quote:
Originally posted by Boris740:
I find it interesting the Techron is near the bottom of the list. I cannot make any claims for Techron but when it is mentioned others it is always in positive light. If you ever feel inclined to retest it I would be interested in results.
Yes, this did not escape my attention. I, too, have heard some fairly remarkable anecdotal claims for its cleaning ability. A possible reason for this is that it works differently at engine temps than it does at room temp, specifically my kitchen temp. This can be said for all the cleaners tested. After all, I did not dismantle dozens of engines to compare results, I had to simplify the procedures significantly. The highest temps used during some tests was maybe 130°F to maybe 180°F. I was limited by the melting point of the plastic caps on the vials I used.
I also wondered why butyl cellosolve rated poorest of all when it is so commonly used as a cleaner throughout the auto industry. I've seen it on engine flushes and I assumed it helped remove water from the oil. It is one of the few solvents used which can mix with water to some extent.
A number of people have asked me to test specific products, but my kitchen is no longer set up as my lab so I am unable to continue these tests. I have saved some materials, and my notebooks, for future examination, but the tests were actually done a few years ago and most of the materials are long gone.
Remember, please do not make the mistake I made before I knew the strength of some of the products, that being, "if a little is good, a lot must be better". Use them as directed. The manufacturers did a lot more research than I did. I reported which solvents I've been able to use safely in large quantities. Don't expect to be able to use other OTC products in those same quantities. If something seems to work well for you, great, keep using it, otherwise, use my data to point you in another direction.