I buy alot of stuff at harbor freight, it all seems to work well enough so far. I'd try it for me if it was a 16+hp hehe. as with any engine, change the oil often in the beginning, as there will be shavings, probably more with a "knockoff" as the parts break in.
I usually run mine about 30-45 mins at varying rpm's, and change the oil, than an 60-90 mins, another oil change, then after 4 hours again with varying rpm's another oil change. I usually consider that the "day of reckoning" and then change it after about a weeks regular use. oil is cheap and the less the motor cost, the more shavings you'll probably have until its worn in proper.this will also give the motor ample chance to "break" in the first day, as well as "break in"
do not use synthetics for break in, use cheapo dino for the first two, I prefer something with no detergents, then something with detergents for the 4 hour run and continuing on....I change to sythetic after a few weeks of regular use.
there are thousands of ways to break in a motor, so do some looking and don't take me as gospel, just my opinion and experience.
you don't use sythetics for break in because its too slippery, and your rings and etc may not seat right, just what I've heard/read, and have had good luck following.
i've done it like this with any engine I've used, and most all have held up fine. I would also recommend draining the oil as close to shutdown time as possible as to keep the shavings from settling on the bottom.
I am thinking of buying a Harbor Freight 6.5 HP engine, Central Machinery. Does anyone know anything about this motor I know that it is a Honda "knockoff" with a 90 day warranty. It is on sale right now and I can get it for about $120.00. I don't know anything about it and can't find anything on the web about it. If it's crap I would rather put the $120.00 towards a better engine. Anyone have advice?
