Understanding the Causes of Engine Wear

S•O•S OIL ANALYSIS

TEST RESULTS
EXTERNAL CONTAMINATION
Water (Coolant/Other) Positive Water

Glycol (Coolant) Positive Glycol INTERNAL CONTAMINATION

Fuel Fuel Dilution Normal Wear (Rings/Liners, etc.)

Dirt Silicon/Aluminum Sacrificial Surfaces (Bearings)

Oil Transfer from Another Compartment *Viscosity Assembly Fit/Torque

Break-in Wear (New/Rebuild)

Metallic Element(s)
Manufacturing Debris (New/Rebuild)

CONTAMINANTS Mating Surfaces Fit/Finish

Parts Defects
4
ENGINE LIFE CYCLE AFFECTED Competitive Parts Use
Monitor Engine Wear

OIL CONDITION APPLICATION

Metallic Element(s) Increase Climate/Terrain

MAINTENANCE
Severe/Improper Operation
*Viscosity
Wrong Oil Used
* TBN Excessive Idling/Lugging
Plugged Air Filter
Soot High Altitude
Improper Fuel Setting

Extended Oil Change Oxidation

High Operating Temps.
Poor Cooling System Maintenance **Nitration
High Humidity
Fuel Quality Sulfation
Cold Operating Temps.

* TBN and Viscosity are optional tests within the S·O·S oil analysis program.
** Nitration is seldom a problem for diesel engines, but can be significant for natural gas engines.