And by builders, I also presume that you tear down quite a few motors too...

Anyway, my question is about oil. I know that there's a separate forum just for oil, but it seems every attempt at a rational discussion turns into a territorial pissing match about brand loyalty and general superstition. So for Scott, Kirby, and the others here that build and rebuild engines on a regular basis, do you have any clear preferences on dino vs. synthetic, things to avoid, etc? I've always been of the belief that if you use the correct grade of a decent quality oil, and change it (with the filter, of course) often enough, you'll be fine. Anything to add to that? Thanks for your time and advice,

GO!

 

we dont run sythetic on a new build till it get 1000 miles on it.is that really necessary? who knows with todays technoligy,but we`ve been doing that for 35+ years and never had a problem.as far as brand goes,we use LUCAS dino & synthetic,but as long as oil is changed when its suppost to be,pretty much any brand oil is fine (with the exception of HD syn 3 and royal purple,wont use either one)

 

We've used Spectro Heavy Duty for about 20 years now(same oil that S&S has in their blue bottle now) in our fresh engines, and reccomend that until about 750-100 miles.
After that, Red Line, Mobil 1, etc, or any top grade synthetic if you'd like.
We too, do not care for Royal Purple though.
Scott

 

Thanks guys, that was exactly what I was looking for!!!

Stych

 

You do not want to use a synthetic oil as a break-in oil because the rings may not seat themselves properly and other components may not be able to "wear-in" as they should. After 500-1000 mi. Yes any top shelf synthetic will suffice. Schaffers products have always been a good choice.JMO

 

Any issues with synthetics & lifters sliding vs rolling?

 

None we are aware of.
Scott

 

this went around with the crank rollers sliding instead or rolling when synthetic oils first became popular,never seen any proof or effects of it.