"Ernie Harrod" wrote in message
...
That test kit is known as a blotter type test. It measures the
transverse absorption spectra of the fluid which depends on such
things as viscosity, surface tension and ion affinity. It does not do
a chemical analysis but is better than no analysis at all. You can
make the kit yourself by simply using blotter paper and putting a drop
of hot oil on it. You can get blotter paper at your local art supply
store for much less than that kit. If fact, one sheet of blotter paper
will allow you to do about 50-100 tests for less than $5. Why not just
change the oil twice a season? It wouldn't cost as much as the test
and you would be looking at relatively clean oil to inspect at the
change. Synthetic oil is far superior to either the parafin or asphalt
based conventional viscuous amolients.

This advice is all spot on!

Change the oil twice a year.

Use 100% synthetic oil.

Art blotter paper is what is used in the test, it is far cheaper.

Three things to add:

View the blotter under a microscope (not under your tongue).

Take pH readings of the oil.

Record the data and view trends.


Millions of car and truck engines run trillions of miles with minimal
maintenance. So let's go overboard on checking a boat engine that never goes
more than a mile or two from shore. Don't forget that frequent magnafluxing
of the block helps too.

A class in engine repair may be more helpful for Jon.