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So, I've ridden my new 34 VD around 200 miles so far. I'm still seeing a slight metallic sheen, both silver and brass, in my oil. About when should I start worrying about this? The engine was a fresh rebuild when I bought it. Runs fine, has plenty of power, and hasn't died, however, I don't want to possibly fry a 91 yo engine.
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I don't have your model . . .so what follows is generalization.
Generally, total loss bikes will show more metallic particles in the oil than what most riders are used to seeing.
This is because you're seeing the direct results of wear in the oil and a concentration of particles that otherwise would get distributed into an oil tank or "sludge trap" on some bikes. Often a layer of junk builds up on the bottom of oil tanks that aren't cleaned regularly and if you've ever taken apart an older British bike with a crankshaft sludge trap you know how solidly those particles can build up.
Instead, with the total loss system, wear particles have nowhere to go and settle. You are literally "seeing" that ring/bore wear every time you dump the crankcase oil. In essence, flattys already wear themselves out pretty fast -- total loss bikes wear top ends even faster. All those particles have to go somewhere . . .and if you also use modern oil with heavy additives -- the bits stay IN suspension so you will certainly see them when draining.
The amount of silver sheen should stay consistent or decrease in the coming few hundred miles. If it decreases; it should stay at a low level for many miles. If it increases or you start smoking a lot more when giving the bike the beans. . .then I'd worry.
The "brass" suggests bushes were replaced and how long they shed bits for is a direct correlation to how everything was fit. Tight fitment will shed a bit more and for longer than loose fitment.
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I can't help you, but I understand your concern. I'm not sure what to think.... could it be a smattering of wear due to new rings? Did you run a magnet through the oil to see if it is "Steel"? Probably aluminum... but where would the "brass" come from? Not sure what the magnet would prove... but just thinking (typing) out loud.
So, all that being said, I GOOGLED this: is it normal to see slight metallic color in my oil after a engine rebuild.
Here is the ANSWER (albeit GOOGLE AI): Yes, it is normal to see a slight metallic color in the oil after an engine rebuild due to the seating of new parts and assembly lube. This is usually caused by fine metal particles from the wearing-in process of new bearings and piston rings. However, excessive metal shavings or a significant change in color after the break-in period could indicate a problem.
Here's a more detailed explanation:- New Engine Break-in:
During the initial run-in of a newly rebuilt engine, some metal particles are naturally produced as components like piston rings and bearings seat against each other.
- Assembly Lubricants:
Assembly lubricants, often containing lithium, can suspend these particles, giving the oil a slightly metallic or glittery appearance. - Normal Wear:
Small, microscopic metal particles are normal during the break-in period and will likely be filtered out by the oil filter. - When to Worry:
If you see large metal flakes, or if the metallic sheen persists after the break-in period, it could indicate excessive wear or a potential issue with a component like a bearing or cam lobe. - Post-Rebuild Oil Change:
It's common to do an early oil change after a rebuild to remove any initial debris.
Jim
AMCA #6520Comment
- New Engine Break-in:
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33V, after rebuilding EVO motors I would see unusual metallic colors in the oil but it turned out to be assembly lube used on the cam lobes.
Also, they make oil test kits that you can send out a sample and have it analyzed.
https://www.blackstone-labs.com
https://www.amsoil.com/p/oil-analyze...KIT01-EA&gQT=1
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