New engine break-in questions

[caps]

I am picking up my 01' Z06 in Bowling Green on the 7th of May and plan on driving it back to Wisconsin, can anyone advise me on how to ensure a proper engine break-in is performed? I am certain they can answer the question when I pick it up, but would like to plan my return trip accordingly.

Thanks in advance for the feedback!

P.S. Approximate trip length is 500 miles.

[Tom Bryant]

caps,

The only proper way that I can think of would be to drop it off at my place on your way back behind the chedder curtain. I will return it to you in late Sept. completely and properly broken in. :J

Other than that, I believe that engines are run it at the factory and shipped with synthetic oil in them. You should be able to drive in a normal manner from the start . I would avoid getting the engine hot (above normal operating temps) and sustained high speeds such as 70mph interstates for hours at a time. Might be a good time to explore some of the more senic roads through KY and IN and IL.

BTW what color?
Tom

[Rob]

Caps,

I believe that proper engine break-in procedures should be listed in your owner's manual which will come with the car.

[caps]

Thanks for the reply. I had entertained the idea of an alternate route, just so I could vary RPM and engine load. Was trying to figure how long it would take to get back to WI., interstate will take much less time, not that I want to get back home soon.

Caps

[Hib Halverson]

No inconvenient break-in procedure is necessary.

For the first 500 miles, I wouldn't run the engine to red line rpm though I wouldn't "baby" it, either. I'd work up to red line by shifting at 4500 then 5000 and finally 6000. After 500 miles, I'd run it hard. Between 500 and 2000 miles you ought to notice a small change/improvement in performance as the engine fully breaks-in.

At 500 miles, I'd change the oil filter. At 1000 miles I'd drain the 5W/30 and change the oil to either Mobil 1 or Red Line 10W30, then adopt the factory-recommended drain interval of 15,000 miles or annually. At the same time I'd switch to the ACDelco Ultra Gard gold filter and change it every 5000 miles.

[caps]

Thanks for the reply! I was pretty close on my assumptions on break in, but appreciate all the advice, as I certianly would not want to break her in any less than optimal. I look forward to the ride home, just hope the troopers are not looking as forward to it as I am. :)

Have a great week!

Caps

[Rob]

Caps,

I'm jealous.....that would be an awesome opportunity to be able to drive a brand new Z06 home. Good luck and keep us posted!