How to extend oil drain intervals

​In our current economy, with rising prices for fuel, many truck owner/operators and fleet managers seek out ways to reduce costs.  Extending service intervals is one that is considered most frequently. Skipping a service completely is not a good idea and in time will lead to negative results.  But what choice do they have?  Instead of skipping service intervals completely, Operators should consider using a top tier Oil and extending drain intervals but change filters at regular service intervals.  The oil analysis utilized by many shops is little more than a litmus paper test to find the existence of antifreeze in the oil. While that test is important, it does not indicate whether the oil has life left as a lubricant and detergents still viable for service in the crankcase. Most engines in tractors hauling heavy freight have crankcase capacities of over 40 Litres (quarts).  Good oil will cost between $10 - $15 / litre (quart). To drain this amount of oil while still viable service life exists is to throw a lot of money away.  An independent Lab that is set up to test oil for contamination along side lubricating qualities and detergent viability would cost about $50.  This is by far less costly than an oil drain and refill costing close to $500.  Replacing filters and lubricating ball and socket joints and other grease fittings on trucks and trailers with a synthetic grease should be the minimum preventative maintenance performed.  This will help reduce costs and keep rolling inventory working and making money.