Oil Analysis During Engine Break-In Period
DD13, DD15, and DD16
Within the first three oil drains, copper (Cu) levels may exceed the specified limits. Under normal operating conditions, copper may leach from the oil cooler in new engines until the entire copper surface is passivated, which normally occurs within the first oil drain. In DD13, DD15, and DD16 engines, copper levels may reach as high as 500 ppm during the first oil change with no adverse effects. Copper levels should reduce with each oil change but may not remain below the specified limits until after the third oil drain.
DD5, DD8, DD13, DD15, and DD16
Within the first three oil drains, potassium (K) and aluminum (Al) levels may also exceed the specified limits. Under normal operating conditions, brazing flux compound containing potassium and aluminum may leach from the Charge Air Cooler and be introduced into the engine oil through the air intake system. In the DD5, DD8, DD13, DD15, and DD16 engines, potassium levels may reach as high as 300 ppm during the first oil change with no adverse effects. Potassium from brazing flux may be perceived as a coolant leak at these levels. During the first three oil drains, only sodium (Na) should be used as an indicator for potential coolant leaks. Aluminum levels during the first three oil drains may reach as high as 150 ppm. Potassium and aluminum levels should reduce with each oil change but may not remain below the specified limits until after the third oil drain.