fuel system cleaners

Cindy H · 01-15-03, 01:15

I was hoping to get your advice on the different brands of fuel system cleaners out there. (I do remember various threads discussing this topic, but I had bookmarked them when the site was autopia.ws, so the links are now broken and my search results come up empty.)

I recall several recommendations for the Chevron Techron brand, but what about similar products that are made to treat the engine and transmissions? Any recommendations?

I also recall that in a previous carnation of Autopia, perhaps a year ago when it was linked with CMA, Autopia was also affiliated with a parent site that had articles on car maintenance. I remember reading an article about the myths of premium gasoline, why you should keep your gas tank at least half full, and the use of fuel system cleaners. But I just can't seem to find this site anymore. Does anyone remember this content or where it went?

Thanks

emobob · 01-15-03, 02:54

Fuel cleaners are a funny thing. I spent a lot of time about 2 months back trying to find real data on them. Came accross a few tidbits at www.bobistheoilguy.com but nothing very scientific or conclusive.

I decided to just go with techron as it seemed to be a safe bet.

If I cared enough I would probably order the schaefer's treatment off the internet...but bobistheoilguy.com seems like one big schaefer's advertisement, so I was weary of believing anything I read about that company.

atldave · 01-15-03, 04:02

Fuel additives are a scam, just like slick 50 and duralube. Well, not quite that bad, they can actually clog your oil filter and damage your engine.

Just use a good quality gas, they all have detergent in them now.

Save your money and use it to replace your fuel filter more often.

If you have clogged injectors, have them cleaned by a mechanic.

ice_nyne · 01-15-03, 05:51

Like AtlDave said, the additives you buy at your local Pep Boys and WalMarts are just snake oils. The additives in gas alone will clean your system. Anything else is due to build-up/clogs that wouldn't be eliminated with the snake oil anyway. Changing your fuel filter more often than at the recommended intervals alone will do wonders for keeping the fuel system clean. Good luck.

emobob · 01-15-03, 06:35

Sorry but I strongly disagree, not everything on shelves is 'snake oil'.

For one, all gasses on the market eventually clog your injectors, thats been proven (some a whole lot quicker than others).

There are many types of fuel additives out there, some are designed to lubricate the top of the pistons like lead used to do, some are designed to clean, some do a little bit of both. Of course there are bad products out there, some of which can destroy engine internals or tear up your carbs (who has those anymore anyways :P ) Just research them carefully, and I believe very strongly that longetivy can be added to an engine with regular use.

logic argument: they put additives in the gas you buy, in some cases its the same thing that comes in the containers on the store shelves. If its so bad then why do they put them in the gas in the first place? And in that case does that make what you buy from your local gas stations 'snake gas"?

APT · 01-16-03, 05:36

Chevron Techron is what I hear recommended a lot, but I like Redline as I've had good results in some higher mileage cars and it is cheaper.

Those that experience more clogs in their fuel injectors after use, should have changed the fuel filter first. The detergents in a concentrated cleaner end up breaking up some of what is in the fuel filter which then flow to the injectors causing problems. So, change the fuel filter every 15k miles like most manufacturer recommend, and then add your cleaner if you choose.

atldave · 01-16-03, 08:47

Quote:

Originally posted by emobob

logic argument: they put additives in the gas you buy, in some cases its the same thing that comes in the containers on the store shelves. If its so bad then why do they put them in the gas in the first place? And in that case does that make what you buy from your local gas stations 'snake gas"?

That's the point. It's already in your gas, don't waste your money. Spend your money on fuel filter changes, which most people don't do every 15k

mrdetailer · 01-16-03, 10:08

The FTC went after Slick 50, Prolong, Duralube, Maxlife, and a number of others that promised reduced engine wear for oil additives.

NOT ONE suit for gas additives. That tells me a lot. This means that they do what they say they do.

Personally I use the Vavoline Synthetic Fuel System Cleaner -- the strong one once a year as a preventative cleaner. However I don't consider it anything more than a light cleaning.

If you really want to get your fuel system clean you will need to take it into your mechanic for a detailed fuel system cleaner. They connect it to a large machine for about 45 minutes. I did it about a year ago on my 1988 Dodge which had never had it done. The increase in power was substantial. Also absolultely no difficulty passing our tough emissions tests. In fact it registered better than many new cars according to the attendant. He was surprized. Not bad for 170 Thousand Miles. I then did it to every car I owned and had the same results.

My mechanic recommends it every 45-60 thousand miles, depending on the driving style.

I heartily recommend a real fuel system cleaning occassionally.

medic · 01-16-03, 01:23

bg44k is great stuff, but pricy at about $17/bottle. it's like liquid crack though

btw, the additives exc at pep boys and the like can't be totally worthless becasue otherwise it's be fase advertising to say the clean the injectors and other fuel system elements when they really don't. I agree, some are better than others and in most cases just using quality gas will work fine, but the fuel additives have their place.

wilbanks · 01-16-03, 01:25

I ran a car for 140,000 mi without any gas cleaners. No problem.
Save your money.

bretfraz · 01-16-03, 03:13

Well, I'm not one to think that all fuel system cleaners are a scam and a waste of money. But there are many that are little more than alcohol and some other worthless ingredients.

The only retail-sold fuel system cleaner that seems to offer tangible benefits is Chevron Techron (make sure what you buy actually says "Techron" as Chevron sells cleaners without this key ingredient).

BG 44K is terrific stuff but very hard to find at retail. Many dealerships and repair shops use it and I've spoken to a number of techs who say this product is the real deal.

I've used Schaeffer's Neutra 132 and can tell you it too works as advertised. It's more than just a plain ol' injector cleaner. I disagree with the statement that Bob's website is nothing more than an ad for Schaeffer's. They have members that represent Amsoil, Exxon/Mobil, Pennzoil/Quaker State, and other competitors to Schaeffer's. Everyone seems to respect each other and values their opinions.

I am in agreement with those who suggest regular professional fuel injector cleanings. It truly does make a difference. It's a lot more involved than pouring in a bottle of cleaner and provides noticeable results. It's worth the money, especially on an older car with major miles on it that has seen little injector maintenance.

So my advice is to use a quality fuel injector cleaner on a regular basis with occassional professional cleanings.

ryeh2o · 01-16-03, 03:45

I have been told for years by dealer Mechanics that if you go to a well frequented gas station, and don't fill up when the supply truck is there, you will never need fuel injector cleaner.

In the newer honda's the additives actually foul the tips of the injectors. ( and that is the stuff Honda sells as well )

So just keep your tank half full ( so you aren't sucking all the crap off the bottom of your tank through your injectors ) and save your money!

Cheers!