Differential Oil Analysis - Recommended Lab?

[plyonsMC9]

Good evening Bus Folks!

Is there a recommended lab for differential oil?    I'm hoping the results would show problems, etc., and what oil is actually in the differential - especially synthetic vs standard.

I inspected what I could, and it doesn't smell strong as I might expect w/ standard, and it's mostly clear.  Sooo - if the oil is synthetic and in good shape, I would not want to go through the expense of changing it out, maybe just top it off a quarter inch or so, if that, below the fill plug.  If it's standard I'm thinking to have it replaced w/ synthetic or just replaced w/ standard, and then I'd know exactly what was in there.  From that point I could maintain it properly.

This is for a '93 DL3-45. 

Thank you for thoughts, suggestions!,
Phil

[RJ]

Phil -

I use Blackstone Labs for all my oil analysis. They'll send you sample bottles with free shipping, last sample analysis cost $40.

blackstone-labs.com

[luvrbus]

Good evening Bus Folks!

Is there a recommended lab for differential oil?    I'm hoping the results would show problems, etc., and what oil is actually in the differential - especially synthetic vs standard.

I inspected what I could, and it doesn't smell strong as I might expect w/ standard, and it's mostly clear.  Sooo - if the oil is synthetic and in good shape, I would not want to go through the expense of changing it out, maybe just top it off a quarter inch or so, if that, below the fill plug.  If it's standard I'm thinking to have it replaced w/ synthetic or just replaced w/ standard, and then I'd know exactly what was in there.  From that point I could maintain it properly.

This is for a '93 DL3-45. 

Thank you for thoughts, suggestions!,
Phil

Your local CAT dealer has the best ,you can get the sample bottle and suction gun there ,check Empire CAT in your area for supplies,never take a sample from a oil pan or gear box  plug ,The John Deere dealer in Prescott should do oil sampling too

[plyonsMC9]

Much appreciated gentlemen!  I shall follow up this post w/ the results.

Kind Regards, Phil