New piston ring break in?

[Metzman]

So how do you recommend I break in my new piston rings? Specifically, what oil do I run while breaking in the rings? I have heard rings have a tough time seating in when using synthetics.

My plan is to use a standard 20W-50 for 500 miles or so, then switch back to synthetic. Good idea, bad idea, your idea?

Thanks...Metz

 

[EricZ]

Your plan will work well. It really depends on the finishing work done on the cylinders and the type of rings. A lot of new factory car and motorcycle engines come with synthetic oil and rings seat just fine in no time. I have done both, used HD non-synthetic and Screamn' Eagle Syn3 to break in new top end jobs and rings have seated just fine with either.

 

[Metzman]

I'm just running a hone through the cylinders to de-glaze them and the rings are stock HD rings.

 

[Cooter]

Your plan is fine. I only use the 'high Zinc' oils when I put in new cams.