The purpose of fuel injector cleaning is to remove the buildup of fuel varnish deposits and contaminants that clog the injectors and affect their operation. They need regular cleaning for optimal performance. Experts recommend cleaning fuel injectors every 25,000 to 30,000 miles or once a year.
Cleaning fuel injectors not only improves functionality, but also helps restore and improve engine performance, reduce emissions and improve fuel economy.
One good thing about fuel injector cleaning is that you can do it all yourself, without the help of an auto mechanic. However, if the injector is badly clogged, you may need your help. Let’s take a look at the different methods used in cleaning.
Method #1: Using Fuel Injector Cleaning Kits
Fuel injector cleaning kits are available at any auto supply store. Before connecting the kit, locate the fuel injector and take steps to prevent fuel from entering the injectors. You can do this by using tubing to bypass the fuel injector so fuel returns to the tank or by removing the fuel pump and blocking the fuel return line. Once this is done, disconnect the fuel pressure regulator.
Now connect the cleaning kit to the fuel inlet port and remove the fuel cap from the tank to release any pressure in the tank that the kit may build up. Open the valve of the cleaning kit until its pressure value matches the injection pressure value (you can find the injection pressure value of your car engine in the manual).
Once the cleaning kit reaches the required pressure value, start the engine so that the cleaning solvent passes from the kit through the injector and removes the dirt and debris that has clogged the fuel injector. This will take a few minutes. Once this is done, turn off the engine, remove the kit and reconnect the fuel lines, fuel pump and fuel pressure regulator. With this, the cleanup job is done. You may notice a significant difference in your engine’s performance after cleaning.
Method #2: Add Cleaner Additives to Fuel
Adding cleaner additives, also called detergents or deposit control additives, to the fuel helps control the buildup of dirt and debris in the fuel tank. These additives help reduce the volatility of the lighter components of the fuel. Although gas station fuel contains certain additives, some suppliers may not add the required amount of detergents; some even use low-cost and less effective alternatives. Therefore, you must add additional additives to the fuel.
One of the best commonly used additives is polyetheramine (PEA). Although it is a bit expensive compared to others, it has proven to be effective in keeping the injectors, valves and combustion chamber clean and does not require additional fluidizers.
Method #3: manual cleaning
In-car cleaning may not be as effective for a badly clogged injector because it cannot get through the cleaning solvent during the cleaning cycle. So when in-car cleaning doesn’t work, you can do off-car cleaning, which involves removing the injector from the vehicle and cleaning it. However, this
it has to be done at the service center.
Cleaning outside the car requires special equipment and takes more time compared to cleaning inside the car. However, this is more effective as it thoroughly cleans every part of the injector. In addition, it also allows flow tests that check the spray pattern and volume of the nozzles to confirm that they are cleaning properly.
precautions
• Be sure to disconnect the pressurized fuel connection
• Make sure there are no high-pressure fuel or solvent leaks from the engine while it is running. These solvents are highly flammable.
• Wear safety glasses to protect eyes
• Shut off all open sources of ignition, such as spark plugs.
• Avoid contact with cleaning solvents
• Use only the specific cleaning kits for cleaning fuel injectors. Do not use other cleaners such as carburetor cleaner, brake cleaner, etc.
• Don’t abuse fuel additives as they can eventually damage expensive catalytic converters.
These are the popular methods used for cleaning fuel injectors. If you experience clogged injectors on a regular basis, it is best to replace them with good quality injectors that will give optimum performance for longer.
