Global Heavy Equipment Inspections

Changing the hour meter reading at Caterpillar

How is it possible to edit the hour meter on my CAT machine? Is there a possibility to change hour reading on the ECM or ECU of the machine? Can I do this with the CAT Electronic Technician? Will it be possible to see the attempt to change the hours? 

Do I need a factory passkey?

Some interesting questions, do you agree? I wonder why someone is asking Google for it. Does he want to betray a potential buyer? Some forums are full of those questions. Obviously many people have an interest to reduce the hour meter reading.

If you go to Google and start a search Google-Instant will show you the most relevant entries. It means Google proposes what many others are looking for. The screenshots I made are shoing there is a high interest in this issue. Most relevant search is Caterpillar Hour Meter Reset 🙁

How can you avoid to become a victim of hour meter fraud?

The answer is easy. Send a professional inspector to check the machine on your behalf before you purchase it. I will keep this post updated how many clicks it got from the Google search. It will show how many people are looking for this topic.

Contact us for more info on this topic. We work inthe field of used machinery inspections for more than 20 years.

Is it possible and legal to change the hour meter reading?

Yes, it is technically possible to change the service hour meter reading on a used heavy machine. However, it is illegal in many jurisdictions as it involves tampering with the machine’s records, which could be considered as fraud or misrepresentation.

In some countries, tampering with hour meter readings is a serious violation of the law and can result in heavy fines or even imprisonment.

It is always recommended to buy used heavy equipment from a reputable source and have a thorough inspection performed by a professional inspector to ensure accurate hour meter readings and the overall condition of the machine.

Checking an excavator or bulldozer undercarriage components to know their remaining life

The most expensive and most important assembly when evaluating a bulldozer is certainly the undercarriage. Therefore, when inspecting bulldozers, we pay special attention to the condition of the undercarriage. We have reference values for Caterpillar machines and measure all components. This allows us to accurately determine the remaining service life. We have created an instruction in which we explain our procedure step by step. Click here to watch it. After watching you know what to look for when measuring the track shoes, sprockets, track links, bushings and idlers. If you are not sure about measuring or have any questions – just contact us.

Is this service included in an Mevas inspection?

Yes, on request and for larger machines this service is included for tracked machines from Caterpillar. We do measure all components. Remaining life values will be calculated with the CAT CTS Undercarriage Handbook. When inspecting machines of other brands, we assess the remaining service life based on our experience. Click here for our video explaining the measurement of the undercarriage step by step.

Since the undercarriage is one of the most expensive components on these machines and can be very expensive to replace, we recommend special attention to inspection here. If you are looking to buy a second hand machine in Europe – get the remaining life of the U/C confirmed by MEVAS.

Which tools can be used to measure U/C components?

To measure undercarriage components of a track type tractor or an excavator, the following tools can be used:

1. Track Gauge or meter – It is used to measure the track gauge, or the distance between the tracks, to ensure that it is within the manufacturer’s specifications.
2. Track Roller Caliper – It is used to measure the diameter of the track rollers and the wear on the bottom of the track roller.
3. Idler Pin Gauge – It is used to measure the idler’s diameter and the wear on the idler’s bearing surfaces.
4. Ultrasonic Gauge – It is used to measure the thickness of the track links and the wear on the bushings.
5. Chain Wear Gauge – It is used to measure the wear on the track chain and to determine if the chain needs to be replaced.
6. Shoe Height Gauge – It is used to measure the wear on the track shoe and to determine if the shoe needs to be replaced.

By using these tools, it is possible to accurately measure the wear on the undercarriage components and determine when they need to be replaced or repaired, which helps to extend the life of the track type tractor and reduce maintenance costs.

What about wear in other undercarriage components?

Other important points when inspecting a used dozer are the play in the joints and bearings, especially in the so-called equalizer bar. This cross member connects the right and left undercarriage frames on many bulldozers. Together with the pivots in the rear area of ​​the drive frame, this cross member enables the drives to move horizontally. If you want to know more – get here to a short film. Make sure  that you look for these points, otherwise very expensive repairs may become necessary.

This service for undercarriages is just a part of our wide portfolio. We know about engines, hydraulic pumps, swing bearings and machine valuation.

Where can I find a professional inspector?

Mevas is the leading service for global used machinery inspections. Based in Germany the company has a global network of inspectors.

We would like to introduce ourselves briefly: Mevas has been testing the condition of heavy used machinery for over 19 years now. The idea came about because the owner of the company, in his previous job, had to realise when buying used machines that the machines sold were often in worse condition than stated by the seller.

So the idea was born to check the machines carefully before purchasing them. We do this for a growing clientele from all over the world. In the same way, we offer this service to sellers to make it easier to sell the machines with an inspection by an independent third party.

What does an Mevas inspection report contain?

We create a structured inspection report for every type of used construction machine or vehicle.

At the beginning, the inspector records the machine’s equipment and configuration. This includes checking whether the unit has air conditioning, additional hydraulic lines, a dozer blade (on excavators), a CE certificate, or a quick coupler. Hour meter reading is taken.

The actual inspection then starts. First, the cab is examined in detail: seat condition, switches, display instruments, air conditioning, windows, mirrors, and windscreen wipers are checked carefully.

Next comes the engine inspection. After verifying the operating fluids such as coolant and oil condition, the engine is started. The inspector checks for unusual smoke, abnormal noises, or other signs of increased wear.

Following the engine, the machine’s external components are examined. This includes the frame, boom or lift arm, all doors and hatches, storage compartments, lighting, and paintwork.

The inspection then focuses on the hydraulic system. Hoses, cylinders, and hydraulic pumps are checked for leaks, while the hydraulic pump and valve block are evaluated for noises or pressure issues.

Once these checks are complete, the functional test begins. Here, the inspector observes:

• Play in joints and linkages
• Proper drive performance
• Unusual noises
• Whether all functions operate normally

Depending on the type of machine, relevant attachments such as buckets or shovels are also inspected and their details recorded.

Finally, the tyres or undercarriage are checked for wear and assessed in detail. In the last section of the inspection report, any additional remarks are documented. The inspector concludes with a summary comment on the machine’s overall condition, and in most reports, the transport dimensions are also included.

Which used heavy machines can be inspected?

Mevas inspectors can perform inspections for:

1. Excavators (track excavators, mobile excavators, min diggers, quarry shovels)
2. Bulldozers and Tracked Loaders
3. Loaders (Wheel Loaders, Skid Steer Loaders, Backhoe Loaders)
4. Graders and Wheel dozers
5. Dump Trucks
6. Compactors for Soil and Waste
7. Rollers (Vibratory Rollers, Pneumatic Rollers, Tandem Rollers)
8. Scrapers and Bucket Dozers
9. Off-Highway Trucks and on the Road Trucks
10. Drilling Rigs, Pile Drivers, Surface Drills, Civil Engineering Machinery
11. Concrete Mixers, concrete pumps and readymix trucks
12. Pavers for Asphalt and Concrete
13. Telehandlers, Telescopic Forklifts
14. Trenchers, Milling Machines, Reclaimer and Recycler
15. Reach Stackers and Container Handlers
16. Agricultural Tractors, Combines, Harvester

This list is not exhaustive, but covers the most commonly used earthmoving and construction machines. The specific machines used for a construction project depends on the type and scope of the work, as well as the local conditions and regulations.

There is a more recent version of the info about oil sampling available!

Why take oil samples from heavy used machinery?

Analyzing the oils used in construction machinery can be useful to get information about wear from the contents of the used oil. An analysis of the existing oils only makes sense if you have an approximate idea of ​​how long the oil was in use. If the oil has only recently been changed, an analysis of the condition is not very useful. There are then too few analyzable particles in the oil. If the oil used is much older than permitted, i.e. the change intervals have been significantly exceeded, the values ​​will also be incorrect. But if the oil is in a normal change cycle, you can read a lot of information from the trace elements. It is therefore important to know whether the prescribed maintenance intervals on the construction machine have been observed.

How to take an oil sample from heavy used machinery?

For meaningful results, it is necessary to warm up the machine first. Otherwise there will be many particles deposited on the bottom of the oil pan or in the filter. The oil must therefore be vigorously moved and the viscosity increased in order to obtain meaningful results. Then use a very clean container and a pump to remove the oil, e.g. from the engine/the hydraulic circuit or from the gearbox. The extracted oils need to be sent to a certified laboratory. There, the lubricants are analyzed for their ingredients using various methods. It can be used to determine whether there are increased levels of silicon, sulphur, copper, coolant or other trace elements in the oil.

What can I read from the results?

A professional laboratory for the analysis of construction machine oils usually provides us with an interpretation of the analyzed values. Too much silicon means dirt gets into the machine’s systems and you have to look at where and how dirt gets into the system. If coolant is found in the engine oil, there is a problem in the cooling system. If traces of aluminum are found in the transmission oil, one can conclude that there is increased wear in some components. The same applies to the presence of chromium, copper or magnesium.

Mevas offers oil sampling as additional service during inspections. As soon as we have the results of an oil analysis, our technicians will advise you and describe the possible causes. A hint is given on what to do to avoid early problems. Do you have any questions? Contact us today.

What is an oil analysis useful for on excavators and wheel loaders?

Oil analysis, also known as fluid analysis or lubricant analysis, is a valuable diagnostic tool used in the maintenance and management of excavators and wheel loaders, as well as other heavy equipment. Here are some of the key benefits and purposes of oil analysis for these machines:

1. Condition Monitoring: Oil analysis provides a way to monitor the overall condition of the equipment. By analyzing oil samples regularly, maintenance personnel can detect early signs of wear, contamination, and potential issues, allowing for proactive maintenance.
2. Component Health Assessment: Oil analysis can reveal the health of critical components such as engines, hydraulic systems, and transmissions. It can help identify wear and tear on internal parts like bearings, gears, and seals.
3. Early Problem Detection: Detecting problems at an early stage can prevent costly breakdowns and major repairs. Oil analysis can identify issues such as abnormal wear, contamination, and fluid degradation before they lead to major failures.
4. Fluid Quality Assessment: It assesses the quality and condition of the lubricating oils, hydraulic fluids, and other fluids used in the machine. This information helps ensure that the fluids are within the manufacturer’s specifications, promoting optimal performance.
5. Contamination Detection: Oil analysis can identify the presence of contaminants, such as dirt, water, and other foreign materials in the lubricants. Contaminants can cause damage and reduce the efficiency of critical components.
6. Fluid Change Intervals: By monitoring the condition of the oils and fluids, equipment operators can determine the optimal time to change or replace them, reducing unnecessary maintenance costs.
7. Extended Component Life: Effective oil analysis and timely maintenance can extend the life of key components, such as engines, hydraulic systems, and transmissions, resulting in cost savings over the long term.
8. Performance Optimization: Oil analysis can help ensure that the machine operates at its peak performance by maintaining clean, properly lubricated components.
9. Environmental Impact Reduction: Proper maintenance, guided by oil analysis, reduces the risk of fluid leaks and component failures, minimizing the environmental impact of equipment operation.
10. Cost Savings: Regular oil analysis can lead to cost savings through reduced downtime, lower repair and replacement costs, and improved equipment reliability.
11. Warranty Compliance: For equipment under warranty, oil analysis can help ensure that maintenance practices comply with the manufacturer’s requirements, preserving warranty coverage.

In summary, oil analysis is a valuable tool for excavators and wheel loaders, as it aids in the early detection of problems, extends the life of components, optimizes performance, reduces maintenance costs, and contributes to efficient equipment management. It is an essential part of a comprehensive maintenance and reliability program for heavy equipment. On a MEVAS TA-2 inspection an oil analysis is always included.

Excavator inspection checklist and what to approve

Inspection of used excavators is not everyone’s daily business. Less experienced technician sometimes miss important items such as a leaking swivel, play in swing bearing, cracks in boom or worn idler guides. A good strategy before you inspect used equipment is using a detailed inspection checklist. For excavators or any other machinery you need to check or get checked. So you make sure to check every component and make sure no important item will be missed. Here you can find a sample for such an checklist.

Mevas excavator inspection checklist

If no own engineer is available for the inspection – talk to Mevas. We have local technicians in more than 22 countries and can access other places easily.

Which items should be inspected during an excavator inspection?

During inspection of a used track excavator, the following items should be inspected:

1. Engine and transmission (wheel excavator)
2. Hydraulic system and pumps, pump drive
3. Undercarriage components and tires on wheel excavators
4. Cab and controls
5. Boom and stick
6. Bucket and teeth
7. Electrical system, ECM, ECU, monitoring system and alert lights
8. Swing bearing and swing gear

It is important to inspect each of these items thoroughly, as they are critical components that affect the excavator’s performance and overall condition. Some of these items are more critical than others, such as the engine and hydraulic system, which directly impact the excavator’s power and operation, while others, such as the cab and controls, affect the operator’s comfort and safety. The importance of each item will depend on the specific use case and requirements for the machine.

What are the important assemblies of a crawler excavator?

A crawler excavator is a complex piece of heavy machinery designed for digging, excavation, and earthmoving tasks. It consists of several important assemblies and components that work together to perform various functions. Here are the key assemblies of a typical crawler excavator:

Main items

1. Crawler Tracks: The crawler tracks are a critical component that allows the excavator to move on various terrains. They consist of a system of tracks or chains, sprockets, and rollers.
2. Undercarriage: The undercarriage includes the lower frame of the excavator and houses the crawler tracks, rollers, and sprockets. It provides stability and mobility to the machine.
3. Upper Structure: The upper structure houses the engine, operator’s cabin, and hydraulic systems. It is the part of the excavator that rotates and pivots on the undercarriage.
4. Engine: Crawler excavators typically use diesel engines for their high torque and reliability.
5. Hydraulic System: The hydraulic system powers the various functions of the excavator, including the boom, arm, bucket, and other attachments. It controls the flow and pressure of hydraulic fluid to operate the machine’s movements.
6. Boom: The boom is an extendable arm that is attached to the upper structure and is used for reaching and lifting.
7. Arm: The arm, also known as the dipper arm or stick, is connected to the boom and can be extended and retracted.
8. Bucket: The bucket is attached to the arm and is used for digging, scooping, and loading materials. Buckets come in various sizes and configurations for different tasks.
9. Operator’s Cabin: The operator’s cabin is where the machine is controlled. It houses the controls, displays, and a comfortable seat for the operator.
10. Counterweight: The counterweight is a heavy weight placed at the rear of the excavator to balance the weight of the front-end attachments and prevent the machine from tipping over.
11. Hydraulic Cylinders: These are responsible for moving and controlling the boom, arm, and bucket. They extend and retract to perform digging and lifting operations.
12. Control System: The control system includes joysticks, pedals, and buttons in the operator’s cabin that allow the operator to control the various movements and functions of the excavator.
13. Attachments: Crawler excavators can be equipped with various attachments such as grapples, breakers, thumbs, and more, depending on the specific job requirements.

Summary

These are the fundamental assemblies and components of a crawler excavator. The combination of these elements enables the machine to perform a wide range of excavation and construction tasks with precision and efficiency.

What is different between a tracked and a wheel excavator?

A wheel excavator, as the name suggests, differs from a crawler excavator primarily in its mode of mobility. While the basic functions and components are similar, the wheel excavator is mounted on wheels instead of crawler tracks. Here are the key differences between a wheel excavator and a crawler excavator:

Mobility:

• Crawler Excavator: It is equipped with crawler tracks that provide excellent stability and traction on uneven or soft terrain. Crawler excavators are often used in rough and challenging terrains, including construction sites, mines, and forestry operations.
• Wheel Excavator: Wheel excavators are mounted on wheels, similar to a typical vehicle. They are more suitable for operating on roads or other solid surfaces. Wheel excavators offer greater speed and mobility on paved or firm ground, making them well-suited for urban construction or roadwork.

Undercarriage:

• Crawler Excavator: It has a heavy undercarriage that houses the crawler tracks, rollers, and sprockets, which provide stability and distribute the machine’s weight evenly over a larger surface area.
• Wheel Excavator: The undercarriage of a wheel excavator consists of wheels and tires, which are more similar to those of a truck or a vehicle. This undercarriage is designed for improved road travel.

Ground Pressure:

• Crawler Excavator: Crawler excavators have a lower ground pressure due to the larger surface area of their tracks, making them suitable for work in soft or sensitive terrains without causing as much ground damage.
• Wheel Excavator: Wheel excavators typically have a higher ground pressure compared to crawler excavators. This can make them less suitable for soft or sensitive ground conditions.

Versatility:

• Crawler Excavator: Crawler excavators are known for their versatility in off-road applications and rough terrains. They can handle a wide range of tasks, from digging and lifting to forestry work.
• Wheel Excavator: Wheel excavators are more specialized for tasks that involve frequent movement between job sites on solid surfaces. They are often used for urban construction, road maintenance, and tasks that require frequent relocation.

Speed and Travel:

• Crawler Excavator: While crawler excavators are slower when it comes to road travel, they excel in off-road mobility and stability.
• Wheel Excavator: Wheel excavators can travel at higher speeds on roads and are better suited for tasks that involve longer travel distances between worksites.

In summary, the main difference between a wheel excavator and a crawler excavator is their mobility and undercarriage. Wheel excavators are designed for jobs that require frequent movement on roads and solid surfaces, while crawler excavators excel in off-road applications and challenging terrains. The choice between the two types of excavators depends on the specific job requirements and operating conditions.

Have a professional service inspection excavators before you buy

Protect your investment and buy with confidence—MEVAS inspection experts uncover hidden defects, prevent costly surprises, and provide objective condition reports for any used machine. Gain negotiation power, extend equipment lifespan, and ensure safe operations by choosing independent, professional machine inspections before purchase.

How to find info about service history of used heavy machinery?

When investing in used construction machinery, especially larger machines, reliable background information is not just useful—it’s essential. A machine’s value stands or falls with its service and component history. You should always ask: When was the engine replaced? Has the hydraulic pump been overhauled? Were the axles changed? When was the last full service carried out, and how old are the operating oils? These details make the difference between a solid investment and a costly mistake.

The reality of the used equipment market is that machines often have complex, hidden journeys. A wheel loader offered in Holland may not have worked there at all—it could just as easily have come from Romania, Finland, or even further afield. Without reliable data, you’re left guessing.

Get machines inspected before you purchase. Ask us for a quotation.

Unfortunately, many sellers prefer not to disclose where their machines originated or what kind of work history they have. While that may not be critical if you’re buying a small mini-excavator, it becomes vital with heavy-duty equipment. If you’re considering a 300-horsepower wheel loader, you absolutely need to know how the machine was treated in the past and whether it has been maintained in line with the manufacturer’s specifications.

One of the most decisive questions is whether key components such as the original engine and transmission are still installed. If this information is missing, it’s nearly impossible to accurately estimate the remaining service life—and that uncertainty carries significant financial risk.

In short: don’t leave such a major investment to chance. The more documentation and transparency you secure upfront, the safer your decision will be—and the longer your machine will deliver reliable performance on site.

Forensic search for info about machine maintenance

The best way to find out this information is to do a thorough inspection and look for information about the origin of the machine, e.g. on the stickers in the cabin. If the dealer or seller does not want to provide the information, you can also call the manufacturer’s service partner in the respective country, where you might get the missing information. During an inspection with a contractor one can usually get some info from the local service staff.

Downloading machine info from ECU

On some machines the local dealer or an inspection service such as Mevas can download a summary from the machine ECU or ECM. Especially for Caterpillar and Volvo we can provide such service. The summary contains info about error codes, overheating or engine overspeeding. In some cases we can support with phone contact to service providers in other countries. Due our large network in the international machinery industry we know many people in various countries. Contact us please for a quotation and more info.

What is a Caterpillar PSR? How can you obtain it?

The PSR is the so-called Product Status Report. It can be downloaded from the internal ECM’s of a CAT machine or any other machine with a Caterpillar engine. To download you would need a CAT-ET, the so-called Electronic Technician. CAT dealer staff and services such as Mevas can do this for you. By the way, in a Mevas TA2 the PSR is included.

What information does the PSR document contain?

The PSR contains some important information such as:

• Engine lifetime hours
• Transmission lifetime hours
• Hydraulic Configuration
• Lifetime fuel consumption
• Injector Calibration Status
• Diagnostic Codes (Error Codes)
• Lifetime Temperatures for various components
• Tool Configuration

Be carefully when you purchase from unknown suppliers

Searching for dependable used equipment can be a challenging endeavor. It’s crucial to thoroughly assess the condition of any secondhand machinery before making a purchase, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the seller.

What should you consider and investigate?

1. Evaluate the Seller: If you’re unfamiliar with the seller, exercise extra caution. We’ll delve deeper into this aspect in the following section.
2. Working Hours Analysis: Scrutinize the machine’s working hours. Do they align with the machine’s overall condition and its year of manufacture? Try to gather information about the machine’s history from the seller to gain a clearer picture. Did they change the hour meter recently?
3. Inspect for Wear and Tear: Examine the machine for any signs of wear and tear. Check the condition of essential components such as the ROPS, chassis, boom/stick for dents, bends, re-welded areas, or small cracks. Avoid purchasing equipment that might lead to costly issues down the road.
4. Hydraulic System Assessment: Take a close look at the hydraulic system. Are the hydraulic oil levels within the normal range or too high? In the case of excess hydraulic oil, investigate for potential leaks.
5. Tire and Undercarriage Examination: Tires and undercarriage components can represent a substantial cost. Assess the remaining service life of the tires and drive components to gauge potential future expenses.
6. Functional Test/Test Drive: After scrutinizing the above aspects, conduct a function test or a test drive. Start the machine to observe its performance, and listen for any unusual noises or exhaust emissions. This step is vital in ensuring the equipment’s functionality.
7. Attachments Inspection: If attachments are included in the sale, perform a thorough visual inspection with a reasonable checklist to verify their condition and compatibility.

By paying careful attention to these seven critical factors, you can make a more informed decision when considering the purchase of used equipment.

More technical details:

Another important note

We want to remind you to be carefully when negotiating heavy equipment which is offered on the Internet. A few of those sites have just been created for fraud.

Be attentive if: 

1. Machine price is far lower than for comparable units
2. The seller makes pressure to decide very quickly: He pretends other people are interested in the same machine.
3. The seller has just a mobile phone number and no landline.
4. The seller requests a down-payment to reserve the machine.

We are Mevas – The Heavy Equipment Inspectors

Hopefully our list has been helpful to you. If you are unsure about any of the points, just get in touch with us. This is our WhatsApp. We inspect machines like excavators, wheel loaders, dumpers, graders, rollers, material handlers and dozers every day and know these machines very well.

Engine Blow-By: An Overview

A combustion engine operates by burning fuel in a cylinder, where a piston moves up and down. The piston is sealed towards the cylinder by piston rings. However, a certain amount of exhaust gas escapes from the combustion chamber into the crankcase housing, which is referred to as “blow-by.” A visual representation of this can be found at diesel.net. So the question now is how to measure engine blow-by or estimate the volume.

Checking the Engine for Blow-By

When inspecting a used machine, it is essential to assess the engine for the amount of blow-by. By measuring the amount of escaping gas, an experienced inspector can estimate the engine wear. Typically, this can be done by placing a hand on top of the oil filler tube and checking for the amount of blow. The inspector will also examine the smell of the gas for any signs of burned oil or coolant in the engine lubrication system.

On larger engines, it may be necessary to measure the blow-by and compare it with the manufacturer’s specifications. Some inspectors may be equipped with a gauge, called an anemometer, for this purpose. However, it is important for the inspector to have a good understanding of the engine configuration as not all gas escapes through the oil filler tube. Some engines may have a certain amount of blow-by even when new. Inspectors opening filler tubes on Perkins engines can tell stories about it.

Examining Engine Condition through Exhaust Fumes

Experienced technicians can use the appearance and smell of the exhaust fumes to determine the condition of the engine. For example, if the engine is burning oil, the technician may detect a burnt oil odour. The colour and amount of smoke can also provide insights into the engine’s condition. Engine smoke can appear white, grey, grey-blue, or black. If the smoke appears abnormal, the inspector may need to examine the engine systems closely for issues such as malfunctioning injectors or coolant entering the engine lubrication.

Engine oil sampling

Last but not least it is an option to send an oil sample for analysis. A certified lab will provide info about oil condition and containment. Engineers can read a lot from sample as long as it is known how long the engine oil was in use.

Using an inspection app

We are often approached by developers of machinery inspection apps, who believe that anyone can perform an inspection with the right application and guidelines. However, from our perspective, it is still necessary for an inspector to have several years of experience with machines and engines to accurately assess the engine’s condition.

Do you wish to read a version of this article in German language?

What is engine blow-by and how can it be determined?

Engine blow-by is a critical issue that affects the health and efficiency of any combustion engine. Blow-by occurs when combustion gases escape past the piston rings and enter the crankcase instead of remaining within the combustion chamber. This leakage leads to increased oil contamination, reduced engine power, and possible long-term damage.

Detecting blow-by early can save time and money. Watch for signs like white smoke emerging from the oil filler cap or dipstick tube, excessive oil consumption, rough idling, or a noticeable reduction in performance. Take quick action if you notice these symptoms, as they signal that unburned fuel and contaminants are entering your crankcase.

To determine blow-by, perform a simple oil filler cap test while the engine runs—smoke or fumes indicate possible problems. For more accuracy, professional compression tests or cylinder leak-down tests help pinpoint whether piston rings or valves need attention. Measuring crankcase pressure with specialized tools provides confirmation and reveals the extent of blow-by.

Protect your engine—address blow-by symptoms promptly, maintain regular service intervals, and rely on proven diagnostic methods for optimal performance. Preventive care keeps your engine running cleaner and longer, ensuring reliable operation and extended lifespan. Engage a MEVAS inspector to check engines on used machines prior to purchase.