The Importance of High ZDDP Engine Oil for Flat Tappet Camshaft Engines

As a car enthusiast, you probably understand the importance of using the right engine oil in your vehicle. But did you know that the type of engine oil you use also depends on the type of engine you have? Specifically, if your engine has a flat tappet camshaft, you need to use high zinc and phosphorus (ZDDP) engine oil. In this blog post, we will explore why using high ZDDP engine oil is crucial for a flat tappet camshaft engine and the consequences of not using it.

First, let's understand what a flat tappet camshaft engine is. In simple terms, it is an older type of engine design where the camshaft lobes are flat instead of being curved. This design was commonly used in cars built before the 1980s and is still found in some high-performance engines today. The flat tappet camshaft is responsible for opening and closing the valves in the engine, allowing the fuel and air mixture to enter the combustion chamber and exhaust gases to exit.

Now, you may be wondering why the type of camshaft in your engine matters when it comes to engine oil. The reason lies in the way the engine operates. The flat tappet camshaft engine has high-pressure contact points between the camshaft and the tappet (also known as the lifter). These contact points are crucial for the proper operation of the engine as they control the valve timing. However, due to the high pressure and friction, these contact points are prone to wear and tear.

This is where high ZDDP engine oil comes into the picture. ZDDP is a chemical compound that contains zinc and phosphorus, which acts as an anti-wear and anti-friction agent. When the engine oil flows through the engine, it coats the contact points between the camshaft and tappet, providing a protective barrier that reduces friction and wear. Without this protection, the contact points can wear out quickly, leading to engine failure.

Furthermore, high ZDDP engine oil also helps in preventing premature engine failure due to metal-to-metal contact. As the engine runs, the contact points between the camshaft and tappet can become extremely hot, causing metal-to-metal contact. Over time, this can lead to severe damage to the engine and result in costly repairs. The ZDDP in the engine oil forms a sacrificial layer on metal parts, preventing them from coming into direct contact with each other and reducing the risk of damage.

Another important factor to consider is that flat tappet camshaft engines have stiffer valve springs than modern engines. These stiffer valve springs put more pressure on the camshaft, resulting in higher friction levels. High ZDDP engine oil helps in reducing this friction, allowing the engine to operate smoothly and efficiently.

In the past, most engine oils contained high levels of ZDDP, but due to environmental regulations, the levels have been significantly reduced. This is why it is crucial to use engine oils specifically designed for flat tappet camshaft engines. These oils have higher levels of ZDDP, typically around 1200-1400 parts per million (ppm), compared to modern engine oils that have levels as low as 800 ppm.

In conclusion, using high ZDDP engine oil is essential for the proper functioning and longevity of a flat tappet camshaft engine. Without it, the engine is at risk of premature wear and failure, leading to costly repairs. As a car owner, it is crucial to pay attention to the type of engine oil recommended for your vehicle and ensure that you are using the right one. So, the next time you change your engine oil, make sure to use high ZDDP oil for your flat tappet camshaft engine.

Note: This article was initially published on detroitdreamer426.com, which is a project of mine.