I'm going to do my first LS1 cam swap. All the typical bits - cam, valvetrain upgrade kit, trunnion upgrade, timing set, oil pump. I know the roller cam shouldn't need break in, initial reduced valve spring pressure etc., but I'm concerned about low zinc levels with the new parts.

I have 70K miles on the stock motor and run Mobil 1 5W-30. Should I use any assembly lube or high zinc oil to pre-coat, and where?

 

I would use assembly lube on the cam, soak the lifters in oil before install, make sure to prime the oil pump with some oil and spin it to get some oil through it, and then once you have your valvetrain back together pour oil over the rockers before you put the valve covers back on. I would use a oil something like valvoline VR1 for a break in oil, higher zinc content.

 

I used Redline Assembly Lube. It dissolves in oil very quickly. I have also recently switched to Amsoil Z-Rod 10W30 oil, which has the higher levels f ZDDP and Phosphorous for protecting high bearing load areas like pushrod ends, etc.

 

I would use some assembly lube on the cam, soak the lifters, change the oil and go. there's no need for any break in oils, being that the cam is a roller and not a flat tappet there's nothing to break in.

 

Don't use VR1 they dropped the zinc levels in it about a month or so back unless you can find the some old bottles.

 

ZDDP is mostly for flat tappets.

 

I'm not so sure on this anymore. Many of us are running high spring rates and forces and many are seeing wear on the rollers, cam lobes, and pushrod ends. I went with a high ZDDP oil to prevent this. Some of the data coming out now from the aftermarket suppliers (like Comp) are stating that to preserve the cam and other parts (roller cams are included in their tech releases) you should use a higher ZDDP oil. EPA regulations are removed it from most oils to the point where there is no protection for modified motors.

 

Comp sells ZDDP additive.
Comp's generic info also leads people to believe they need to break in roller cams.
From the LT1 side of things the Comp rpm ranges are often 800rpm off or more. I wouldn't trust something just because it is in Comp's marketing literature.

I haven't seen any of the damages you are saying people are reporting though, my mind might change if I did.

 

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you could use motor oil on the cam

 

this is what i did, i will probably use assembly lube on the engine im building now just for gp