Present day factory engine break in procedure ?

[Racer57]

I didn't want to high jack a thread, so I'll ask here. Anyone know what the factory procedure is for present day engines, especially the ones with as much as 700hp ? They have a lot tighter clearances than our old engines do, so I would think that initial startup and break-in is more critical ? I can't remember the last time I saw oil smoke from a car.

[392 Cuda]

From the 392 Crate Motor Instructions...

Break-In
The following tips will be helpful in obtaining optimum performance and maximum durability for your
new crate engine.

Despite modern technology and World Class manufacturing methods, the moving parts of the engine
must still wear in with each other. This wearing in occurs mainly during the first 500 miles (805 km) and
continues through the first oil change interval. It is recommended for the operator to observe the
following driving behaviors during the new engine break-in period:

0 to 100 miles (0 to 161 km):
 Do not allow the engine to operate at idle for an extended period of time.
 Depress the accelerator pedal slowly and not more than halfway to avoid rapid acceleration.
 Drive with the engine speed less than 3,500 RPM.

100 to 300 miles (161 to 483 km):
 Depress the accelerator pedal slowly and not more than halfway to avoid rapid acceleration in
lower gears (1st to 3rd gears).
 Drive with the engine speed less than 5,000 RPM.

300 to 500 miles (483 to 805 km):
 Exercise the full engine rpm range, shifting manually (paddles or gear shift) at higher rpms when
possible.
 Do not perform sustained operation with the accelerator pedal at wide open throttle.

500 to 1000 miles (805 to 1610 km):
 Exercise the full engine rpm range, shifting manually at higher rpms when possible.
 Do not perform sustained operation with the accelerator pedal at wide open throttle.

For the first 1500 miles (2414 km):
 Do not participate in track events, sport driving schools, or similar activities during the first 1500
mi (2414 km).

NOTE: Check engine oil with every refueling and add if necessary. Oil and fuel consumption may be
higher through the first oil change interval. Running the engine with an oil level below the add mark can
cause severe engine damage.

[392 Cuda]

This is interesting, since they say these motors are pulled right from the line, and I'm pretty sure the dealers are not providing these instructions with a new Challenger.

[js27]

A friend of mine back in PA has 2 Hellcats--2016 and a 2018 and the owners manual give specific break in instruction like the ones posted above.
JS27

[70 Challenger Lover]

This is interesting, since they say these motors are pulled right from the line, and I'm pretty sure the dealers are not providing these instructions with a new Challenger.

The other thing the dealers are not telling you is to change the oil yourself using quality oil. Most folks get their oil changed at dealerships or a local jiffy lube type of shop. These places buy the absolute cheapest oil they can find in large barrel quantities. Its junk compared to the good stuff. I don't like changing it myself anymore but it's the only way I can be certain of what goes in the motor.