Crackle Test: How to Detect Water-Contaminated Oil using the Crackle Test

Visual inspection of water-contaminated oil will often now show the contamination. Use a crackle test to see if your oil has been contaminated with water. Weller Truck Parts explains the process here.
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[@pamellakatohiguchi9157]

Hello, could you tell me if this test works for diesel? Thanks

[@SocialPerspective101]

Excellent !

[@WellerTruckParts]

Glad you like it!

[@SocialPerspective101]

​@@WellerTruckPartsSo take out a teaspoonful ATF thru dipstick and put it in a pre heated frying pan. If you see bubbles, drain & fill 4 times !

[@StefanDc4kjs]

Nice Video. Again what learned👍

[@WellerTruckParts]

Thank you, Stefan!
Glad you enjoyed it!

[@sksharma9686]

Nyc video

[@vin605]

Wow !

[@suzannerhodes4795]

What was the % water contamination in the oil sample from the failed transmission?

[@badavidson30]

Lab analysis on the final example: The sample appears cloudy and water is present at .46%. Antifreeze is present in the sample. This shows an internal coolant leak that is getting into the oil and SEVERE internal wear.

[@SocialPerspective101]

So 2.3ml water in 1 liter ATF is detremental to transmission health? Does the clutch plate friction material of transmissions really come off at such tiny % water contamination?

[@WellerTruckParts]

Thank you for the question! Unfortunately, yes. According to the Allison Transmissions Service Tip #1898, Rev. B "Transmission fluid containing greater than 0.2% water by volume, regardless of whether it contains glycols or not, is considered contaminated and should not be used." Reference the Allison Service Tip for additional information.
Thanks

[@SocialPerspective101]

@@WellerTruckParts Thanks ! This frankly scares me. I will syringe out some ATF & perform this test soon. I have not changed mine for a long time since its still red.