I recently purchased a 2000 996. The previous owner told me that he had the intermediate shaft repaired about 1-2 years ago, as well as the clutch replaced in the last 2 years. I confirmed these details with the shop that did the work (Omega Motorsports in Jacksonville FL).

I believe the last oil change (prior to today) was 5k miles ago, so I gave it an oil change today. When I removed the filter, I inspected in the folds and found significant metal flakes (I will try to get some pictures tomorrow).



The flakes look like pieces of bearing material (not confirmed in any scientific manner). Some of the flakes were 2mm-3mm (estimated) but very thin, like a foil. I collected an oil sample that I plan on sending for analysis (collected as a precaution while draining the pan fortunately).

My question (after my verbose background) is: what is the most probable cause for the metal? Is it probable that this is residual metal from the intermediate shaft failure that was not sufficiently flushed out?

I really appreciate any advice that can be offered, as I do not wish to tear down the motor to find this is just residual from a prior repair that could have used additional flushes.

Also, given that the material resembles that of bearing material, I wanted to know, are the main and rod bearings (generally) replaced during the intermediate shaft replacement?

I can contact the shop to confirm, but given that they did not tell me of the leaking spark plug (oil protection) tubes, which I saw after leaving there (when inspecting the car), I am hesitant to trust them.

BTW I asked them about the leaking tubes after purchasing the car and they then informed me that they were aware prior to my purchasing the car. I had asked for their input on the vehicle prior to the purchase, and they told me it was a good car, no mention of any issues.

Thank you very much for the input, and I apologize if similar topics have been covered in other posts. However, given the specifics of this (prior intermediate shaft replacement, etc) and potential engine issues, I thought it prudent to get a detailed answer for my concern at hand.

 

I don't have any experience with oil analysis in a Porsche, but we did them for boats... the trick is to have a history of oil analysis.... that way you can track and see how it changes. One random sample is like a snapshot in time.... The lab that does it should identify what they find and attribute it to the part that is wearing... obviously you will find different materials normally as wear is a part of engine life.... what you are looking for are abnormally high values that indicate excessive wear. That's what I know FWIW....

 

Sosoomi thanks for the input. Unfortunately I don't have any past samples as I only recently purchased the car. I will need to rely on the lab's expertise.

thanks
Tripp

 

I know that.... just don't freak out if you find metals and other compounds.... certain amounts are normal....all moving parts are subject to wear...