Metal in oil pan Detroit s60 12.7

I’m no technician but that sure looks like brass to me.


Finding brass or copper particles in the oil pan of a Detroit Diesel Series 60 12.7L usually points to a failing bronze/brass bushing or thrust surface in the gear train, rocker assembly, or oil pump.

Common Sources of Brass/Copper Debris

• Bull Gear and Gear Train: The gear train on the front of the engine uses bushings and thrust plates that contain bronze/brass. A failing bull gear or accessory drive gear bushing will shed brass particles into the oil supply before a catastrophic failure.
• Rocker Arm Bushings / Cam Followers: The rocker arm assembly contains brass bushings. Excessive wear, pitting, or failing roller shafts can release brass shavings.
• Oil Pump: Internal bronze bushings or side-clearance wear inside the oil pump can flake brass into the pan.
• Connecting Rod / Main Bearings: While standard tri-metal bearings have a copper/brass intermediate layer before hitting the steel backing, heavy bearing failure usually turns the oil gray/black with silver and copper glitter. Distinct brass chunks or flakes point more directly to bushings.

 

I'd look and make sure the thrust washers are still there, and make sure you see no damage to the liners or pistons. Push the clutch in, then take a pry bar and pry the balancer towards the radiator and see if it moves.

Likely it's in the front cover.

Pull the accy drive and look at the bull gear and check for play.