Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Oil analysis results

[TboneMan]

I've been using Valv. Premium Blue Extreme (5w-40) for the last 150,000 mile or so (total miles on the truck is 235,000).



My last oil analysis with 8,787 mile on the oil shows slightly elevated levels of Antimony. This appears to be an oil additive. Previous levels were around 13ppm and it jumped to 31ppm. I'm suspecting Valvoline change their additive formula and are now using more Animony then before.



Does anybody know if this is the case?



All wear metals are still really good considering the mileage on my truck. Doing a google search for information about this topic, I read some pretty scarey test results on Powerstrokes.

 

[WestTN]

Antimony is a metallic element frequently allowed with lead to increase leads strenth.



Its' presence may indicate bearing failure.

 

[TboneMan]

Thanks. I'll need to keep an eye on these numbers. I'll probably do another sample about midway between oil changes.

 

[mainer29]

ORGANIC ANTIMONY COMPOUNDS AS LUBRICANT
ADDITIVE
http://www.vurup.sk/sites/vurup.sk/.../pc/vol48_2006/issue2/pdf/PC_2_2006_Jaing.pdf

This white paper discusses the basis of Organic Antimony Compounds as additives in Motor oils, Gear Lubes, and Greases.
Antimony Additives - Bob Is The Oil Guy

It appears to me to be a anti wear additive. Why not call Valvoline and ask the manufacture.

Hi-Performance Synthetic Engine Oil. The Premium Blue Advantage:
For more information contact Valvoline Customer Service at 1-800 TEAM-VAL

 

[RustyJC]

If the antimony is coming from an alloying element in a bearing or bushing overlay, lead or tin should be rising along with the antimony as the overlay deteriorates/is damaged.



If the antimony is showing up as an oil additive component, it should have been there all along (barring a reformulation by Valvoline) and shouldn't be increasing unless you're adding make-up oil with higher antimony levels.



Rusty