An Engine Oil has Thickened Considerably

[BOBISTHEOILGUY]

Oil analysis show elevated levels of sodium and potassium. What has happened?

 

[OneQuartLow]

Are water & glycol normal?

David

 

[Al]

I think he has it Bob.

 

[OneQuartLow]

I'll stick with a coolant leak. Water can burn off & I hear glycol doesn't show up easily.

 

[BOBISTHEOILGUY]

Ok, you've concluded cause but the question read "What has happened? "

Remember, these are questions you'd possibly see on the cls exam and such wording can catch ya if not complete. The answer given so far, 50% of the score.

 

[OneQuartLow]

If the engine overheated as a result of coolant loss then the oil could oxidize & thicken.

Is that what you're looking for?

How often do you see results like these from your customers without seeing water/glycol too?

David

 

[BOBISTHEOILGUY]

looks like you have the answer...

The given answer is..Probable contamination with coolant has accelerated oxidation of the oil

I have seen this in one. In her case, she was not experiencing any overheat condition as she had a coolant sensor and gave her warning she was low on coolant. She was refilling up to 1/2 gal of coolant a week and had no idea what it was doing. Upon inspection, her engine was pure sludge. So it is not always due to over heat that can cause the oil to oxidize when glycol is present.