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Originally Posted by JCL
A standard oil sample test will only show dissolved solids. If you want to test for visible particles you would need to order a large particle analysis, or particle count, test. It is usually an additional cost, approximately equal to the original sample. If the oil is fairly new, you won't get much information from a simple oil analysis.
A side question: What will you do as a result of the oil analysis? If you are not planning to tear the engine down based solely on the sample, then save your money and don't do one.
If it is running fine and not knocking, I suggest you leave it alone and thank the engine gods that nothing was harmed. Not much point in changing the oil again, as anything in the oil will be taken out by the filter. If anything, you should change the filter again, cut the old one open, and look for particles. When you change the oil next time, you should always have the hood open and be watching when you start it up. That is because of potential oil drain plug leaks, filter leaks, fill caps left off, and so on.
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Thank you for your sobering question and suggestions. This evening I changed the oil anyhow out of curiosity and for filter inspection. Yes, you're right, there was no point in changing the oil. I deeped two strongs magnets in the drained oil container and there was no metal particles caught. I also cut open the old filter and ran the magnet through it's entire length. There were quite a few tiny metal shavings. I did the same with the old filter that I'd removed initially before the fiasco and, to my surprise, that too had quite a few metal shavings- but that's 15k miles interval against 40 or so miles. I'll post pics soon.
In any case, the car is purring like a kitten and so far so good. In fact, it feels to run better evidently due to the fresh oil. Yes, I've thanked the engine gods so much for the mercy. I also finally gathered courage to confess to my lovely wife and survived the ordeal
