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Engine - Oil Discoloration

Bulletin 84-6-9

Date Nov. '83

Ref. No. 84-025-6
SUBJECT: ENGINE OIL DISCOLORATION

MODELS AFFECTED: 1984 ENGINE ASSEMBLY - ALL


Many of the engine assembly plants make use of an engine oil dye from time to time in various engines, to aid in detecting engine oil leaks during the assembly process. The dye used causes the oil to glow bright yellow when exposed to a "blacklight".

Generally, the dye material used gives the engine oil a reddish tint when viewed on the dipstick, and may have a greenish cast when viewed in a glass container. In some cases, the dyed oil has been mistaken for automatic transmission fluid or engine coolant.

The dye is in no way harmful to the engine, and the oil should not be changed if the above described conditions are encountered.