Tiny bubbles on the dipstick

[Frbl]

I recently installed an Amsoil bypass system on my 2005 Scion xA (1NZFE) and returned the oil via the oil filler cap. I already have plans to change that return to the oil pan because I fear excess oil in the PCV valve/throttle body. Another member here experienced exactly that.

But just yesterday I noticed that every time I check my oil via the dipstick one or two tiny bubbles are at the top mark. This is true even after several checks in a row. Is this a sign of the dreaded foaming I hear about? Should I be concerned that it will continue even if I route the return to the oil pan directly?

TIA.

 

[Pablo]

First of all - I will state I am not a Scion expert.

When I see tiny bubbles on the dipstick, I tend to think water first. Have you run a UOA?

What is this dreaded foaming? Do you have a link? What is the mechanism of the symptoms you mention - are the return galleys too small/too slow?

 

[Frbl]

Originally Posted By: Pablo

When I see tiny bubbles on the dipstick, I tend to think water first. Have you run a UOA?



I did do a UOA right after I installed the bypass - about two weeks ago. Everything checked out OK. I have been anal about checking my oil (hey, I am on BITOG after all!) and this is the first time I've noticed these small bubbles on the dipstick.

When I lifted up my filler cap with the engine running I expected to see a steady stream of oil but instead saw more of a spray. This made me wonder if this aerated the oil and caused it to foam. The hose is probably 10 inches from the bypass filter to the oil filler cap and more or less a straight shot, so I don't know what would be causing the spray rather than a stream.

I did a blotter test yesterday and compared it to one I did right before the Blackstone UOA and they are identical. I would think water/anti-freeze would show up in some manner.

I Googled "small bubbles on dipstick" and saw many others with similar concerns, even without bypass filters. Some suggested water problems, others just said it was normal, especially if it was just a few bubbles.

I've decided not to worry about it since it probably is nothing, and I am switching over to returning the oil from the bypass filter to the oil pan anyway.

 

[Frbl]

BTW - Have completed re-routing the oil return to the oil pan. No more tiny bubbles!