All About Engine Oil Sample Analysis
Engine oil analysis can tell you a lot about the health of your boat’s motor. A lot goes on inside a boat engine, and akin to drawing blood, an engine oil sample analysis (OSA) can tell you a lot about the health of your boat’s motor and gearbox. That’s why some mechanics and surveyors recommend taking one sample every year… But what does a typical oil sample analysis include and what does it tell a boat owner or buyer?
Most oil sample analyses will include the following:
Spectral Exam: A spectrometer is used to find the number of various metals and additives in the sample – useful for finding excessive wear in bearings, pistons, rings, cylinders, valve train, and gears. It also determines the composition of any oil additives.
Viscosity Test: The thickness of the oil at a specific temperature is tested – useful for finding fuel dilution, the breakdown of viscosity enhancers or other contamination.
Flash Point: Tests the temperature at which vapor from the oil ignites – contamination can cause a specific grade oil to flash higher or lower than the design flashpoint.
Insolubles Test: Insolubles are typically abrasive solids – higher readings are usually by-products of incomplete combustion.
If you’re buying a boat, make sure your surveyor will take oil samples and if you list your boat with NYBAntibes we will be happy to provide free oil sampling analysis of your boat’s machinery as part of our pre-listing inspection.
