I rebuilt the engine in my 93 counttry right at 10k miles ago. I change the oil at 500, 1500, and then every 3000 after that. I even stuck a strong magnet to the bottom of the oil pan by the drain plug. Everytime i change my oil it looks like it came out of my lawn mower. Every new engine I have ever dealt with the oil was clean for at least little while. I don't know if i should be orried or not.

 

The oil is doing its job by carrying the junk away from the parts it is lubing and cooling, but you may have some blow by past the rings, running too rich, running too hot, any number of things.

 

Oil color is not the best indicator of oil condition. You should be okay.

Perform a compression test on all cylinders (wet and dry) if you are concerned.

Can also send a sample of your oil to a lab (Blackstone is one) and for around $25, they'll tell you the exact condition of your oil.

 

x2 on the compression test my first thought is that its getting contaminated from blow by passed the rings. also check to make sure that the pcv is working. also do you do a lot of short trips? Oil gets contaminated with moisture which evaporates once oil gets hot enough but you gotta drive atleast 20 minutes after it reaches 212 degrees to get all that nasties out.

 

I checked the compression when we put the engine in and it was fine. I have not check it since but i did pulled the plugs and they looked ok. I live 45 mins away from work, so its getting driven enough. I just switched to the bigger oil filter so we'll see what that does.

 

Oil is part detergent. It's doing its job.