Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) trace of fuel in lab sample

[bigtoy]

Just got my blackstone report back and it had a trace of fuel in the sample. They said it has not affected the viscosity enough to worry about. What would most likely cause of this? This truck is bone stock, and it has always had good lab reports. I am suspicious that I didn't get the engine warm enough before the sample. If I don't use the truck for a long time(couple of weeks) I will plug it in so it will get warm quicker and go for a ride, and usually run her fairly hard after it is warmed up for 15 to 20 miles. I never start the engine and just drive a short trip around town.

 

[flyby night]

Do you let it idle to help it warm up? Extended Idle time can cause fuel dillution as well.

 

[bigtoy]

No. I avoid idling big time.

 

[radixr]

Fuel in oil.

One of my Blackstone oil analysis reports indicated a "trace" of fuel in the oil. The next report indicated 1. 5% fuel in the oil. This alarmed me a bit so I took a sample about 1000 miles later and no fuel was detected. My next regular sample (about 6000 miles) showed just a trace.



The lab determines the fuel dilution indirectly by checking the flash point. I am convinced the 1. 5% fuel dilution was a mistake and I never had a problem.



I certainly wouldn't worry about a trace unless it worsens significantly. Oo.

 

[Wingate]

I would take several more samples in 1000 mile intervals and see if the dilution gets worse, if not, I wouldn't worry about it. It is also possible, although not likely, that the lab got your sample confused with somebody elses... another reason to take another sample and send it in.

 

[bigtoy]

Thanks for the replies!