Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) oil analysis report

[Tractorat]

I just had an oil analysis done on my first oil change using synthetic (at 4K miles). Truck has about 103k miles on it. They said the analysis looks good except it shows aluminum at 2 ppm above average. They say they dont think it is a problem, but to keep an eye on it.

Anyone know what aluminum in the oil might be from ?

Thanks

 

[AH64ID]

Have you done analysis before? What is the aluminum now vs then?

I cannot think of much in our engines besides the pistons and valve cover that have aluminum.

 

[Tractorat]

Never done one before. Always used delo in the past and always changed oil around 3 3.5k miles.

 

[AH64ID]

What was the ppm value?

 

[Tractorat]

8. They said the average is 3. I think they mean at around 6700 miles average. I was just at 4k miles

 

[AH64ID]

I would continue to monitor, that's still below the highest I have had. It could be as simple as a different detergent package and cleaning the motor out.

 

[Tractorat]

Thanks, that could be it.

 

[RonaldLarson]

A bit late, but before changing to synthetic, it is wise to clean out the internals with Amsoil engine cleaner. The stuff is amazing, but be sure to follow the directions. I've used it twice, and nothing I know of works better. You'll start with a well cleaned engine.

 

[Tuesdak]

Any spike in the silicone number to indicate dirt getting in via the intake/air filter?

 

[Tractorat]

No spike in anything. First time Ive done the oil analysis.

When is the amsoil cleaner used ? Right after a fresh oil change ?

 

[mfurrh55]

You're suppose to use the cleaner just prior to changing over to Amsoil synthetic oil, it cleans the engine of all the sludge from previous oils and contaminants , Monte

 

[Tractorat]

So, I can accomplish the same thing on my next oil change will no downside ?

 

[AH64ID]

I would call Amsoil with the oil change history, mileage, etc and see if they recommend it or not.

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

I don't think the cleaner/flush is necessary and probably not that healthy for the engine being it's a strong solvent. I suggest switching straight over to Asmoil amd let it do the cleaning, but leave it in only 3000 miles or so the first time. Only if the engine has been heavily fueled or has quite a few miles or was poorly maintained as far as oil change intervals go would I consider flushing it.

 

[Tractorat]

Thanks Vaughn, its actually at about 4k now. Im using red line.

 

[RonaldLarson]

Amsoil recommends using their cleaner before changing to synthetic. There should be no danger to your engine providing that you follow the directions for use. Idle speed only, no in-gear at all, and a new filter before and after cleaning. I've used it twice with no issues at all. Amsoil would certainly not recommend anything which would damage your engine. A phone call to them might be wise, to dissuade your fears.

 

[JLandry]

I just had an oil analysis done on my first oil change using synthetic (at 4K miles). Truck has about 103k miles on it. They said the analysis looks good except it shows aluminum at 2 ppm above average. They say they dont think it is a problem, but to keep an eye on it.

FYI, I've been having oil samples from my truck analyzed by Blackstone Labs for a few years now, and the aluminum level has always been above their so-called 3 ppm "universal average."

My results have been as follows:

Mileage / Al ppm

127,963 / 5
135,224 / 5
143,330 / 5
150,630 / 4
157,324 / 4
163,691 / 5

I usually use Chevron Delo 15W/40.

As AH641D suggested, I'd just continue to monitor and see if a trend develops... better or worse.

Best regards,

John L.

 

[Ram4Sam]

Here is my oil report since new. Looks like mine doubled at 100,000 miles also. While it is a small sample, yours, mine and Landry's are basically the same, maybe just the aging/miles process for an ISB.

Sam



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