Which oil analysis firm?

Njlarry

Well-Known Member
May 9, 2021
637
Rock Hall, MD. Chesapeake bay
Boat Info
2000 400 DB
AT LAST
Engines
Cat 3126
Soon be time for fall oil change and will send samples for analysis. Which companies are the best? CAT has their sos oil analysis program, how does it compare?
Thank you for all input.
 
I've used Blackstone Labs a couple times for surveys. They seem to have a good reputation, and track results over time.

This reminds me I need to order some sample kits.
 
Whomever you get make sure they check for fuel in the oil. We have been sending the samples to MotorCheck for years and just found out last year they don't analyze for fuel in the oil unless requested.
 
Whomever you get make sure they check for fuel in the oil. We have been sending the samples to MotorCheck for years and just found out last year they don't analyze for fuel in the oil unless requested.
Blackstone does this. Had oil samples pulled during a survey; the standard test found fuel dilution.
 
+1 for CAT SOS

Always thought that its important to use the same testing company to aid in the tracking.

Whomever you get make sure they check for fuel in the oil. We have been sending the samples to MotorCheck for years and just found out last year they don't analyze for fuel in the oil unless requested.

I'll have to check if that's part of the tests i get.
 
Always use the same lab as small variances will occur based on type of equipment used. I personally send to Cat as they are local and have a lab here in my state. I would guess Cat would have the main facility in each state with a lab.
 
I prefer Cat's SOS program. They maintain your reports and stack 4-5 samples on their reports when they send them to you so it is east to spot trends.

Another real advantage is that generic labs like Blackstone can only give you generic answers when high metal content is found in a lube oil sample. They find the high metal content, but Cat's labs know what metals are used where in building specific Caterpillar engines so their reports can give you a very good starting point to run down high metals readings.
 
I prefer Cat's SOS program. They maintain your reports and stack 4-5 samples on their reports when they send them to you so it is east to spot trends.

Another real advantage is that generic labs like Blackstone can only give you generic answers when high metal content is found in a lube oil sample. They find the high metal content, but Cat's labs know what metals are used where in building specific Caterpillar engines so their reports can give you a very good starting point to run down high metals readings.
If you have Cats that sounds like a great services.

Alas, I have Cummins so it doesn't seem as appealing Blackstone seems to have a pretty deep data set on Cummins engines though. Blackstone does also add past sample results to new reports for comparison. From the report I have it looks like they do up to 6 total tests (1 current plus 5 historical) on one report.
 
I use Blackstone, Great report and very knowledgeable.
I just bought my boat and the surveyor used Cat for the oil samples I was not that impressed.
Comments said change oil in the pod and retest in 10 Hours
I call Blackstone and told them that the surveyor used Cat for the oil samples and I was not impressed with the report and they said email them the report and they will use these numbers to start a trend on this motors.
I just call Blackstone and ask them what oil I should use in The QSB 6.7 HO and they spent 15 or 20 minutes on the phone explaining to me all the different oil for diesel motors and then gave me a recommendation on what oil I should use in that motor.
Blackstone was very accommodating and explained everything.
 
Whomever you get make sure they check for fuel in the oil. We have been sending the samples to MotorCheck for years and just found out last year they don't analyze for fuel in the oil unless requested.
What would be a likely cause for fuel in the oil on a gas engine?
Black stone mentioned it in my report last year.
My compression test numbers are good.
 
Blackstone all the way. My only issue with them is the time it can take for the Usps to deliver the actual samples but they haven’t lost one yet and I’ve sent in over 100. They send great reports with what metals are coming from where and call out anything unusual as well as offering advice. The report shows the past 5 samples for that engine as well so it makes sense over time. 1st class imho.
 
If you have CAT engines, I think CAT SOS is a no brainer. The CAT SOS does check for Fuel in the oil sample. I believe you can order more comprehensive test if conditions call for it, but I've never done beyond the basic. Ryan purchased the CAT sample pump in nice case...that's worth having if your going to change your own fluids.

More importantly than who does the test, is to be consistently doing this testing, as they can point out problems early on where a less expensive fix might solve a problem that left unattended, can result in major repairs. This may not always be the case, but you at least you gave yourself a good fighting chance.
 

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