Red Line Engine Break-In Additive provides conventional motor oils with anti-wear additives like zinc and phosphorus (ZDDP) that are necessary to protect against premature camshaft and valvetrain wear. Conventional oils are mostly off-the-shelf non-synthetic (or synthetic blend) oils with an API of SM, SN, or higher. These oils lack the ZDDP levels that are so critical for proper seating and mating of new engine components, especially valve lifters and piston rings. While designed for optimal engine break-in, this additive can also be used for extra anti-wear protection if using an off-the-shelf oil.
Street Car Applications
If you don't use a dedicated break-in oil (Red Line, Driven, Joe Gibbs, etc) you're left with oil options that are not ideal for a proper break-in. We recommend a petroleum-based (non-synthetic) engine oil with Redline Engine Break-In Additive for the first 300-500 miles. Then another round of the same oil for 1,000-1,500 miles. And then a final switch to your oil of choice (which may not require the additive).
Break-in Additive can be added to street cars that use API-approved oils on a regular basis. To comply with tighter emissions standards, these oils lack the necessary ZDDP and other desired additives that increase protection and oil strength. We recommend half a bottle of Red Line Break-In Additive with every oil change if you are not using an oil containing a proper ZDDP anti-wear package such as Red Line.
Track/Race Applications
Use caution here. If you regularly track or race your car you are likely using a high-ZDDP oil already. Too much ZDDP can increase heat and wear and high levels are not recommended for catalytic converters. We recommend following the same break-in advice as above. For a track/race car this additive only makes sense if you're stuck using an off-the-shelf oil and you need the additional ZDDP and additive pack.
One 16oz bottle treats up to 12 quarts of motor oil, so in many cases one bottle can protect for 2 oil services. Note: the best way to use this is to pre-mix the additive with the oil. Pour a an ounce into each oil bottle and shake it to get a good mixture.
