B12 Chemtool

[Techniker]

I know (at least I think I know) that B12 Chemtool used to be labeled for cleaning the engine by pouring it into the crankcase as a flush. Sort of like Seafoam, but you couldn't leave it in indefinitely. It is no longer listed on the can as a use for B12. Does anyone know why?

I emailed the company but haven't yet received a response. Was it because it was too harsh on seals and gaskets? Was damage really that common?

-Techniker

 

[Y_K]

Some people reported it being a bit on aggressive side:

https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/threads/can-you-use-b12-chemtool-as-an-induction-cleaner.119910/

If you use the vac line method don't keep it there as long as you would Seafoam.

 

[sw99]

My guess is that there are too many people that didn't follow the directions and they did some damage to their engines. Personally, I dump an entire can in the crankcase and (while the engine is warm), start the vehicle and let it idle for 15 minutes. I then change the oil as normal.

 

[paulo57509]

Back in the day, I tried dumping it into the crankcase per the label instructions. IIRC, the label used to say it "vapor" cleaned the engine. I once poured it into a hot engine and I could hear it "boiling" off. I would get blue smoke on start up for a few days afterwards.

 

[Techniker]

All,

Thank you for your responses. I got an email response today from Berryman Products which I think you may be interested in:
Quote:

Hi xxxxx,

First let me thank you for being a fan of our product. Now on the use in oil and in crankcase statement that used to be on our containers, we removed the statement because of sensors that are being put in places that could be affected by using the product in these areas. We’ve noticed this on automobile manufacturing here in recent years so until we can identify what makes and models are at risk, we just removed the statement for right now. Thank you for your interest in Berryman Products and have a great day.


Assuming it isn't the seal and gasket issue, this makes sense. The B12 Chemtool is very volatile, being mostly toluene and some other aromatic hydrocarbons.

-Techniker

 

[rslifkin]

In this use, it must be done carefully. Personally, I'd only use it to clean out the pan, or as a flush in very low doses (such as about 2 ounces in the oil, drive gently until pressure returns to normal, indicating complete burnoff, then repeat, then change oil).

 

[Techniker]

Originally Posted By: rslifkin
In this use, it must be done carefully. Personally, I'd only use it to clean out the pan, or as a flush in very low doses (such as about 2 ounces in the oil, drive gently until pressure returns to normal, indicating complete burnoff, then repeat, then change oil).


Thank you for the response. I'm in the process of doing this now. I am also conducting a mini-experiment where I am placing an oil seal from Advanced Auto in a mason jar of B12. Granted it won't be hot like in an engine which would greatly increase the solvency of the B12 and increase the rate of destruction of the oil ring, but it's a starting point. I will post the results.

-Techniker

 

[daman]

In my expereance.....


B12 can be used in the crank case I've used it many times now with no ill effects.

search b12 i think i posted a wright up how i do it.....