Volvo D12, Operator'S Manual

Page: 74 / 214

70 Oil System
Oil Sampling
General
Oil sampling is a good tool for determining
the condition of the engine. The oil sam-
ples are taken regularly over the life of the
engine and establishes a history of each
specific engine. The sampling results “paint
a picture” of normal wear. When results
occur that are outside of the normal, it indi-
cates that something is happening that
needs investigating.
It is important that regular sampling is
done. One sample or irregular sampling
will not give any meaningful information.
Taking Samples
WARNING
Hot engine. Keep yourself clear of all
hot engine parts and/or fluids. A hot en-
gine and/or can cause serious burns.
Samples should be taken when the oil is
warm and well mixed to be certain that the
sample is representative of all the oil in the
engine. Samples can be taken by having a
sampling valve installed on the engine or
sampling through the oil dipstick tube.
Follow the instructions in the sampling
package closely. A contaminated or not
representative sample will give false infor-
mation of the health of the engine.
NOTE! Oil sample values can change
slightly from one engine to another, even if
they are of the same model and manufac-
turer. Base the decisions from regular
sampling. Also note that repair work done
will often give a change in readings until
new parts are worn in.