Look after it, and it'll last.
Rolling road session is essential. One of the very first jobs after fitting is a rolling road tune. This is stated in the warranty terms — proof (VAT receipt & dyno graph) will be required in the event of any claim. Don’t skip this step.
Choosing the right oil
Use an oil designed for flat-tappet engines with a high zinc (ZDDP) content — this is what saves your camshaft from very early failure. Plenty of classic-branded oils contain some ZDDP, but many don’t state how much, so choose carefully.
VW originally recommended a straight 30W. It still works fine in stock engines. Avoid 20W50 — the thicker oil tends to blow seals from a cold start.
- Morris Golden Film SAE 30
- Driven Racing Oil HR5 10W40 High Zinc
- Valvoline VR1 10W-30
- Eva Resto Spec 1, 2 & 3 — available in our store
Running-in procedure
Short & long blocks: steps 1–7 • Turn-key engines: steps 3–7
- 1
Fill with oil
Fill to just below the max line. Turn the engine over without a spark (pull the centre distributor lead) until oil pressure builds and the dash light goes out. Prime any external filter or cooler if needed.
- 2
First start
Refit the distributor lead and fire it up. Run briefly and listen carefully — anything strange, switch off and investigate.
- 3
Cam burn-in
Run for 10 minutes alternating between 2,000 and 3,000 rpm to bed the cam and followers. Stop, cool for 1–2 hours, then repeat — that's 2 × 10 minute runs. Drain the oil, refill to the full line, leave overnight, then check/set valve clearances, points and timing.
- 4
100-mile service
Drive steadily for 100 miles, change the oil and check valve clearances again.
- 5
500-mile service
Drive another 500 miles, then change the oil, check valve clearances, and check/set points and timing.
- 6
Regular servicing
From here, change the oil and check valve clearances at your usual intervals. Check/set points and timing. Clean or replace the oil strainer / external filter. Look after everything else an old air-cooled vehicle needs.
- 7
Drive steady
Warm the engine before driving, drive steadily and it will last a good long time. These are old engines even when built with new parts — treat them accordingly.
We go to great lengths to build engines with no oil leaks, but the occasional drip can happen and isn’t always covered under warranty — we’ll always do what we can to help.
Enjoy your new engine, and if you’re happy with it please leave a review on Google or Facebook so others can find us.
Read the full warranty terms or get in touch with any questions.