Does anyone have a real-world example of a lab test on their oil leading to a diagnosis of an issue before a big problem? I always have heard it is a good idea and that it will show if something is wearing or there is some weird issue, but I haven't actually heard of someone catching a sample and that leading to a repair before failure. This doesn't have to be entirely the 6.7's, but if someone does have an example of that please post up

If there are any Ford/International (F250-F550) examples you have - how did Ford handle the diagnosis? Was the input from your lab (whoever that may be, I know theres a few out there) credible in the eyes of your Ford dealer/service dept.? Ford rep? Engineering team?

The reason I ask is when I was at the dealer last I asked if Ford ever tests oil and the tech that I talked to said only if Ford requires it for a specific reason. This makes me question the credibility of an out-sourced lab test in the face of a problem. Maybe this is incorrect and there is more weight on an outside lab test (and I certainly won't stop doing it - good record keeping, I think), but the way I see it is if there was an engine problem that was pointed to after a lab test that Ford may still require a fresh sample and re-test. I have also heard that lab tests can vary based on the procedure the individual lab uses - in that the numbers attained are merely for comparison and to visualize trends. If the same sample went to 3 different labs you would get 3 different sets of numbers, but if you plot them all out they would show the same "picture" (IE - if a certain metal shows an increased rate all the tests' numbers would be different but they would all show the same "increase").

 

There is at least one person on this forum (FTE) that was able to detect a major internal engine issue via testing his oil. You'll have to use the search or wait for someone else to find it for you.