It is not normal to have a layer of sludge like deposits accumulated in the bottom of the oil pan. The main concern is the oil pick up screen is positioned very close to the bottom of the pan. It is quite possible that if this condition continues to develop you will likely plug the screen create a lack of lubrication to all points where oil gets pumped to. In my estimation if a siphon tube was able to draw up these sludge type deposit then it is likely significant. Personally I would consider dropping the pan, cleaning the oil pick up screen, then proceed with an Auto-Rx application or two if needed. It is highly likely that the contaminants are being produced in the top end of the motor and are getting deposited as the oil drains from the motor top end back down to the sump. You also must remember that this accumulation in the pan and perhaps throughout the oiling system, will have a negative impact on fresh oil with each oil change. In other words , current maintenance or oil change intervals are losing ground. There is no doubt about it that these motors are tough on oil. I also believe that the oil change intervals, that are recommended for these motors, are excessive.
Are you having any oil pressure warning lights come on presently? If so I would recommend dropping the pan and hand cleaning it, as well as making sure that the oil pick up screen and tube are clean. It is also quite possible that you merely just have some debris in the dip stick tube that got forced into the siphon tubing when you inserted it. If so then that would also be the first out as you drew suction to pull the oil sample.
I have no idea if you are a do it yourselfer, with respect to dropping the oil pan, which is fairly labor intensive on these units, but is likely a fairly expensive proposition for a dealership to do. But far less costly than a new motor. Perhaps try drawing out a new sample and see if you get more of the ugly deposits you got the first time. If not then it may just have been some buildup in the dipstick tube. In which case I would proceed with a standard Auto-Rx application.
If you continue to such up contaminants from the bottom of the pan, then I would recommend dropping the pan and hand cleaning first. There is no doubt that Auto-Rx added to the oil will start dissolving the accumulation in the bottom of the pan. If you choose to run the Auto-Rx, without dropping the pan, then to be on the safe side I would recommend changing out the oil filter in the first 500 miles to make sure that it is not already overloaded. If it is loaded with grime in 500 miles I would suggest that you follow the heavy sludge application on the Auto-Rx web site.
I hope this is helpful. Please fire back and further questions you may have.
Best Regards,
Rich Eklund
Auto-Rx Worldwide, Inc.
Chemical Consultant
-- Edited by Frank Miller on Wednesday 17th of March 2010 12:03:23 PM
-- Edited by Frank Miller on Wednesday 17th of March 2010 12:03:58 PM
Thanks for the thoughts on the problem and recommendations. Your analysis makes a lot sense.
You are correct - I'm losing ground to sludge build in the pan.
Several attempts to draw an oil sample with a too long a sample line appears to indicate sludge/slurry in the pan and not from the dip stick tube.
Two additional facts that I forgot to mention: 1. It takes 4 qts instead of the spec 4.3 qts. to fill the oil system now - thus more evidence for a sludge/slurry buildup taking up volume in the pan. 2. Mileage was excellent, but is starting to drop. Could be many reasons for this.
Will do a DIY project on dropping the pan and cleaning it.
Then I will start the Auto Rx process.
I'll let you know the project's end result with mileage comparisons before and after.
Thanks to Auto Rx for having this product on the market.
I'm not sure which vehicle this thread is referring to but I suspect a 1.8T Passat. The engine does have a drain plug, but you must remove the belly pan first to access it. As far as oil capacity goes you can increase the amount by 1/2 - 3/4 quart by using Purolator L40316, Wix 51333, or NAPA Gold 1333. By the way the 1333 is on sale through the month of March for $7.79. Your NAPA store may need to order this part for you (at no additonal charge) as it is not a big seller.
To pull the oil drain pan one must first suspend the engine so that a lower cross member can be removed. Once you have access to the oil pick up screen remove any contaminent that is causing blockage.
It would also be advisable to remove the valve cover to be sure that the oil return holes are not plugged up.
Thye PCV system should be serviced on a regular basis because one that is not working properly can lead to sludge build up.
