Falcondrivr

I changed my oil the other day and finally got around to cutting open the filters yesterday. In both filters, there are tiny magnetic particles. The particles are extremely fine, maybe the size of flour. In each fold of the crankcase filter, there were about 5 or 6 of these particles. I wouldn't have noticed except I ran a magnet down the folds...In the tank filter, the concentration was maybe half of the crankcase filter.
I'm right at 138,000 miles. I have no smoke under any conditions coming out of the exhaust. Car uses maybe 1 quart every 1500-2000 miles.

Is this normal wear? Or should I start saving for a rebuild?

NC TRACKRAT

How long between changes? Do you have any of the oil that hasn't been contaminated that you could send in for an analysis? Also, getting a compression & leak-down test will help you determine engine's condition.

Falcondrivr

12 months and 9000 miles since last oil and filters change.

NP993

I don't think you have anything to worry about, although 9K miles IMHO is a little too long to go between oil changes...

Floodj

I would send a sample to Blackstone Labs (http://www.blackstone-labs.com/). It cost about $20.00 and is totally worth every cent. If you don't have any of the oil you just removed wait about 1000 miles and send them a sample. You can also send in a virgin sample to establish a baseline for you oil. Personally, I send in samples every six months or 1500 miles, or after each track event. No affiliation just a satisfied customer.
--Joe

Falcondrivr

I know, I know,...But I do filters every time as a pennance...BTW, NO metal on the magnetic drain plug thingy...

Mike J

Hmmm, I think most people on the seem to change the oil every 3-5k miles (or yearly), complete with both filters. However, you still are within the factory specifications....

Cheers,

mike

Falcondrivr

I agree, but factory says oil at 12,500 miles and Oil and filters at 25,000. 9000 was way longer than I planned on this one, but it was one of those things where my schedule blew up.

Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems

Rick,

JMHO, but those oil change & filter recommendations are simply absurd, based on what I've seen.

I think its good for business (theirs) and bad for yours as it helps guarantee a steady parts business. Don't forget, PAG doesn't have your best interests in mind when writing those recommendations.

The best engines I see go the distance are ones that are maintained FAR beyond what the factory advises.

Don't take my word for anything; talk to the reputable and honest people who have been in the engine rebuilding business for a long time,.......

Falcondrivr

I agree completely, but it's my reasoning for not losing sleep when I go over and hit almost 9K. Until this one I was doing them at 1/2 the factory intervals.
What do you think about the original question?

Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems

There are several sources of ferrous material in these engines and I'd simply keep a close eye on the filters from now on. Use a proper filter cutter (never a saw) when opening these up, too.

Oil analysis is a good idea to spot any trends here just like with A/C engines, but I would not worry about it at this juncture.

Falcondrivr

Thanks for all the replies. I'm feeling better about the metal, properly chastised for the interval. I promise it won't happen again.

Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems

I would honestly tell you to save for the engine overhaul, just based on mileage.

Quadcammer

Are you sure it isn't debris from cutting the filter open? I've seen that happen several times.

Monique

Hey Rick,

You know how often aircraft engine oils are changed?

Not often... only topup.

Fuzz on the mag plug = no sweat.

Chunks however... would ring a big alarm.

IMO as always.