S•O•S Fluid Analysis Services
Keeping your heavy equipment in top condition is critical for reducing downtime and boosting productivity. At Thompson Tractor, our scheduled oil sampling (S•O•S) services offer a proactive approach to equipment health. Our services identify potential issues before they lead to expensive repairs and breakdowns. Our expert team will give you insights into your equipment, protecting your investment for years.
Starting February 27, 2026, VisionLink will be required for:
- Submitting and tracking samples
- Viewing and graphing sample history
- Viewing or downloading sample reports
S•O•S Web and all existing S•O•S reporting — including emailed PDF reports — will no longer be available as of March 2, 2026. Set up your notifications and scheduled reports in VisionLink now to continue receiving emailed sample alerts and results.
What is Cat S•O•S Services?
Cat S•O•S Services, offered by Thompson Tractor, combines easy-to-use fluid sampling kits, comprehensive laboratory analysis, and clear reporting through VisionLink. By sending in your fluid samples, you receive detailed health insights to help identify issues early — before they become costly failures.
How To Get Started
- Create a VisionLink account
- Purchase sampling kits from Parts.Cat.Com (PCC) or by purchasing over the counter at any of our locations across AL and NW Florida
- Collect your sample(s)
- Send your samples to Thompson Tractor using the prepaid bag included with the kits
Within 48 hours of arriving at our lab, your results will be available through VisionLink.
FAQs
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Will My S•O•S Web Data Be Transferred to VisionLink?
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Yes. Once your VisionLink account is created and your assets are properly linked, your past five years of sample history will automatically appear in VisionLink.
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What Happens If I Don’t Create a VisionLink Account Before March 2, 2026?
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To maintain your sampling history and continue accessing results, you must set up an account before the transition date. If you miss the deadline, please contact the Thompson Tractor S•O•S Lab for assistance.
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What Can I Do with Cat S•O•S Services in VisionLink?
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Once registered and logged in, you can access:
- Data analysis tools to identify trends
- Sample reports and history
- Dashboard notifications
- Printable sample labels
- Management and action reports
- Repair and action tracking
- Asset and user management
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How Quickly Are Results Available?
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You can expect full analysis results within 48 hours of your sample arriving at the lab.
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What Does a Fluid Test Detect?
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Each sample is evaluated for more than 30 characteristics, including:
Wear Analysis
Identifies wear metals and additive breakdown.
Oil Cleanliness Analysis
Particle count test for detecting metallic and nonmetallic debris.
Oil Condition Analysis
Infrared testing to measure lubricant degradation and performance.
Oil Contamination Analysis
Detects contaminants such as water, glycol, or fuel.
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How Do I Access My Test Results?
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Fluid analysis results can be viewed anytime through VisionLink.
Enable email or SMS notifications within the platform to receive updates automatically. -
Mixed Fleet? No Problem.
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Thompson Tractor provides analysis services for both Cat and non‑Cat equipment across construction, mining, agriculture, marine, and other industries.
Contact Thompson Tractor for S•O•S Fluid Analysis
Ready to optimize your equipment’s performance? Thompson Tractor provides comprehensive testing through our S•O•S Fluid Analysis services. Get the most out of your machinery with detailed insights into fluid conditions. We’re here to help you build a better heavy equipment experience. From regular specials on equipment and parts to dedicated shop service, Thompson Tractor is your expert team. Contact us with questions about our services, or find a location near you today!
Do you have additional questions? Contact:
Philip Jackson, Fluids Lab Supervisor /205-849-3624 / [email protected]