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07-23-2008, 03:41 PM | #1 |
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Blackstone Labs oil analysis
I changed my oil at about 2,700 miles. I took a sample (after it had flowed for a few seconds) and sent the sample in to Blackstone Labs for an analysis. The attached .jpg is a scan of the report. I highlighted in yellow the values that are in bold on the report as it's a little tough to see after I converted it to a jpg.
I really don't know whether this report does, or does not, suggest that BMW's initial 15,000 mile oil change recommendation is too long. Basically, the oil showed excess wear levels of aluminum, iron, copper and silicon. BUT - the lab said "don't be alarmed" by this, as it is common for new engines. (The metals are from the break-in process and the silicon from the casting process for some parts.) The lab also said that the "TBN" level (which I think means total base-neutrals) was 4.2 "so you still had plenty of active additive remaining. 1.0 is low." So: The oil had high metal levels, but we're still only talking about a few dozens of parts per million. The oil's additive components were still in good shape. As a technical matter, I don't know whether the relatively high parts per million of metals in the oil would reduce the effectiveness of the oil, such that it needed to be changed or not. But for me, I'm glad I did it. I'll change the oil again at around 8,500 and see what comes back from Blackstone then. |
07-23-2008, 04:37 PM | #3 |
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It reasserts what's been presented before - the oil itself is fine. You would do quite well if you just changed the filter.
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07-23-2008, 05:01 PM | #4 |
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I was waiting for someone to send in a sample.
I do this for my scooby and it helped me a lot. Especially when I found out the Mobil 1 5w30 was not working out so well. High numbers in copper and lead were a sure sign of bearing wear. I switched to German Castrol and number immediately went down to acceptable wear limits. |
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07-24-2008, 12:31 AM | #6 |
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since the bmw oil replacement plan is for 15k i decided to go aim for every 7500 miles. that way i'm not changing it too much but still an acceptable amount for a synthetic in a turbocharged car.
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07-24-2008, 10:29 AM | #11 |
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So comparing this to other samples analyzed:
AndyM's sample at 1200 http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showp...81&postcount=1 Here is one from a 330ci after 17k (The recommended interval) http://www.e90post.com/forums/showpo...04&postcount=1 It looks like the numbers don't get too much higher going from 1200 to 2700 miles. I think that being said I'll aim from 1200 for my first oil change then 7500 after that. Oh, and no way would I wait for the scheduled interval, best to get all the break in products and residual silicon out much sooner. AndyM: Any more oil changes since? |
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07-25-2008, 01:42 AM | #12 | |
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Everyone will have their own method, but my 2 cents is to change it at 1000 miles. Then use the factory maintenance every 15K with your own 7500 oil change in between. The oil + filter is farily inexpensive from the dealership and Johnl135i was kind enough to make a DIY video for us all. |
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07-25-2008, 08:42 AM | #13 | |
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Sounds like a solid plan for a Daily Driver .. if you race, I'd do it more frequently .. Crowley
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07-25-2008, 09:29 AM | #14 |
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Thanks for the info. I'm going in for a 2000km oil change on Monday but it's good to know it'll last a lot longer.
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12-25-2008, 12:07 AM | #15 | |
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well...
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Just drive the car as it's meant to be driven, no worries! |
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12-26-2008, 11:02 AM | #16 | |
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Tom |
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01-02-2009, 11:59 AM | #18 |
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Just curious. How much does it cost to do a Blackstone oil analysis?
Would anyone recommend doing it on a regular basis? Once a year? At every 7500 mile intermediate change? |
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01-02-2009, 03:03 PM | #19 | |
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01-02-2009, 09:14 PM | #20 | |
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I personally am planning on an oil change between 1,000 to 2,000 miles once I get my 1er...then probably at 7,500 intervals thereafter. |
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01-02-2009, 10:28 PM | #21 | |
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I typically have sent in all of my oil changes in for analysis. The cost is 22.50 for the basic analysis and you can pay a little extra for other tests. Currently I have done 3 tests on my 08 STI, it is a good way to catch a problem before it becomes a problem. Also to make sure the oil you are using and the interval is optimal. |
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01-02-2009, 11:58 PM | #22 | |
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I'm planning on keeping my 1er for a long time. |
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