oil analysis question
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 219
Likes: 26
2011 E350, 1998 ML320
oil analysis question
I have two higher mileage Benzes, and am going to send in oil samples from both at the next service interval to see what kind of condition the oil (Mobil1 0-40) and engine appear to be in. My 2003 E320 has 119,000 miles, and I am 5500 miles on this oil change, and the 1998 ML320 has 193,000 miles and is about 4500 into the oil change. For reasons of memory conservation, I have been changing the oil on them at the same time, as they accrue mileage at a similar rate. (the E a bit more, because, lets face it, it's a nicer ride.) I usually do the service a bit earlier than the FSS requires, at about 8K to 8.5K miles.
My question is, what mileage will give me the greatest amount of information? Obviously earlier, and the oil will be in better condition, but would I be missing out on getting data that might be relevant? Also, I have read quite a few threads on many forums over the years regarding oil change intervals, and come to the conclusion that short intervals, with a high quality synthetic are not only unnecessary, but may be detrimental.
Any thoughts, relevant experience?
I have posted this on one other board, so if you frequent both (Noodles) I did this on purpose.
My question is, what mileage will give me the greatest amount of information? Obviously earlier, and the oil will be in better condition, but would I be missing out on getting data that might be relevant? Also, I have read quite a few threads on many forums over the years regarding oil change intervals, and come to the conclusion that short intervals, with a high quality synthetic are not only unnecessary, but may be detrimental.
Any thoughts, relevant experience?
I have posted this on one other board, so if you frequent both (Noodles) I did this on purpose.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 3,254
Likes: 15
From: Louisiana
03 E500 and Corvette
I used the mann fleece filters and Euro Formual 0W40 M1 and went 13,000 miles between changes. I would recommend you go the max you would run then pull your sample. One sample is not a good reference. I do my plane every 25 hrs and after about 5 samples you can see a trend. I also use Blackstone labs they do a good job.
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
2008 E550
I don't have any experience with oil on MB engines, but I have quite a bit with truck diesels. Couple of points: Consistency is key. If you want to have meaningful comparisons, having the oil be a consistent 'age' is important. Easier to spot trends when you already know what to expect.
Also, a one time analysis is nearly useless other than giving you a starting point. All engines wear differently, so what may be significant particulate in one engine may be routine in another. Having a solid history is the best way to get your money's worth for both the cost of the oil and having it checked.
Also, a one time analysis is nearly useless other than giving you a starting point. All engines wear differently, so what may be significant particulate in one engine may be routine in another. Having a solid history is the best way to get your money's worth for both the cost of the oil and having it checked.
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
2008 E550
This is one of those ----"Why is the sky blue " questions---very entertaining!!
Why ruin your holidays simply follow the manufactures suggestions for oil/filter/types-changes----they have the lubrication science and statistical methodology experience---
You will get the result from one isolated test and then fret for weeks over a high copper report--then we will be getting all those WTF posts---take the wife out to dinner enjoy the holidays
PS: you will learn more by installing an inline tap water digital tester!!!
Why ruin your holidays simply follow the manufactures suggestions for oil/filter/types-changes----they have the lubrication science and statistical methodology experience---
You will get the result from one isolated test and then fret for weeks over a high copper report--then we will be getting all those WTF posts---take the wife out to dinner enjoy the holidays
PS: you will learn more by installing an inline tap water digital tester!!!
To an extent, I agree. However, in high-mileage situations, information is power. I use the oil information for one thing: To determine if a particular truck needs to have its trade schedule advanced or delayed. Having that knowledge can be a 250,000 mile swing in replacement timing.
On car engines, I would not bother with it.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 219
Likes: 26
2011 E350, 1998 ML320
Thanks for the replies, I think I will let it go to 10K miles, and do the analysis for a few times in a row, to see if it is consistent. I use almost no oil in either engine, so I have high hopes for the results, just getting curious as the mileage ticks up.
I am using a sample kit from WIX, (#24077) that you mail in. my cost is under $15.00, so it's not too much of an additional expense.
I am using a sample kit from WIX, (#24077) that you mail in. my cost is under $15.00, so it's not too much of an additional expense.
