I changed my oil today. When I let the oil pour down on my finger, I could see a few (2 or so) tiny little metal specs. I made sure my finger was clean and repeated this several times. My motor has 86,300 miles on it, doesn't consume oil, and pulls hard in every gear until redline.

I know it's not normal for the oil to look like glitter, but is it normal to have just a few tiny specs? I'm assuming it's normal wear?

Thanks
Matt

 

Not good

 

Also, the oil was last changed March 26, but that was only 2600-2700 miles ago if that matters

 

Start by cutting apart you filter. See what that looks like inside.

 

..and how might I do that?

 

shiny means bearings, see if they are magnetic. If they are grayish and not magnetic then its normal alluminum.

 

An engine builder who I know and can trust told me that a very small amount of tiny particles (2-3) is normal.

 

I use a magnetic drain plug and pick up a bit of 'fuzz/grey paste' looking stuff[ very little it barely coats the magnet..]on most vehicles I have used them on.. I consider it normal..
How did you hold your fingers under that hot oil?[ you should drain it hot..]
Th bunker..I wasn't aware that bearings were magnetic?[journals on main/crank/rods yes but not the bearings themselves..

 

It burns my finger a little but no big deal

 

I think he's talking ball and roller bearings, not main and rod.

 

hacksaw . Not much to a filter after you get into the case. You could use a cutting wheel too, but that would be messy.

 

What 'ball and roller bearings'? there aren't any?..[maybe roller rockers if you got those]

 

Theres one in the h20 pump shaft

 

Do you mean there's a ball/roller bearing in the block for the water pump drive gear?[never had mine out?] I always thought that was a 'bushing' arrangement..
If so, I stand corrected..
If you mean in the water pump itself.. well the alternator and starter have bearings, too[ and some pilot bearings in M6's] but that can't get into the motor oil...]

 

Yes it is press fitted into the block. Picture of the back half.
http://ken.lowrance.com/projects/CSI...PumpShaft2.jpg

From side..
http://ken.lowrance.com/projects/CSI...PumpShaft1.jpg