Savings can be realized with extended drain intervals if they are accomplished in a safe and effective manner.  However, extending intervals without a monitored process can cost thousands of dollars in unnecessary repair expenses.

Here are some simple guidelines when beginning the extended drain interval process:

• A good used oil analysis program should be in place with history on each piece of equipment you wish to extend.
• Examine your fleet and select a few pieces of equipment to start with that you can carefully monitor.
• Gather all data on those pieces of equipment, such as oil sample results, oil consumption, current drain intervals, working conditions, etc.
• If the data and oil sampling history for a piece of equipment look good, increase the drain interval slowly with an extension of no more than 25%.  For example, if an engine is currently changed at 100 hours and data and samples look good, the engine can extend to a 125 hour interval.
• Sample regularly at the increased interval for a minimum of 2 oil changes and compare the results at the increased drain interval with the results at the previous drain interval.
• Intermediate samples can be taken between intervals to insure the interval is not being extended too far.  For example, sample at 100 hours and then again at 125 hours when the oil is changed.
• If results at increased drain interval compare favorably with results at the previous drain interval, you may extend further by following the same steps again. It will take time to achieve your ultimate extended drain interval goal, but the results will be rewarding.  If done in a safe manner, extending your intervals can save your company money.

Universal Lubricants, Inc. has helped customers extend drain intervals over the last 30 years through the use of our Engine Guard Used Oil Analysis Program and superior products.  If you have any questions regarding extended drain intervals, please call our Technical Service Dept. at 1-800-444-6457.