Abstract: A two step retorting process for pyrolyzing a solid feed selected from the group consisting of oil shale, tar sand, waste motor oil, and scrap tires to recover valuable products therefrom comprising retorting a mixture of the solid feed in heavy oil at a relatively low temperature, recycling the oil formed back to the first step, and completing the pyrolysis of the residue formed at a higher temperature in the absence of product oil recycling. Apparatus is provided including a means for feeding and soaking the solid feed, a HSPR, an IFBC, and means for handling product liquid and gas.