The purpose of cleaning fuel injectors is to remove the buildup of fuel varnish deposits and contaminants that clog the injectors and affect their operation. They need periodic 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 severely 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 measures 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 plugging the fuel return line. Once this is done, disconnect the fuel pressure regulator.
Now, connect the flush 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 is drawn from the kit through the injector and removes any dirt and debris that has clogged the fuel injector. This will take a few minutes. Once this is done, shut off the engine, remove the kit, and reconnect the fuel lines, fuel pump, and fuel pressure regulator. With this, the cleaning job is done. You may notice a significant difference in your engine’s performance after cleaning.
Method #2: Add cleaner additives to the 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 fuel components. Although fuel from service stations contains certain additives, some suppliers may not add the required amount of detergents; some even use low-cost, less effective alternatives. Therefore, you have to add additional additives to the fuel.
One of the best commonly used additives is polyetheramine (PEA). Although a bit expensive compared to others, it has proven effective in keeping 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 severely clogged injector because cleaning solvent cannot pass through 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 each part of the injector. In addition, it also allows for flow tests that check the spray pattern and volume of the injectors to confirm that they are being cleaned correctly.
Precautions
• Be sure to disconnect the pressurized fuel connection
• Make sure there are no high pressure fuel or solvent leaks into the engine while it is running. These solvents are highly flammable.
• Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
• Shut off all open sources of ignition, such as spark plugs.
• Avoid contact with cleaning solvents.
• Only use specific cleaning kits for cleaning fuel injectors. Do not use other cleaners such as carburetor cleaner, brake cleaner, etc.
• Don’t overuse fuel additives, as they can eventually damage expensive catalytic converters.
These are the popular methods used for cleaning fuel injectors. If you frequently experience clogged injectors, it is best to replace them with good quality injectors that will give optimal performance for longer.
