How to develop a quality Used Oil Analysis Programme

Developing a well-executed used oil analysis programme provides valuable information to help diesel equipment operators to improve engine and equipment performance. The key steps to consider are as follows.

First, defining the initial scope of analysis is key.  For example, operators may want to assess the optimal oil drain intervals based on driving conditions, vehicle fuel economy or load, to identify contaminant ingression or to determine oil performance across mixed fleets.

The next step is gathering the correct vehicle information and submitting it to the used oil analysis lab to ensure robust data. Information to be gathered includes vehicle, make, model, and engine make and model (including EPA model year, Euro class or tier rating) and VIN number. These should be noted along with vehicle and engine mileage and component information such as transmissions, axles, and coolant systems.

Sampling methods could include, using a vacuum pump through the engine oil dipstick to the sump or installing a push button sampling port before the oil filter, and sampling at the oil sump from the drain plug. Installing a quick connect sampling port before the oil filter is often a good option as it limits outside contaminants, ensures sampling when the engine oil is warm, captures the sample before the oil filter to allow for key wear metal identification, and ensures a representative sample versus a bottom sample that can contain more contaminants and skew the results.

Using online trending tools to help manage the data based on the programme purpose and targets will help determine how the equipment and lubricant are performing over time and allow for maintenance or lubricant programme adjustments.

So, regular analysis with programmes such as Texaco Lubewatch will help operators time oil changes to get the most out of their lubricants and flag-up potential problems before they become disasters.

Find out more about Texaco Lubricants’ LubeWatch Oil Analysis.