How Screwed am I? (metal particles in oil)

[Rob175]

Wouldn't water or coolant in the oil cause the oil to look "foamy" or "milky"?
The posted picture looks somewhat translucent and really not bad at all....unless I'm missing something....which is possible (lol)

[78F350]

Blotter test is a good idea while waiting. While changing oil I always put a small sample fresh from the engine on a coffee filter. It will show any fine debris and separate fluids.

[Petecomplete]

Originally Posted by Rob175

Wouldn't water or coolant in the oil cause the oil to look "foamy" or "milky"?
The posted picture looks somewhat translucent and really not bad at all....unless I'm missing something....which is possible (lol)

It would, when there is enough of it. But if you have slight condensation and it hasn't mixed into all the oil you can get these "layers". I've had a couple of outboard engines with both slight and massive water intrusion in the underwater housing/gear oil. with a lot of water its milkshake look if the engine has been run a lot and properly mixed. If its just slight, and the engine hasnt been run a lot, you can see seperation layers. Some clear oil, some more milky.

I did find moisture/droplets in the oil filler cap.

But the oil report will tell. i'm starting to be optimistic.