This is a good question for not only aircraft owners but ,boat and performance car owners. too.
Question. Is oil
analysis a good idea or just a waste of money?
Answer.
I
think it depends on the engine. Most
mechanics would probably agree that a high time engine would benefit from oil analysis. If you are
trying to extend the time between overhauls (TBO), oil analysis is a must. Flying your aircraft past TBO can save you a
few bucks in the near future but can (but not always) increase the actual cost
of the overhaul in the long term. It
could be one of those "pay me now or pay me more later"! Extended use might damage parts instead of
just wearing them down.
But oil
analysis and regular oil changes can help the owner monitor some of the
internal conditions of the engine. Which also means if you start a new engine on the oil analysis program from the very start you can continually monitor the engines wear throughout the years of operation.
Typically, the average oil change would be sufficient for most owners to
check the oil for any contaminants. The
mechanic or owner who does the oil
change should cut the filter, or inspect
the oil screen and look for any type of contamination. If you are looking at an aircraft to buy, and
you have the time, an oil analysis would probably offer you finer (no pun
intended) details than just the filter or screen test. In fact, if you find something in the screen
or filter it will probably indicate wear or damage that may be significant and
might be a indicator that you should do oil analysis.
So in the end, no I do not think it is a waste of money.
Labels: aircraft, aircraft maintenance, aircraft ownership, Airventure, aviation insurance, boat repair, boat service, collector cars, engines, oil analysis, oil changes
