, on the other hand, are not recommended.
This is because synthetic oils don’t lubricate as well as conventional oils. The zinc in conventional oil helps protect from corrosion during break-in. This is why synthetic oils aren’t recommended for break-in or regular use.
The problem with using synthetic oils for break-in is that it affects their long term performance and longevity. These engines have extended oil drain intervals which can cause wear problems after about 300,000 miles or so.
Conclusion
Break-in oil is a highly recommended part of a high-performance engine’s regular maintenance schedule. It can be used during the break-in period instead of break-in oil, but it is highly recommended to use in conjunction with regular oil.