How do I get started?
- Create an account on VisionLink.
- Purchase one or more sampling kits from Parts.Cat.Com (PCC) or order them over the phone on 1300 881 064.
- Take your sample/s by following our training resources if required.
- Send those samples to WesTrac using the pre-paid postage bag inside the sampling kits you previously purchased from PCC.
Within 24-48 hours of the sample being received by our lab, you'll be able to access your fluid analysis results on Cat S•O•S Web.
Is fluid sampling included in my FitFleet® Customer Value Agreement (CVA)?
Fluid health advice for preventative maintenance is included as part FitFleet Plus, Premium and Ultimate CVAs. To find out more, click here or contact the S•O•S Team here.
Are WesTrac labs ISO 9001 certified?
Yes, our state-of-the-art in-house laboratory is ISO 9001 certified, NATA accredited and staffed by specially trained technicians, who are all experienced in a wide range of equipment brands.
How fast will I receive test results?
The fluid analysis process takes a maximum 24-48 hours from when the sample is received by the lab.
What is detected when a test is conducted?
More than 30 characteristics are evaluated from each fluid sample. For example, when we test oil, we'll do four different types of analysis.
- Wear Analysis - monitors wear by detecting, identifying, and assessing the amount of additives and type of wear metal elements in the fluid, and confirms if the correct oil is being used and whether fuel or oil is entering from another compartment.
- Oil Cleanliness Analysis - uses a Particle Count test for non-engine oil. It detects both metallic and non-metallic debris generated by wear, as well as outside source contaminates.
- Oil Condition Analysis - determines loss of the oil’s lubricating properties and whether the oil is performing up to specification during the entire oil change period using an infrared analysis instrument.
- Oil Contamination Analysis - determines the presence of external contaminants. Fuel, water, or glycol contamination indicates problems exist that require immediate correction.
How do I access my test results?
You can view and analyse your fluid sample information online using Cat S•O•S Web. You'll be able to do this anywhere and anytime you have an internet connection. You can also access your results via the VisionLink Unified Suite. On request, we can also arrange to have your results emailed. To tell you when results are available, we use SMS alerts.
Does WesTrac offer assistance or training?
Yes, on request. If you contact our SOS Team here and request assistance or training. We can arrange various forms of assistance:
- Telephone Assistance
- Helpful How-To PDF Documents
- Training Videos
- Free Monthly Webinars (for new and existing users)
I have a mixed fleet, is that a problem?
Not at all. We offer fluid analysis for all types of products, whether they are made by Caterpillar or another OEM, for applications ranging from agriculture and aviation, to landscaping and landfill, to mining, marine and more. In fact, about 50% of all our fluid samples come from other brands. We are your total fluid analysis solution providing the quality and quickness you deserve across your entire fleet.
How many samples does WesTrac test every year?
WesTrac process approximately 500,000+ fluid tests every year, across both states.
When should I sample my equipment?
We recommend your samples are taken from fluid compartments as per the manufacturer's Operations Maintenance Manual. On highway trucks should be sampled every 25,000 km or at each oil change.