Synthetic Vs petroleum oil for engine break in ?

[GManBart]

That is why I said it shouldn't be a problem unless they made the motor differently. Kohler must be making them different but even now I doubt that would cause an issue. Yes you should follow the manual but if they messed up and started with synthetic I wouldn't lose any sleep over it. From the original post if they were worried that the synthetic caused improper break in, then all you need to do is run a compression test. Losing as much oil as they said they were losing, it should have very little compression because it isn't making a good seal at all.

As far as documentation you would be surprised at how much large companies cut and paste from their old documents to save having to start from scratch.

I didn't say he should lose sleep over it, I just said you can't make a blanket statement that it doesn't matter what oil you use for break in because of modern engine manufacturing methods. In many cases the manufacturers say it doesn't matter, but that doesn't mean it's always the case.

Deere has very specific oil requirements for engine break in and you have to use their specified oil called Break-In Plus d(I think it's API CC grade which is pretty old) or there are warranty implications. I'm pretty sure Deere's engines are made with all modern techniques and equipment, so it really just depends what company you're dealing with.

 

[cat fever]

I realize this is somewhat of an old thread.

I have a good friend who is a great mechanic and engine builder. He has always told me the same thing. Break the engine in with mineral based oil because it runs hotter and the rings seat better, then change to synthetic on the first oil change if you plan to use synthetic.