Finally sent off a sample of used oil to Blackstone and got the lab report today.
"TOM: This is a really nice report from your Boxster. There's nothing out of line in this sample at all, and no contamination was found. Universal averages show typical wear for the Porsche 2.5L engine after about 5,000 miles on the oil. You ran a little longer, yet your metals are all fine compared to averages, showing no evidence of poor wear or other mechanical problems. No coolant, moisture, fuel, or excess silicon (which can be abrasive dirt) was found, and insolubles were low showing no combustion/oil filtration problems. Great report! Solid engine!"
At the last oil change, there was no sign of metal in the filter (
WIX 51042 spin on), but there was just the slightest bit of metal dust on the magnetic drain plug. A positive lab report sure puts one's mind at ease.
TO