Close to first start

[Jethrow]

Hi guys.

I think I am closing in on a first start for my GM LS3 and TR6060 combo. Wiring nearly done!

But, before I do start it, I was curious about the engine and gearbox oil. As the engine/box were both bought new, they appear to have come with oil already installed. And I think for the gearbox these are meant to be sealed for life (or a long-ish time?).

So, should I be changing the oils, or just go ahead and start. The engine and gearbox have been sitting ready to go for about 18 months I guess, waiting for me to get to this point.

Thx

[Zedn]

I drained the oil on my crate motor because I had to modify the sump. I was very surprised to see sludge in the bottom of the pan. I think that when it sits for a long period of time it starts to settle out.

I also emptied my gearbox fluid because I had install a speed sensor. The gb fluid was in much better condition.

Probably worth it to change engine oil

[Paintwerks]

I would change the engine oil and filter.

I seem to recall that there is actually a specific break-in engine oil available too. It's probably available at most oil supply shops.

[sambo]

There's tons of break-in threads on the LS1 forum but for what it's worth, I replaced the oil in my crate L98 from Holden with mineral oil for the first 1000km then moved to Castrol Edge. I haven't touched the oil in my T56 but it is fairly notchy and hard to shift at times - might look into some alternatives to the Dex III at some stage.

[jcraigau]

There is also plenty of threads on LS1 about T56.
I dropped in the Penrite 70 gear oil and changes are like new again!