Over the last few years, the dwindling amounts of ZDDP in off-the-shelf engine oils have sent many collector-car enthusiasts scrambling for alternatives that include enough zinc to keep their engines with flat-tappet camshafts running. Diesel oil worked for a while, and we even heard some accounts of guys crushing up tablets of raw zinc to dump into their engines. In recent weeks, however, two new companies have begun offering oils with the ZDDP levels of yore.
First, Comp Cams and Endure Performance Lubricants have teamed up to offer a new line of ZDDP-enhanced engine oils for critical break-in periods in flat tappet-equipped and racing engine applications. Offered in two synthetic-blended viscosities, 10W30 and 15W50, Comp Cams Engine Break-in oil is to be used for classic engines that have recently been machined or sit for long periods of time. It is also recommended for initial break-in on high horsepower engines. Engine Break-in Oil protects all rotating assembly surfaces and internal engine components, and the proprietary mix of ZDDP additives prevents scuffing of metal surfaces. Another performance formulation, Muscle Car and Street Rod Engine Oil, is also available in 10W30 and 15W50, and is used after break-in has been completed. Both formulations require no additional supplements or additives; everything you need is right in the same bottle. Comp Cams Break-In Oil and Muscle Car and Street Rod Engine Oil are compatible with all racing and pump gas, including methanol or 102 octane. This advanced formulation reduces internal engine sludge and varnish caused by additives in conventional mineral-based oils.
Endure Lubricants’ well known Comp Cams Engine Break-In Additive supplement will still be offered for those enthusiasts who prefer another oil formulation such as the 15W40 diesel oil that many camshaft and engine manufacturers have been recommending since zinc and phosphorus started disappearing from engine oil. The additive is offered in 12-ounce bottles, or for an engine repair shop or large fleet, a 5-gallon container is also available.
Second, Champion Hi-Tech Racing Lubricants has recently created a new Classic and Muscle synthetic motor oil formulation that contains premeasured ZDDP additives. Offered as a synthetic/mineral oil blend, Champion Classic and Muscle oil is available in both 10W30 and 20W50 weights. A full synthetic 15W50 is also produced. The synthetic blend viscosities contain .16 percent zinc and .14 percent phosphorus for additional lubrication of performance engines with roller camshafts and/or flat tappets. The ZDDP additives have been available for quite some time; however, Champion Hi-Tech was one of the first companies to incorporate the additive into the oil.
Easily identifiable by its blue color, Classic and Muscle oil is ideal for classic cars that spend extended periods of time in storage, as it provides protection of all internal engine surfaces at initial start-up. It also has a unique thermal viscosity stabilizer that delivers consistent oil film strength at higher temperatures, horsepower and compressions.
Champion Classic and Muscle Oil has also been chosen as the official oil of the 2011 Great Race, which is sponsored by Hemmings Motor News, takes place between Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Bennington, Vermont, on June 11-17, 2011.