Originally Posted By: GROUCHO MARX
How's the head and gasket?
Good question. No milkshake on the dipstick, haven't done a compression test. Engine is an aluminum head/iron block. Part of the reason I'm thinking of draining the oil is to see if there is a milkshake. It hasn't been making any abnormal noises.
One thing that was interesting that made me think the oil was fine is no HLA noise, which a Mazda engine will make itself heard when the oil is due to be changed. Its almost like a built-in oil change indicator.
To calm my fears I went ahead and drained it. $20 is well worth the peace of mind. Looked a bit darker than new when it was draining out, but nothing else. One other reason I decided for the change was the weather, its getting into the high 90s next week and didn't want to chance it. If it was winter I probably would have left it in the pan.
Thanks for all the responses.