Breaking in New Truck

[Pythonman]

I follow either the manufacturers recommended break in or substitute one that says no WOT and not much over 70mph the first 500 miles . It's probably not really necessary but it doesn't seem like anything that causes damage so I do it. The main point for me is never hammer on the engines before they reach full operating temperatures (even after break in) and figure out and stick to a reasonable maintenance schedule. As far as first oil changes and the like, with all these 8qt capacity engines I'm happy if I get the first one done in the first 1000-2000 miles range. Anywhere in there is fine for me because I've seen the metal shavings and particles that come out of new engines. After the initial oil change I like to go no more than 4500 mile oil change intervals, not so much that it needs it but, everything on the vehicle gets inspected and the fresh oil is peace of mind for me.

I'll guarantee anyone who got one of my used cars/trucks got a darn good running one!

[Blackout Silverado]

I work on test track at Nissan factory. We run every new car on a dyno at speeds up to 75-80 mph for a extended time to test engine before it is sent outside to me. When i get in one it has usually 2 miles on it. I put 3 miles on a vehicle on the test track, doing many obstacle & function checks. Those 3 miles are very extensive things, things a normal vehicle owner will probably never do. We do have a fast track section of the track where we drive the vehicle at speeds of 75 to 90 mph to test vehicle for vibrations, excessive wind noise, steering issues, etc. We slam the brakes hard at the end of the fast track to test brakes, distance of stopping, etc. So to answer your questions, owners manual does give you recommended guidelines for your vehicle, believe me, your truck has been tested very hard in the small amount of miles when you purchase it. Most people never do what the manual suggests, the car company realizes that. We test every vehicle that comes out of the factory. Your truck should be able to handle whatever you give it (within reason) when you buy it brand new, believe me it has already been tested.

[Thomcat]

You should keep it under 60 and no hard stopping for the first 50 miles.....not for the engine, but for the tires which may not be not fully seated and can "walk the rim" throwing off the balance.