6 Benefits of an Oil Analysis Program

Oil analysis is a valuable tool for keeping trucks on the road. Even if you don’t extend your maintenance intervals, you should consider investing in oil analysis because of the benefits it provides.

Here are six benefits of using oil analysis with every oil and filter change.

1. Spot problems as they are beginning to develop: Oil analysis spots wear trends so when you look at your oil analysis report you’ll be able to see what’s falling outside of their normal operating range. You can then locate the source of the problem and fix it before it leads to an on-the-road breakdown. It’s important to remember that oil analysis measures trends so you must take samples on a regular basis in order to get the most benefit.

2. Improve resale value: Consider including the results of oil analysis with other maintenance reports you include with used trucks. This provides proof of oil changes and also gives the potential buyer a more complete history of the truck. Studies have shown that resale value increases when used truck buyers are given proof that maintenance was performed on a regularly scheduled basis.

3. Help determine proper oil drain intervals: Since oil analysis tells you about the condition of your oil, you’ll know if your oil and filter change intervals are correct for your application. You may even be able to extend oil drain intervals based on the results of oil analysis.

4. Improve component longevity: Wear particle size lets you know just how serious a problem is so you can take appropriate action to keep the component in service longer and avoid replacing expensive parts unnecessarily.

5. Save money: Eliminating even one oil change a year because you are able to extend oil and filter change intervals saves money in material and labor time. Even without extending oil drains you’ll save money if the oil analysis helps identify one problem before it results in a catastrophic breakdown. On-the-road breakdowns are the most costly.

6. Learn about the health of the oil itself: The viscosity of the oil is extremely important because it tells you if the oil is still lubricating engine parts. Oil will thicken if it comes in contact with coolant. When the oil is too thick it can’t flow as freely as it needs to and if the situation continues, the oil can become sludge-like. Conversely, if fuel gets in the oil, the oil will become too thin to protect metal components. The Total Base Number and Total Acid Number will tell you if the oil is still capable of protecting the engine against corrosion.