c4c5: BG 44K, MI3000, or GM #12345515?

[fhturner]

Hi c4c5--

In past threads, you have recommended the use of these three decarbonizing additives. It seems that 44K is the "heavy duty" stuff for really bad carbon buildup, and MI3000 is the "twice-a-year" cleaner. The GM decarbonizing additive #12345515, I'm not sure, but seems to be a twice-a-year cleaner as well. Could you please tell us what your preference is these days and why? I haven't experienced any bad buildup problems (that I can tell), so I'd like to figure out what I should use periodically.

Thanks!
Fred

 

[c4c5specialist]

Hi there,
First, the reason to use the decarbonizing treatment on a regular basis, is that the fuel formulations today are very bad.
More and more additives in the fuels create carbon deposits, that rob power, and create engine noise.
Next, for those that do NOT have a carbon buildup or detonation issue, 12345515 is readily available at any GM dealership, and can be used 1 every six months or 6000miles.
Some people cannot find this, like in Europe, Alaska or Hawaii.
This is where I recommend the MI3000 from BG Products. This does essentially the same thing as the GM additive.
44K is strictly for carbon deposits that are so bad that carbon buildup is creating spark knock. Once the 44K is used, and spark knock is no longer evident, then you can use the other 2 on a regular basis.
There are some cases when no fuel systems additive will work, and then a manual decarbonization over 24 hours will need to be done. This may be needed for the most extreme cases.
Allthebest, c4c5

 

[JBsC5]

Sounds as if this is a smart preventative maintaince program.

Thanks

JB

 

[fhturner]

Thanks for the clarification, c4c5! I think I'll order a case of 12345515 from gmpartsdirect.com and start using that on a regular basis...

Thanks,
Fred

 

[Gizmoz]

I went to the dealer to get 12345515 and they told me that wasn't valid, that 12345104 was correct. When I go to GM parts there are both listed albeit 104 is higher priced. Which one should I order? BTW, I bought the 12345104 at $24.95, will I ever learn? Is it going to do the same thing?

 

[Gorgon]

Once again some good info. I have a question as to whether these additives are OK to be used in the LT1 engine as well. I would think this would be some good preventative to be done on that car as well.

Leon

 

[c4c5specialist]

Hi there,
12345515 is still valid, they probably do NOT have any in stock.
So, they suggest you purchase this one.
Its more expensive for other reasons, than just size.
It is a different substance.
Allthebest, c4c5"hb