Dear Tom;
Sure, use a lesser expensive oil for break-in. Non detergent SAE 20, if you can find it. You will need to change it a few times so get 15 Qt.
If you change at 500 miles, 1,000 & 2,000 will cover the 'break-in' period.
Truck stops should have it as the 'adverage' parts counter person won't know what non-detergent is.
'Gearhead' is correct; You can't "plug the holes" as that will stop the oil from flowing etc. Also; there are some nice kits with "spin on" adapters but in your case It's just not practical.
"Modern engines" do not position the filter lines next to the exhaust. Looking under the hood of a 51 Chevy will reslove this question forever.
My customer with the 48 Sedan Delivery probably changed the oil every 1,000 miles which was the custom back then and for this reason alone is why it lasted like it did.
Today we have better oils and great filters for everything, super highways, fast oil changes and the adverage car is junk in 5 years.
How & Why you say; Because the public in gernral views the automobile like a pair of shoes. Use till worn out and buy new. Ever see Shoe Shine Stands anymore????
JM.....
