2000 Jeep Wrangler Particles in Oil

JJACKV

MEMBER
2000 JEEP WRANGLER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
80,000 MILES

About a week ago I noticed what appeared to be transmission fluid in my radiator. I replaced the radiator, dropped the transmission pan and replaced the filter. After filling with the proper fluid levels, I ran the jeep for a few minutes. I noticed water spitting out the exhaust, leaving a dark gray residue. I checked the oil and noticed small, dark particles on the dipstick. I changed the oil the day before I changed out the radiator and transmission filter.

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,755 POSTS

Hi jjackv.

What's the question? If you're worried about the water at the tail pipe, it is likely condensed water vapor. That and carbon dioxide are byproducts of the catalytic converter. Often there will be a black film of carbon floating on top of the water. Nothing to be concerned about.

Good to hear you did the transmission service after the radiator. Transmission fluid or engine oil in the coolant will cause soft mushy radiator hoses. I don't know what would happen to transmission seals if antifreeze gets in there. The transmission cooler lines usually have higher pressures than the maximum 15 psi of the cooling system, so you're less likely to see coolant in the transmission.

Gold flecks in the engine oil could be signs of bearings flaking apart. I can't imagine what dark particles would be unless you're seeing an additive. Being the oil is only a day old, I guess I'd watch to see if more shows up later. If the particles become fewer, I would have to suggest they're nothing to worry about. If they are some kind of additive, you will find the same particles in the empty oil containers.

Caradiodoc