"MOTOR FLUSH" with oil additive? Anybody?

[fastglass95]

Hello,

Just considering using a motor flush treatment on an older higher mileage motor that lack maintenance from previous owners and has a fair amount of sludge type build-up.
This motor burns very little, if any, oil, and runs very strong.

I've changed the oil twice in a very short period of time and both came out quite black after little running. I know oil itshelf is a pretty good detergent, but was considering using a "Brand name" product, or the old-timers remedy of 1 quart kerosine run in oil for 15 minutes, drained "HOT" to clean out motor and free sticking valves and anything else. Also opens up oil passageways (According to some Old-Timers)

Has anybody done this?

Has it worked?

Is it a BAD idea? If so, why?

It's a 454 Chevy motor in question, 1973 Vintage.

Thanks,
Tom

 

[JohnZ]

I'd continue using good brand-name oil and filters and keep changing it until it cleans up; modern detergent oils keep contaminants in suspension so the filter can trap them. "Flush" agents are solvent-based and thin the oil, which is not a great idea for bearing life. Just my two cents.

It's also interesting to note that one of the latest "miracles" in some shops are the new "engine-flushing" machines, claimed to clean out your engine "like new". GM issued a TSB several months ago advising dealers not to use this equipment, as it can lead to engiine damage which will NOT be covered by the powertrain warranty.

 

[KSGerry]

I Agree With JohnZ

If you free up any large deposits that plug an oil passage then a component failure is next. Stay with the program you have now. It took years for that sludge to build up and it will take awhile to remove it.

If in doubt of the internal integrity, do a cylinder leak down and check for obvious signs of wear that would require a rebuild or replacement. However, you did mention that the engine uses very little oil.

Regards,
Gerry Dedonis

 

[C3forME]

What about these new oils that are developed for high mileage engines, such as Valvoline Max Life? They're supposed to loosen up deposit build up and make old seals soft and pliable again. What ever happened to the good old days when you'd throw in a little Marvel Mystery Oil, drive it for a day, and then drain it out and put in a new filter and oil? You've gotta be careful with older higher mileage engines, sometimes cleaning them out too much can cause you more problems in the long run. Sometimes some of that sludge and debris is holding things together, flush it out and you could wind up with oil leaks and possible blow-by through the rings. I had a '58 chevy years ago (my first car) that was sludged up from neglect by the previous owners. I thought that I would flush it out and it would run almost like new again. Whata mistake that turned out to be. Within a weeks time I had major blow-by out the breather tube, and oil spots all over my driveway and wherever I parked.