[radz28]

That's what I was thinking too, but I feel better I have confirmation. I think that speaks well of synthetics too because after all the LT1 intake manifold leaks (even on the LT1 in my '95 Z28) I'd think GM would change it they didn't think it was beneficial. That's one of the reasons I haven't completely bitten on the whole dino'-oil-is-better wagon. I understand you don't really want to switch too late in the engine's life, but that's mostly because synthetic oil is smaller and more uniform in size than dino' oil, therefore more apt to find spots to leak through. As far as protection, it is said by a guy on LS1tech that has tested oil that the oil is good through like 10K miles (or something) but it's more a matter it becomes contaminated with engine debris and chemical contaminants from combustion than it actually breaks down.