First, there were folks using stethoscopes to listen to valve train and bearing noise in engines. Then, the chemists came along with oil analysis and mass spectrometers to figure out what was wearing and where in an engine. Later, on-board computers started keeping track of what was going on inside engines and transmissions and telling mechanics where to look for problems.

Now, sharing the tools of the bone and joint surgeon -- and the proctologist -- folks are using laproscopic video equipment to "scope out" wear and tear in engines before ever taking a wrench to them.

We got an impressive demonstration of Shell Lubricant's new LubeVideoCheck process recently, and see how the technology could save farmers some big money -- particularly if they are customers of Shell. The VideoCheck process is a value-added service Shell provides for customers with heavy-duty diesel equipment, and the folks who demonstrated it, can tell you of some great money-saving experience the technology has provided.

Using open fuel injector holes, or the crankcase drain plug opening, technicians can insert the nearly yard-long guidable fiber-optic video cable/light probe into an engine and fish it through various passages to look at cylinder walls, valve seats, piston domes, crank and rod assemblies, oil pump screens, etc. Many times, the visual inspection (which can be recorded for later comparison at subsequent "looks" within the block) can reveal problems long before they occur. Or, they can give mechanics tips on where to look later when something does crater.

For more information visit Shell Video Check