Originally Posted By: GreeCguy
Originally Posted By: Cujet
Upon re-assembly, use engine oil to lube everything and use straight 30W non detergent oil for break in. It might seem like an old wives tale, but it's 100% necessary on aircraft engines. Lawn equipment is not that different... It simply works.
I've heard this as well and done it myself, but I never understood the reason why, (I was told to do it and did it). Can you please explain why it is necessary to use a non-detergent oil on break in?
First thing: I don't use ND oil for break in on my lawn equipment or my cars, motorcycles or other equipment. It's not necessary, period.
It is necessary in aircraft. As the cylinders are large and become fairly imprecise while hot. Getting rings to seat under such awful conditions requires all the tricks in the book. Including operation at high power settings, while monitoring temps. Those aircraft owners who "know better" can, and often do, end up with oil consumption issues that never resolve.
However, in this case, he has an issue with his air cooled OPE engine with oil getting past the rings. Clearly, his piston rings have not seated. The use of straight 30 oil, an aggressive enough hone coupled with brief periods of high load operation will ensure proper seating and proper service life.
I'm not making the claim it's 100% necessary. But, I hate doing projects over and over again. Hence the suggestion to ensure success.