HELP w/Oil Analysis sample
 

I would like someone who is doing oil analysis testing for extended oil drain intervals to provide a solution for me. I am using the vacuum pump and tubing provided by Polaris Labs to withdraw an oil sample through the dipstick tube on my 2005 5.9 Cummins. The issue I am facing is the tubing won't reach the oil unlike the dipstick.

When I insert the tubing, it slides in but I feel something catching the end of the tube and it won't go past the object. Is there something holding the dispstick tube to the block that is preventing the round tube from reaching the oil in pan? I have tried an angle cut on tubing to pass this spot with no resolve.

What other way can I extract the oil without contaminating the sample? Your input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks a bunch!

(Only give input if you have experience with oil sampling)

I just got same pump and same problem. i think its hitting oil pan. i mesured dip stick and tube and about eight inchs maby and where the oil is it wont go into pan. You would think they might try using there own product, right. i guess i just do a test at oil change for info and engine documention. but it does defete the extened life objective.

I use a topsider type pump on my stuff too, but best I can remember it would not work on my 06. I put a Fumoto drain valve in, makes it very easy to get a sample and change the oil when needed.

where do you order the pump and drain valve from? Part numbers and any photos on location of installment on your engine would be a great help. My truck is due for an oil change. Thanks for your input!

bump for more input

Seems like I read in the last couple of weekes that it is normal, something blocks the dip stick tube.

Yes sir, and I have no idea what the object is. Articles are suggesting closer to the return line. Oil pan drain should be used as a last resort.

Yea same here, When I pulled the tubing out of the dip stick hole there was about 3" submerged in oil but I couldn't get any out of it. So I just kept extending changes and doing samples and comparing. So I run to my comfortable interval and re sample when I change the oil from the middle of the drain stream.

Can't you get a sample from the filter? Extended oil or not, the filter service life isn't extended and should be changed at the usual time shouldn't it?

I don't do extended myself but I would be changing the filter regularily if I did.

how much does an oil test cost? how much does an oil change cost?

This is incorrect.


The best way to capture a "real world" sample is to use the draw tube through the dipstick tube on a hot engine just shut down. I also have the same issue with my 06, so I resorted to a mid drain capture, got a base line and extended from there.

The reason you want the sample from the oil pan after the engine is at full operating temp and just shut down is because that is when the contaminants are in full suspension. If you draw a cold sample it will be inaccurate.

don't know about the pump. But, you can get the drain valve here

http://www.lubricationspecialist.com...FQkIswodAhcdLA

Yeah,the Fumotu cures the "deluge or nothing" factor on the 3rd gens. Killer setup and quality. I drive mine for twenty minutes and take a midstream sample per Blackstone's suggestion.

[laugh]

I've said this dozens of times.... But really, people that extend oil changes are protecting the environment by not throwing oil away unnecessarily.

You can buy a good oil on sale for under $10 a gallon, or $30 an oil change.

An oil analysis costs about $25, plus you need to add a quart of oil when you change the filter, and THAT oil costs about $8 a quart.

Whatever lets you sleep at night.

Right now I'm running Rotella synthetic 5w-40 at $20 a gallon... Expensive for me, but I hope my engine likes it in the cold weather.

Sorry to bring this up again, but is there a problem with doing it at the filter?