Hey everyone, Ive had my truck since June, I only have 2,200 miles on it, (yea, I know) I know they say these trucks can go up to 7,500 mi. on an oil change, but since ive had it since June, I would ike to do an Oil change at around 2,500 mi. Also would be nice to have fresh oil for the winter.

My question is, whats the best place to get a basic oil sampling kit without costing too much, and also easy to deal with? Is there any places on-line that you can order a kit with a little container and stuff, and just mail it out to a lab?

I want to do the stock airbox mod, by drilling the holes in it, and I would like to get a reading on a sample now, to see how my truck is breaking in, and than down the road, see what a sample shows with a few mods.

Any advice on where to get one of these kits will be greatly appreciated

 

I use Blackstone labs. Their customer service was second to none, and very quick. They send paper work which explains everything in the report clearly. They send you a sampling kit for free, then you send it back to them with $30 and in a few days they Email and snail mail a report to you. Also, after they do the test, they send 2 more sampling kits for future use. Here's the link: Blackstone Labs

 

If you go to "bob is the oil guy.com" & go to the oil analysis forum, you will find a number of testing labs to choose from. You will have to register to get on that website but, it's free, otherwise. There is a TON of information on that website regarding anything involving lubrication & filteration. Lots of good reading.

Personally, I went to the local Caterpillar dealer, here in Phoenix, & got one of their containers. The container & test were $15.00. They mail you your report. Frankly, the information wasn't as good as I would have hoped for. Basically, gave you the figures for different components & wear materials & a short note that the oil still looks good for the number of miles on it. If you know the values of the numbers they give you, it will probably be enough information for you to determine how your oil is doing. But, if you don't understand the "values" it's difficult to determine how your oil is doing. That's where a lab that truely explains the meaning of the numbers or values will be beneficial.

There is a guy on BITOG (bob is the oil guy.com) named Terry Dyson that will totally explain what's going on, for you, for a charge. I believe he uses Blackstone Labs for the testing. The whole thing will cost you quite a bit ( I believe about $45.00) but, you will KNOW what's going on when they are done with you & your sample.

Hope this helps.

Joe F.(Buffalo)