Oil analysis results

[Younger]

I got an oil sample test report from CAT. I have no idea what to compare the results to. I have looked everywhere. There has to be a standard or the data would be useless.

The evaluation section was NOT good. This is a NEW Cat C7.

[Hatterized]

API = American Petroleum Institute....they classify and rate oils and believe they may also may be able to point you in the right direction as for a guide for comparison

[JD5652]

The report "should" have included a "normal" expected range for all the metals, etc. Whether it does or not and you have "bad" or suspicious results, I would get a second opinion before doing anything drastic. I use Blackstone Labs http://www.blackstone-labs.com/

Also, you said this engine is "new". Do you have any other historical reports to compare this one sample to? One sample really does not tell you much....it's the trend that gives the real story.

[clt_capt]

The oil analysis is going to be a trending tool. A single test may show high values if you have done some work - or even initially when breaking in a new engine...

[Milkshake]

Post it. I will give you as much info as posible. Some of data is important without the trend. I have been reading sample reports for over 20 years. You can also send it to me via email.jjbtotallubes@yahoo.com

[Fritz]

Milkshake knows his sheet!

[seapower]

Alot of good info here. Look's like folk's are paying attention. Cat will have standard's for comparison's on a new engine oil after "break in". As stated trend is key "one time" sample's will not tell the whole story, unless something is truely wrong. If you give the report as was offered an initial determination can be made, from simply from the data compiled from several like samples. I made a lengthy post on this some time back, look at it if you have a chance. I strongly suggest to anyone that is serious about their maintainence, to put oil samples in there "usual" things to do list. You know the old saying about an "ounce of prevention", very true in this case. Good Luck, Frank

[kidIsurus]

I use always ANA labratories, here is an oil sample analysis chart from the website. Always remember to use sterile containers to prevent contamination of sample which could lead to false or inconsistent readings.

http://www.analaboratories.com/commo...ostictable.asp

http://www.analaboratories.com/commo...rpretation.asp