I took engine recycling courses in college & the instructor had us submerge the piston & ring assy's in engine oil, wipe off the excess then install the pistons into the engine block. He has had many years of doing this w/out any failures.
I am sure there are different ways to break in an engine. But to not use any lube/oil on the cylinder walls, , sorry, don't sound right, metal to metal contact is a no no.
MBHD
