I hope someone can help me. I know this is an auto forum, but have a question on an oil sample that came back on a boat I am looking to purchase.

It has an 871 detroit diesel 325 hp. It was rebuilt 270 hrs ago. The Ringhaver report on the oil said the iron at 162 ppm was high and the silicon at 26 ppm was high.

When I called the man seemed to say this was about normal for a marine engine. But I am concerned because the report says possible linear wear.

Any ideas if this is high?

TIA

 

Try BITOG for info on used oil analysis. There is both a section for boat lubrication and used oil analysis (I'd try here). Somebody there should be able to help you.

 

The iron level CAN be high or it could be normal. I know, sounds like double talk. If the engine has been sittiing and not run much, it will have significantly higher iron levels in analysis. The reason- internal rust. We are talking surface rust and not parts that are being pitted. If the engine has been run a lot since overhaul- it's high and I would avoid the purchase. The silicon is most likely gasket material from the overhaul so I wouldn't worry about it.