Oil Analysis Reveals High Lead Levels - Info?

[Wendigo]

Got my first oil analysis back form Blackstone Labs today and they indicated that my engine oil had higher than usual levels of lead. Actually my oil had 4X the universal averages for a 3.2L Yamaha with 90K on it. This freaked me a bit, to say the least, since lead is really only present in main bearings, right? From what I have read some SHO have actually spun these bearings and I wonder if this an indication of that happening. Is there anything in particular that I should be looking or listening for that would confirm these suspicions?
When the car first starts up after sitting for a couple days, it does seem to rev up high for a second right at the beggining. I am not sure it actually has oil pressure at that point, and maybe that is wearing on the mains.
Really, any info you guys have would be greatly appreciated. I am going to send my next oil change in for analysis again to see if it is still high with lead.

C.

 

[SHOZ123]

Sounds like rod bearings. What was the copper level?

 

[Wendigo]

Copper was below universal averages by 2/3's.

What's that mean?

 

[Wendigo]

Oh shit, new rod bearings? Christ, I havent even done the 60K yet. Anyone want to volunteer to help a brother out? I am feeling very unhappy at this point. I was just getting the SilverSurfer the way I wanted it.

C.

 

[DavidT]

yuck, I hope its no big deal for ya... sorry, I don't have any input here shrug All I know is, there has been a really big scare lately with all the rod bearing chat cry
How much did it cost you for the analysis, and how exactly did you get it done?

 

[SHOpar]

dkautumna:
yuck, I hope its no big deal for ya... sorry, I don't have any input here shrug All I know is, there has been a really big scare lately with all the rod bearing chat cry
How much did it cost you for the analysis, and how exactly did you get it done?

It's odd that rod bearings are wearing so quickly in our cars, but at least if you catch them soon enough, they're easy and cheap to replace, and you'll be all set for another 100K+.

How much did it cost you for the analysis, and how exactly did you get it done?

The place I go through is $10, and that includes the kit to take the sample and the analysis.

All you have to do is take a small sample from your oil as you drain it, fill out a little sheet for your car and contact info, and send it off.

I know it's recommended that you get your car up to full operating temp before taking the sample, so you have to deal with HOT oil, but it's not that bad if you're careful.

 

[Wendigo]

Well, I'll keep you guys posted if a main goes. I use this place. More expensive than some cheaper than others, but I've used them for all my vehicles. $20 for analysis and free sample kits.

http://www.blackstone-labs.com/

C.

 

[Mike Kopstain]

The whole rod bearing thing is very odd, in that spinning one seems to be "no biggy". Just replace them and drive. I've never seen a motor where you could spin a bearing and get the motor back into proper operating condition without regrinding the journals or at least using an oversize bearing. I guess it's a mixed blessing.

The good news is that theoretically, this problem should only appear on cars with manual transmissions (high load, low RPM) and with clogged exhausts.