Oil looks black as night! normal?

[fkloster]

Checked my oil level via dipstick yesterday. Oil and filters were changed exactly 9 months & 1,100 miles ago. Bus runs great and level looked good... just AMAZED how black it looked. Is this normal?

Engine = Caterpillar 3176 turbo (325 hp)

Oil pressure when warm @ speed approx. 43 lbs.

Oil analysis resulted positive (green check mark) all normal. (at time of oil change)

I'm kind of new to diesel engines but LOVE them!

When I change the oil in my nissan gas burner for months afterwards the oil still looks clean. I am dealing with a COMPLETELY different animal here aren't i?

[Vegasdan]

Black is normal. A diesel's oil will turn black after a short time.

[Route 66]

Black is good. It means the oil is removing contaminants.

[bdpreece]

If you just change the oil, start it and let it run 10 minutes it will be just as black. This is normal for a diesel.

[PlayItForwrd]

Yay, now I don't have to ask the question!

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[fkloster]

Thanks guys! I'm learning stuff every day. I LOVE THE BIG IRON DIESELS!