Fuel injectors vs cleaner

[e30fr3@k]

I've replaced about all of the small things that are normally done on 30k checkups, etc. I've replaced my spark plugs, waterpump, timing belt, distributor cap, and thermostat pretty recently. From reading the posts regarding transmission fluid, I've also decided to replace that and the diff oil just for good measure. I want to address the fuel injectors, however. If I have new spark plugs I just assume put in new injectors too. However, If I can get the same results with an stp injector cleaner or redline product, that would be easier. So, the question is, "is it more efficient to put in new plugs, or to put in fuel injector cleaner?" If the cleaner is the way to go, what kind would you recommend? If replacement is the answer, how hard are they to replace (physically - I hate getting cut up on projects). Looking forward to your advice. Thanks in advance.

 

[Big Daddy]

If your not having some issues with them I would not replace the injectors. A set of injectors should last the life of the car. I just use Redline SI 1 injector cleaner with about every other fillup.

 

[jrt67ss350]

I fully agree with Bigs. You don't need to replace injectors unless you are having problems with them. Besides, they cost about $40 a piece. Just run some injector cleaner through there. I've heard good things about both the Redline cleaner that Bigs recommended as well as Techron. I use Techron once in a while simply because it is readily available in stores around here, unlike Redline products.

Man, Big Daddy, every other fillup? You own stock in Redline oils?

 

[e30fr3@k]

alright, thanks guys. I'll try the techron unless redline is available at schucks.

 

[Big Daddy]

Man, Big Daddy, every other fillup? You own stock in Redline oils?

I wish I did. I get it from Eurasian Auto by the case lot. Techron is just as good and I may switch to it simply because I can get it at Costco. ....Hey I bet my injectors are clean enough to eat off of.....that would be hard!

 

[xLibelle]

every other fillup? is that safe?

...errr, i guess so since chevron has the stuff in the fuel already

 

[ldzpstnr]

I have used the redline injection cleaner every tank before, did that for about 5 or so fill ups. The car ran great, had no problems whatsoever. Recently I decided to start using it every over tank just like Big Daddy. You do not use the entire bottle, only a little bit of it. There is marks on the redline bottle that show how much will treat 10 gallons. I use probably about 25% percent of a bottle every other filll up. The redline bottle says its safe for continual use. I am sold on the redline cleaner and will always use it. I have not tried the Techron product but have heard its good also.

I figure the redline is cheaper since I pay $5.50 a bottle and get 4 uses out of it. Thats using a little less then $1.40 of the redline cleaner per fill up.

I bet my injectors are clean enough to eat off of just the B-Daddy. Later guys.

Aaron

 

[jrt67ss350]

Yeah, if used in that manner, the Redline cleaner is substantially cheaper than the Techron, which is something close to $5 a bottle (only treats one tank) around here.

 

[switch]

Injector cleaners are like most everything esle in life... it's OK in moderation. Too much of anything that can really clean deposits off of the injectors and intake valves, can and will cause issues with some of the fuel system components in the long term.
Probably using a good cleaner a few times a year, keeping the tank full, and replacing the fuel filter on schedule will do fine.

When it's time for a major modification and your injectors are being removed anyway, send them out to a shop for a real cleaning and testing. That way you will know their condition.

Gordon
WitchHunter Performance
Fuel injector cleaning & flow testing service