I want to use oil analysis to get as much warning as possible of any developing bearing failure in my '08 M3. These engines are known to be hard on their rod bearings. Mine is going to have its rod bearings replaced preventatively very soon, so I'll be starting fresh. The new bearings are a tin/aluminum alloy.
I plan to sample at every drain to build up a trend and watch for deviations from baseline.
This engine does not have a dipstick tube, so samples have to be pulled from the bottom -- but the drain plugs point downward, so a Fumoto valve would be risky.
Questions:
1. Assuming I have other ways to catch fuel dilution and tune-related problems, I'm thinking I don't need much in a UOA beyond an elemental analysis. Does that make sense?
2. Polaris Labs has nice bulk ordering options: ~$150 + shipping for a 10-pack of barebones tests, or ~$240 for a 10-pack of tests that include particle quantifier (PQ). Is that the best pricing from a reputable lab, or is there another option I should consider?
3. Any other recommended tests, sampling ideas, etc.?
I plan to sample at every drain to build up a trend and watch for deviations from baseline.
This engine does not have a dipstick tube, so samples have to be pulled from the bottom -- but the drain plugs point downward, so a Fumoto valve would be risky.
Questions:
1. Assuming I have other ways to catch fuel dilution and tune-related problems, I'm thinking I don't need much in a UOA beyond an elemental analysis. Does that make sense?
2. Polaris Labs has nice bulk ordering options: ~$150 + shipping for a 10-pack of barebones tests, or ~$240 for a 10-pack of tests that include particle quantifier (PQ). Is that the best pricing from a reputable lab, or is there another option I should consider?
3. Any other recommended tests, sampling ideas, etc.?