Odd findings in oil change

[series2a]

Hi all,
Just changed my oil and filter this evening. I was feeling very proud of myself that the engine and tranny doesn't seem to have any leaks and is nice and clean. Honestly, it's the cleanest vehicle I've ever messed with that had 124k on it! Anyway, when I removed the drain plug, I noticed some sludge on the plug, and some coming out of the drain hole. While that in itself is odd, it looks like the stuff on the drain plug had metallic powder in it. Obviously, something is wearing out. Has anyone had something like this happen? I haven't noticed a change in the power, acceleration, idling, or crappy gas mileage. I'm more than a little worried...

Thanks!
John
2002 GMC Safari panel van

[Mr_Bowtie]

Have you tried cutting the oil filter open to see whats inside that? I would do that and then check everything again on the next oil change to see how extreme it may be. Could be nothing.

[Tygre II]

Is this a new van to you? Have you changed oil in it before? How long has it been since your last change?

Being that the shavings were in the sludge, it could be from any time since the sludge started to form, till you saw it.

First off, did you do anything different for the last oil change? Different oil, weight, additives?

Next, can you look at the oil itself? Does it have the shavings in it too?

Next, do a short oil change this time. 500 to 1000 miles (or less). Just don't use Fram oil filters, I've heard of clogging and relief valve problems with them. Go with Puralator or Wix. Check this for shavings too. I would baby it during this time, personally.

If it still comes up with shavings, then you got problems that would need some form of overhaul of the engine.

While I'm not a certified expert, I have seen a lot of miles on older cars. Shavings are not a good sign. You have good reason to be concerned.

Good luck and let us know how this plays out!

[series2a]

Hi all,
I've been wondering if the metallic sludge was dredged up by the engine flush I did earlier this year. I did change the oil after the flush, but didn't notice a lot of sludge as things were a bit runny due to the flush itself. I think the short oil change is a great idea, so I'm going to run another tank full of gas through it. With the miles I've already driven that should give me about 500 miles or so on this oil change. I'm keeping my fingers crossed...

John
2002 GMC Safari panel van

[series2a]

Hi all,
Just wanted to update this subject. Changed the oil and filter after 500 miles or so. No sludge, metal filings, or anything odd. Filter looked okay, too. So, I'm going to guess this engine was gunky, and the flush must have loosened more gunk than what came out at first. I have window motors in transit now, and hope to install those this weekend!

Thanks!

[Vinnie6]

Hi all,
I have window motors in transit now, and hope to install those this weekend!

That's an easy job! The hardest part, by far, is getting your 10mm socket back out of the handle after loosening the bolt. Popping the door panel is not too fun either. Having a tool for that helps a great deal. But the motor itself - grind off three rivets and it's out. Look closely at the gear on the motor. If they're not the same size, put on the gear from your old motor.

[Mr_Bowtie]

Good to hear no new findings in the oil!