Cleaning fuel rails and injectors

[Devin]

I don't have any specialized equipment, but I have access to compressed air, pressure washers, vacuum systems and other assorted goodies. My question is, what is the most thorough way to clean fuel injectors that the home mechanic can do? Also, what chemicals are the best for the situation?

 

[sdpatt]

Use a good, high strength fuel system cleaner. Removing the intake manifold, fuel rails and injectors just to clean those components can create more problems that it may solve. Why do you think your injectors need a Roto-Rooter?

 

[rangerj]

As stated by SDPatt you can run a high quality fuel injector cleaner additive through the fuel system, or you can buy an injector cleaner kit that pushes the cleaner through the fuel rail and the injectors with the engine running.

These kits are available at most auto parts stores. It involves connecting the kit tank to the fuel rail (or fuel log)and disconnecting the fuel pump (usually remove the fuse). 3M makes a very highly rated cleaning kit.

Lastly, you can remove the intake and the fuel rail with the injectors, and send the injectors to someone who has the equipment and the training to clean and service the injectors.

The last item is not a "do-it-yourself" project. The equipment is highly specialized and expensive. You can remove the injectors, but do not try to service them yourself. rangerj

 

[gosho89]

Devin,

Join the NWSHOC club, we offer injector cleaning at our bi-monthly meetings. All it cost is a can of cleaner usually less then $15 bucks.

One of our club members has the required hose and adapter to connect the potent 3M or NAPA professional strength cleaner to the fuel rail shrader valve.

After my first cleaning my mileage increased 2mpg.

 

[Devin]

Cool, thank you for all of the helpful replies.

I would join NWSHOC, but my SHO doesn't really move right now. Too much engine work currently on my plate

I didn't think that I could clean the injectors myself, but I wanted to be sure. Thanks!