New Truck Break-In

JCare · #1 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 12:58 AM

I have ordered an 08 F350 Lariat, V10, CC, LB, Dark Stone Grey and it should be built this week. Growing up, I remember my dad changing the oil after so many miles, not driving over 55mph for the first so many miles, and certain other "things".

How much of this is still true, and what are some things that I can do initially to insure this truck lasts me for many years and miles to come.

Thanks,
Jonathan

Monsta · #2 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 03:31 AM

Fredvon has a pretty good break in procedure. Although depending on who you talk to it's as varied as what brand of oil to use!

However...I cannot find the thread for you as the search feature is not allowing me to search the term "break-in". Maybe to help prevent theft!?

Most engines don't need a substantial break in period. However, here's what I do/did...in a nutshell.

~Warm up the engine before driving for the first 1000 miles or so! In fact, I still warm up my engine. Screw the planet! I'm outta here in 40 years or so anyway.

~For the first 1000, don't drive at a steady speed for more than 5 minutes. Vary the RPM.

~Do not be afraid to show the truck the rev limiter after 100-200 miles. BUT only when the engine is FULL warmed up!

~Change the oil after 500 miles, 1000 miles, 3000 miles and them at 5K. Yes...I'm a geek.

~Break in your brakes!!!! StopTech : Balanced Brake Upgrades

69cj · #3 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 08:50 AM

I have always broke mine in the way I am going to drive them and change the oil at 1,000 and then go to regular change intervals and have never had a problem.

marcussen · #4 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 08:54 AM

Once the engine warms up repeat 10-15 hard accelerations to seat the rings with braking in between to seat the brakes. Once the truck has a 100 miles on it 95% of the break in is done. Change the first oil early 3-500 miles, the second one at 1000 and then your normal intervals (5000)

fordmdb · #5 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 07:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 69cj

I have always broke mine in the way I am going to drive them and change the oil at 1,000 and then go to regular change intervals and have never had a problem.

Good advice here, 1000 miles oil change

JCare · #6 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 08:53 PM

Thanks for the input. A couple of follow up questions. Seating the rings would seem to be an important thing, why isn't this done when the engines are built. Is it true they come with a break in oil?

I also assume that the filter is changed with the initial oil change as well?

Monsta · #7 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 10:48 PM

No break-in oil and all engines are run in at the factory to initially seat the rings.

Change the filter with the oil.

marcussen · #8 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 07:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JCare

Thanks for the input. A couple of follow up questions. Seating the rings would seem to be an important thing, why isn't this done when the engines are built. Is it true they come with a break in oil?

I also assume that the filter is changed with the initial oil change as well?

You are correct most would say you don't need to break in a new engine, and if you buy one that is on the dealers lot with 50+ miles on it the break in is done before you get it. But a little caution and break in when you first get it might not be needed but it is a very cheap peace off mind. They come with regular 5W-20 oil, and yes change filter with every oil change.

krewat · #9 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 08:44 AM

Here's a link to one of many of Fredvon4's postings on V10 break-in:

http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/35...-in-a-v10.html

Went to google and searched "site:ford-trucks.com fredvon4 breakin" - it was a few links down.

JCare · #10 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 09:44 PM

Thanks guys, that is exactly what I was looking for. The other night, the search engine was obviously down, but I just thought I couldn't find anything. krewat, thanks for the link, a lot of good information and discussion. This is the first new vehicle I have purchased and would like to make it last. I have spent the last year thinking about this, reading here, and learning as much as I can from everyone here. Thanks again.