Dave,

Occassioal bits of metal are normal. That one sounds large, but I
wouldn't get two worried until there was much more. The occasional piece
tells you things are wearing, but unless there is a little collection
present not to worry. Did you cut the filter apart and wash the
contents  through a fine paint screen. That is the only true way to tell
if you are having a problem. Use a small magnet to pick up the
particles. Carbon particles won't stick, but the steel ones will stick
to the magnet, and their quantity can give you some indication of the
amount of wear taking place. Just a few, then not to worry; many, and
there is cause for concern.

As for the WIX filter, I am suspicious. I know nothing about that brand
name. Mahle or Mann you can count on. The pressure spring inside is
appropriate and will hold sufficient pressure to keep oil in the
galleries  so the valve lifters won't lose pressure with resulting valve
rattle on startup.

Good luck,

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver

Dave Baker wrote:
>
> Howdy, all.
>
> Just back from my NM trip, I decided to change the oil in my 85 Westy.
>
> 1. Now, the books say to check for bits of metal in the old oil when you
> drain it.  Last time, it was ok (about 3k miles ago).  This time, I found a
> single, paper-thin piece of metal, about 3/16 inch long and 1/16 inch wide.
> Am I in trouble?
>
> 2.  I'm trying a Wix filter (p/n 51342).  The guy at my FLAPS said it has
> one of those cool valves to retain oil when the engine is shut off.  No
> mention of this feature on the box it came in, though.  Anyone have any
> experience with these?
>
> Thanx in advance for the help.
>
> Dave in KC
> 85 Westy
> http://members.fortunecity.com/davebaker1
>
> p.s. - I'm using Quaker State 10W-40.