There is no break in period, the manual does say to ne "nice to the engine for the first 1000 miles. I changed mine at 1500 miles. Probably wasn't necessary, but I usually change oil in all my cars more frequently then required. Can't sya that's why, but I've never had a motor problem. Except for one old corvett back in 72 that I kinda missed 2nd and overwound.Droped a puss rod. Wasn't very pretty at all. 3500 is probably a better choice.