GUARD 2173389 - Caterpillar

To complement a good preventive maintenance program, Caterpillar recommends using S O S oil analysis at regular scheduled intervals to monitor the condition of the engine oil and maintenance requirements of your engine.Obtain Sample
Each oil sample should be taken when the oil is warm and well mixed to ensure that the sample is representative of the oil in the crankcase. There are two methods recommended to obtain oil samples from the engine crankcase. Use the sampling valveUse a sampling gun inserted into the sump. Refer to PEHP6001, "How to Take a Good Oil Sample", for a step-by-step explanation if using this method of sampling crankcase oil.Caterpillar recommends using one of the above methods. If either of these methods are not possible, then use a drain stream method when changing oil. When using the drain stream to obtain the oil sample, do not sample from the beginning or end of drain stream. The oil at the beginning or end of the drain stream is not mixed well enough to be representative of the oil in the crankcase.Oil Change Intervals
Many conditions exist that can affect the selection of an optimum oil change period. The fundamental requirement in this decision must be to maintain the lube oil in an acceptable condition that provides continual engine protection. The quality and amount of oil available is balanced against the oil's ability to absorb combustion by-products.Due to manufacturing tolerances, engine application and maintenance variations, all engines do not consume fuel and oil at the same rate. The amount of fuel consumed is in direct relation to the maximum oil change interval selected.All oils do not perform equally. Lower quality lube oil requires reduced oil change intervals. Oil analysis provides the best indication of when to change oil.Consult your Caterpillar dealer for complete information and assistance in establishing an S O S oil analysis program for your engine.