Oil sludge

thanks.

I'll have to remember this topic for the next family reunion. I'll bet this topic will start an arguement that will last for hours.

Aw heck, nothin' to argue about; if a feller isn't comfortable with it, he shouldn't do it.

But on the other hand, farmers & mechanics have been using kerosene and diesel to flush engines/rear ends for 50 or 60 years. No ill effects that I've ever heard of. :>)

Allan

It's not that I'm opinionated. It's just that I don't understand why everyone else doesn't see things my way. Smile.

Gene

I would not run kerosene, diesel, or an engine flush.

I agree with your dad.

Kerosene or diesel fuel in the crankcase instead of engine oil and let 'er run at a "just-off idle" speed for about 3 or 4 minutes with no load.

Cleans 'em right out; same thing for a tranny/rear end.

Allan

I would go for the Gum Out or a couple of fast oil changes using a high detergent oil.

Yes, I know this will cause some discussion.

Do check the sludge for metal particles indicating excessive engine wear.

Kerosene will clean it right up, but you may find you have a little less oil pressure afterward due to accelerated bearing wear. The problem is in starting the engine after you have drained the kerosene. You have kerosene in the bearings with very little film pressure, so every revolution before pressure gets to the bearings can damage the bearing surfaces. Once you get pressure, oil, kerosene, water, etc. will float the bearing and provide protection under low-stress conditions.

As long as this glorified water-based carb cleaner comes from NAPA with a label on it deeming it as safe to use in engine crankcases, that it is okay to use as a flushing agent?

Is this pretty much how it works? :>)

Allan