The oil analysis on the AEIO-360-B2F engine in my aircraft showed high levels of aluminum, iron, and chromium. I went back and pulled the oil screen again. We did find some ferrous metal that I had at first taken to be carbon. We found enough to suspect the camshaft so I opted to pull a jug and inspect the cam. The cam was pitted and starting to spall. The high level of aluminum was coming from the piston skirts that were severely scuffed and scored. Wrist pins and rocker shafts showed pitting as well. I believe this engine was headed for a catastrophic failure in the not-too-distant future. The engine is now getting a major overhaul to be sure we got everything. Your oil analysis may have saved my ass. Thank you. You can be sure that you will be getting a sample from me at every oil change from every airplane I own as well as those of my neighbors from now on.
Brian L.
About the Author: Kristin Huff
Kristin deviated from the family flock by attending Indiana University, earning an English degree. She worked as an editor and writer in Colorado and Michigan before the siren call of Blackstone brought her back to Indiana. Kristin started at Blackstone in 2002 and has since learned to love the intoxicating world of oil analysis. When she’s not working on the website, creating newsletters, doing HR stuff, or writing reports, Kristin enjoys running, swimming, gardening, and working on visiting all 50 states with her husband and kids.