Kickstart with Kyle

We all know new lubricating oils have important properties—things like viscosity, pour point, and flash point. But many people don’t realize that testing those oils can tell you much more than what’s in the drum—it can show what’s happening inside your equipment.

Regular oil analysis helps spot physical or chemical changes that indicate whether your oil is still protecting your machinery or it’s time for a change. I like to think of it as a health check for your equipment. I had a customer who called for an oil analysis after they drew more litres than they should have. We identified that the oil was mixing with the diesel. Instead of a member dealing with a costly equipment issue, we could offer a clear solution.

The best part? Valleyview Co-op offers this service free for our members. The test kit lets us take a midstream sample, send it for analysis, and you’ll have a full report in about a week. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your oil’s condition is worth it, especially during the busy spring and fall seasons when every hour counts.

Here’s why I recommend oil analysis to every operation, big or small:

• Catch Problems Early: Spot potential issues before they become expensive repairs.
• Maximize Equipment Life: Keep your machines running longer with the right maintenance.
• Schedule Repairs Wisely: Plan service around your schedule, not after something breaks.
• Extend Component Life: Reduce wear and tear on key parts.
• Protect Your Warranty: Stay compliant with manufacturer requirements.
• Optimize Oil Changes: Avoid unnecessary changes while keeping protection strong.
• Boost Fleet Availability: Keep your equipment working, not waiting.
• Increase Resale Value: Well-maintained equipment sells better — and faster.

If you haven’t tried oil analysis yet, I’d strongly encourage you to give it a go. It’s simple, fast, and can save you a lot of money — and headaches — down the road.

Reach out to our Valleyview Co-op Fuel Team to get your kit or learn more about how this service fits into your maintenance routine.