Re: 1949 288 Straight 8 Break In

Posted by Fish'n Jim On 2022/6/16 10:00:17

Does it have a partial oil filter or none?

Since you didn't offer what bearings & oil used, clearances, milling work that was done, prep lube used, etc., I think that ~20+ minutes of running isn't enough to require a break in oil change. That's not many revolutions. I'd suggest the 500 mile mark. Maybe less if no oil filter.
If filter, I'd check the reservoir and see if it's clear or has that grey cast of new metal before I'd dump it. Definitely don't want that abrasive traveling around in the motor. And if it settles out in the pan, then it can dislodge and bite at any time.
I'd monitor it for noise, oil appearance, leaks, etc for the first 6 months.
Frankly, I don't know of any bona-fide reports comparing engine life vs break-in procedure for any gasoline motor. It's just something that came about from the manufacturers from engine testing and I guess to minimize warranty claims. Hey, you didn't follow the break in procedure, not covered...
Wiebull distribution and reliability data says that faults occur more in the beginning and near the end. So there is some logic to being careful with "breaking" in. You really don't want it to break, more so operate properly.