Sludge in oil filter of 2004 Chevy Silverado

[xUntamedInferno]

I just was changing my oil and when I took the oil filter out of my 2004 Chevy Silverado I noticed that there was a lot of sludge built up in the oil filter and only in the oil filter. I change my oil regularly and use full synthetic. Is there a major problem with my motor or is it something minor? My engine is the 5.3 Vortec. Any advice or solutions would be greatly appreciated!

 

[InvalidError]

It could simply be the leftover oil in the filter lifting crap out of the filter paper as it flows backwards through the paper when you drain the filter.

If the sludge looks like sooty residue, it could indicate an exhaust or combustion leak into the oil. That could be a head gasket, cylinder head blow-by, valve stem seals and likely other issues. These would be accompanied by elevated pressure in the valve cover/crank case and rapid oil fouling after a change.

 

[OuchNotThatHole]

There are still products available for flushing the system (i think redex produce it and a google search shows bell performance have products at http://www.bellperformance.com/engine-flush-sludge-remove). It might be worth trying that next time you change the filter.

If you're working on your own oil change I'm sure you're using the correct grade of oil recommended by chevy, but have you had any other problems?

 

[xUntamedInferno]

There are still products available for flushing the system (i think redex produce it and a google search shows bell performance have products at http://www.bellperformance.com/engine-flush-sludge-remove). It might be worth trying that next time you change the filter.

If you're working on your own oil change I'm sure you're using the correct grade of oil recommended by chevy, but have you had any other problems?

There has been loss of coolant without there being any sign of a leak.

 

[steve1985]

is your oil cream or milky colored?

 

[xUntamedInferno]

is your oil cream or milky colored?

No it is not.