VP Engine Assembly Lube is a high-viscosity, non-detergent assembly lubricant engineered by VP Racing Lubricants to deliver exceptional wear protection and lubrication during engine assembly and the critical first start-up phase. Designed for both gasoline and diesel engines, it provides an ultra-strong film barrier that prevents metal-to-metal contact on key components such as camshafts, bearings, lifters, and pistons.

This premium assembly compound was developed through VP’s decades of motorsport experience to meet the exacting demands of high-performance engine builders. Unlike ordinary greases or pastes that can cause restricted oil flow, VP Engine Assembly Lube is completely oil-soluble, ensuring smooth oil circulation once the engine is started. The formula maintains its cling and lubricity even when engines sit idle for long periods before break-in, protecting vital parts against corrosion, scuffing, and dry starts.

Key Advantages

Exceptional Film Strength: The proprietary synthetic base creates a durable molecular barrier that withstands extreme pressure and shear, outperforming many moly or zinc-based pastes without leaving solid residue.

No Filter Clogging: VP’s clean, particle-free chemistry dissolves entirely in oil, preventing filter blockage or sediment buildup that can compromise oil flow during the crucial startup phase.

Extended Surface Adhesion: The tacky texture adheres to all friction surfaces for long-term protection, even when assembly and startup are separated by days or weeks.

Universal Compatibility: Safe for both gasoline and diesel applications and compatible with all mineral, semi-synthetic, and full-synthetic engine oils.

Clean Dissolution: Once the engine warms up, the lubricant blends seamlessly with the circulating oil, leaving no sludge, varnish, or contamination.

Proven Racing Heritage: Developed from VP Racing’s competition-tested formulations, this product is trusted worldwide for professional engine assembly and performance builds.

Wear Protection

The first few seconds after startup are when an engine is most vulnerable to wear. VP Engine Assembly Lube protects critical metal surfaces by forming a stable, high-tension film that prevents contact between moving parts until oil pressure builds. This prevents scuffing, pitting, and premature component wear on cams, lifters, bearings, and valve train assemblies. The formula’s superior adhesion ensures consistent protection through storage and assembly, maintaining performance even under extreme load conditions.

High-Temperature Stability

Engines built for performance or endurance often experience extreme heat during both assembly and initial run-in. VP-2257 resists thermal breakdown and evaporation, maintaining its lubricity at elevated temperatures. It will not drip, thin, or burn off during camshaft installation or first-fire procedures, ensuring constant film integrity and reduced friction in high-temperature zones.

Oxidation Resistance

VP Engine Assembly Lube is fortified with antioxidants that prevent oil oxidation, varnish formation, and chemical degradation. This stability guarantees long shelf life and keeps assembled parts free from corrosion or discoloration. Builders who take time between assembly steps benefit from a lubricant that remains clean, tacky, and effective, even in humid or oxygen-rich environments.

Lubrication Efficiency

The lubricant’s molecular design minimizes boundary friction while enhancing surface smoothness. It enables easier crank rotation and reduces torque resistance during manual engine rotation. Once the engine starts, the lube integrates quickly into the oil system, improving film strength and reducing oil consumption. Faster priming ensures that the oil pump quickly establishes pressure, shortening the time components are exposed to dry friction.

Applications

VP Engine Assembly Lube is ideal for coating all friction-sensitive engine components, including main and rod bearings, camshaft lobes, lifters, rocker arms, pushrods, piston pins, valve guides, timing chains, and gears. It can be used across gasoline and diesel engines, street or racing motors, marine engines, and powersport applications. Its universal compatibility makes it a go-to choice for professional builders, workshops, and enthusiasts.

Viscosity and Composition

This product is classified as a high-viscosity synthetic lubricant, optimized for film retention and pressure resistance rather than standard SAE viscosity ratings. The non-detergent, solvent-free formula ensures it stays where applied and dissolves cleanly when the engine reaches approximately 60–80°C. It is safe for use with all engine materials, including aluminum, steel, and bronze.

API and Industry Performance Standards

Although assembly lubes do not carry official API certification, VP Engine Assembly Lube is formulated to meet or exceed the wear protection and cleanliness levels of modern API SN / SM / CF standards. Its chemistry is designed to transition safely into break-in or race oil, maintaining filter efficiency and additive balance without interference.

Storage and Handling

Store the product between 5°C and 35°C (41°F–95°F) in a sealed container, away from sunlight and ignition sources. Re-seal after each use to prevent contamination. The formula is safe on all common engine alloys and finishes.

Directions for Use

Clean all engine components thoroughly before application.
Apply a thin, uniform coating to friction surfaces using a brush or gloved finger.
Avoid over-application; excess lube is unnecessary.
After assembly, rotate the crankshaft manually to confirm smooth motion.
Proceed with engine start using the manufacturer-recommended break-in oil.

Why Choose VP Racing Lubricants

For more than four decades, VP Racing Fuels has been synonymous with high-performance engineering. The same innovation that powers world-class race teams drives VP’s lubricant division, ensuring precision and reliability in every drop. VP Engine Assembly Lube represents the culmination of that expertise, offering clean, dependable, race-proven performance that engine builders trust.

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