CAT® CERTIFIED FLUID ANALYSIS LAB
SOS Fluid Analysis: Essential for Proactive Machine Health
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Identify potential problems early and prevent major repairs
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Reduce unplanned downtime with proactive maintenance planning
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Track component wear and extend equipment life
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Protect machine value and lower total cost of ownership
At Western States, S•O•S 2.0 brings a smarter, more connected approach to fluid analysis. Powered by advanced analytics and seamlessly integrated with VisionLink®, the updated platform makes it easier to understand equipment conditions and move quickly from results to action. Designed for operations of any size, S•O•S 2.0 delivers a cleaner, more intuitive experience that supports proactive maintenance and helps protect your investment.
SOS UPDATES COMING IN 2026
Streamlined Sampling
View asset and fluid health in one place withseamless VisionLink® integration. Submit samples instantly using QR codes through theVisionLink Mobile app or Cat® Inspect—no labels, no extra steps. Track sample status and notifications through a streamlined interface built around your workflow.
Smarter Maintenance Recommendations
Keep data consistent with a single asset record across systems. Enhanced analytics deliver more reliable service recommendations, proactive alerts, and early warnings to help prevent unplanned downtime.
Insights You Can Act On
Clear, easy‑to‑read reports help you make faster decisions. Receive real‑time alerts with recommended next steps, request dealer service, or order parts directly within VisionLink—just a click away.
CUSTOMER RESOURCES
ONE LAB. ALL FLUIDS TESTED.
OIL ANALYSIS
We offer a comprehensive analysis of all major lubricated systems which includes (but is not limited to) engines, transmissions, hydraulics, final drives, differentials, gearboxes and compressors. Every analysis includes a Metal Analysis, Viscosity, Infra-Red (Soot, Oxidation, Sulfation, Nitration), and particle count on all filtered components.
Oil analysis allows us to identify signs of early wear as well as identify contaminants such as water, fuel, glycol or dirt that can hinder performance. In addition, Total Acid Number and Total Base Number test kits are available for purchase.
COOLANT ANALYSIS
Routine analysis of your machine’s coolant is important in maintaining equipment health. Damage to equipment due to overheating is something that is hard to recover from. Our lab tests your coolant to ensure that it has the right chemical balance for maximum protection and cooling capabilities.
Level 1 test package: coolant analysis is comprised of four analytical tests (glycol percent, pH, conductivity, nitrates) and four physical properties (color, odor, appearance, and precipitate).
Level 2 test package: coolant analysis is a complete analysis of the coolant condition. Includes everything in Level I test plus metal corrosion rates, other contaminants and built-up impurities which point to acid pitting potential and scaling problems.
FUEL ANALYSIS
Low-quality or contaminated fuel can negatively impact the performance and health of your equipment. We offer three different levels of diesel fuel analysis to provide you with reliable results.
HOW TO GET STARTED:
Order Your Kit
Purchase a fluid sample kit at Parts.cat.com by using the purchase links from the dropdown menu.
PRE-REGISTER SAMPLE
Login to VisionLink and scan the QR code on the label that comes with your sample kit. Fill out your labels digitally to save time and money. Download the app on your mobile device, available on Google Play and the App Store.
NEXT STEPS TO GETTING YOUR FLUIDS ANALYZED
Collect Your Samples
Pull your samples yourself or give us a call and let us know you’d like to have one of our technicians come out and do it for you!
Ship Your Samples
Send your samples to the Fluid Analysis Lab using the pre-paid shipping labels or drop them off at your nearest Western States location.
Receive & Review Results
Once your results are ready they will be uploaded onto your VisionLink portal. A certified interpreter can help you understand what the results mean for you and your machines.