Slick Talk: Powered By Blackstone Laboratories - Blackstone Laboratories

Latest Episodes:

78: Consistency Nov 21, 2022

Show notes

A podcast listener wrote in with an interesting question: how do we ensure consistency in the results, no matter who the analyst is? At Blackstone, there is a multi-layered review process that starts with the login process and carries through to the final report. Blackstone Joe is here to break down that approach, as well as give a special s/o to an engine with results that he just couldn't help but share with listeners of the show.

77: No oil, no problem? Nov 08, 2022

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It's a common scenario in our line of work: engine runs dangerously low on oil and the owner is left to wonder what's the damage. Are repairs, replacement, or a rebuild inevitable? Or, did the engine escape without any obvious issues showing up in the used oil? Blackstone Joe is here to break down two scenarios with very different outcomes, detailing why it's important to not to jump to conclusions and go straight to the data.

76: They Said, We Said Oct 24, 2022

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The oil you buy probably has a recommended amount of mileage on it, "Good for xxx miles!" the text will usually read. When sending in a sample of the used oil, though, we often find ourselves recommending an interval that contradicts whatever is promised on the label, and some owners (rightfully so) want to know, "What gives?" In episode 76, Blackstone Joe is here to break down one of those very same instances, where the results, one in particular, really, called for a careful approach before extending the interval. The oil you run can certainly make a difference in some results, though, and that's why Blackstone Joe breaks down another example of how high levels of one particular metal can be directly related, and harmlessly so, to the oil the owner used. Enjoy!

75: Where To Begin Vol. 2 Oct 10, 2022

Show notes

Should I sample the first oil change?The short answer: yes. But you'll want to listen as Blackstone Joe breaks down the reason why sampling the first oil change is valuable, even if there is likely to be excess metal and silicon from wear-in and sealer washing outShould I wait to sample until I suspect a problem?It's always a good idea to check on your engine when you think something is wrong, but starting with oil analysis before you suspect a problem is even more valuable. Blackstone Joe digs into the benefits of sampling from the get-go and how you can use oil analysis to your advantage even after discovering a problem.

74: Do's and Don'ts Sep 26, 2022

Show notes

Picture this: the engine you own is facing either certain contamination or the possibility thereof, and you're now faced with deciding how to proceed with the maintenance plan. You might be wondering whether you should use an additive, if recent work might have impacted the results, or how you can go about looking for symptoms of a problem on your end. In this episode, Blackstone Joe is here to break down the do's and don'ts when it comes to addressing coolant, fuel, or excess dirt in the engine oil.

73: Q&A With the Analyst Sep 12, 2022

Show notes

Today's questions include:What's the difference between gas/diesel and aircraft engine oils?Does it matter if I'm using a filter magnet?Will residual additive skew results?How much oil do I need to sample?What information slip to use?Is oil analysis worthwhile before buying?

72: When Do I Check Back? Aug 29, 2022

Show notes

No matter the reason for a customer's initial sample, there tends to be a familiar follow-up question: When do I check back? Listen as Blackstone Joe unpacks the question, and how it's important to send in a follow-up sample, especially when harder use is part of the equation.Bonus segments:Used oil analysis - not just for engines!Blackstone Joe responds to internet maintenance tips

71: Mixed Signals Aug 15, 2022

Show notes

It's never a good idea to jump to conclusions, especially when it comes to vehicle maintenance. In this episode, Blackstone Joe breaks down an example where an owner noticed low oil pressure, which can be evidence of a bearing problem, but not always. Enter the value of used oil analysis, where the owner was able to find out if the bearings were in fact wearing poorly, or if there might have been another explanation for the engine suddenly having low oil pressure.

70: To change or not to change? Aug 01, 2022

Show notes

It's the age old question. "Do I need to change my oil?"Blackstone Joe is back in Episode 70 to answer this very question by breaking down a sample from his own 2021 Chevy Blazer.With a trip to Louisville looming, will the oil have what it takes to go the distance or is it time for a change?

69: A change in the trend Jul 18, 2022

Show notes

This episode is comprised of four acts. Act 1: Open: An update on the Paul Blart Saga at Blackstone Laboratories.Act 2: A Lycoming owner switches to 15W/50 and we find a noticeable change in the trends, one element in particular. Was it a problem or not? Listen and you'll hear Blackstone Joe unpack the outcome.Act 3: Seawater can reach the engine oil, but will it always show up the same way? It's all about how severe the situation is. Blackstone Joe explains why there may or may not be water left in the oil, and how we can find evidence of seawater even when there is no actual moisture left in the used oil.Act 4: An update on Slick Talk media

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