Marv

Got this from Blackstone... Lots of copper.

What do you guys think?

Engine has 142K miles.

Cemoto

I'm not an expert by any means but will venture a guess. The zinc has worn off the bearing shells and they are down to the copper which would be kind of expected at the mileage.

Good luck!

.

ScottArizona

I’ve read that high copper without high lead also in a Porsche engine meant snot likely bad bearing wear. Especially if not burning oil. I think you are fine. Engine just wearing as engines do, but not “wearing out”! I feel oil consumption is better barometer of engine health. Could be many sources of copper. Lines in oil cooler?

Techno Duck

Anyone know what the oil cooler core on these cars is made out of? Copper can leach out of the core and cause elevated amounts.

I do not immediately suspect bearings because you would see elevated tin and lead as the babbitt wears. Copper indicates something brass or bronze is wearing. My first thought are valve guides. At your mileage, if the top end was never done this would be my guess. I'm not sure what else is bronze or brass on the internals of this engine, maybe bearings in the oil pump.

My background: marine engineer whom has had involvement with oil analysis programs for most of my career.

powdrhound

NOT looking at oil reports gives me peace of mind...

spiller

I tend to agree. Some see knowledge as power, but there is too much knowledge at times. I even take leakdown tests with a grain of salt in certain situations. If the engine feels strong and isn’t consuming excessive quantities of oil then keep driving IMO. Maybe a dyno run with a dyno that has similar spec cars to compare against. Perhaps I’m a negligent fool...

LexVan

Marv's Covid-19 "To Do List":

1) stop using Mobil 0W40
2) re-read #1

Marv

Thanks, everyone.

Yes, the good news is that the car burns absolutely no oil at all.

I'll do another analysis on the next change and see what appears.

The dyno sounds like a fun idea.

Marv

That's exactly what I use... What's wrong with Mobil 0W-40?

LexVan

The short answer is that is does not hold spec, and shears down to a 30 grade. You live in a warm climate. You should at least switch to a Porsche A40 approved 5W40. Mobil 5W50 would be a great choice for you.

Marv

Thanks! I appreciate the help.

5W-40 seems difficult to find locally. I'll see if 5W-50 is available.

LexVan

Anytime!

Napa Auto Parts always has it:

Marv

I'm guessing you must also be the one that's hoarding all the toilet paper!!!

rsabeebe

you beat me to it!

cgfen

Looks like you buy @ NAPA when on sale.

Me too.