ATF as a Cleaner, Throttle Body Cleaner & Oil Additives

trap6435 · Post by **trap6435** » 13 Jul 2004, 19:45

New owner of 1999 V70 AWD R, gonna have questions............

Has anyone heard of using ATF, 1/2 or so of a quart, just before an oil change to clean out the crankcase, etc? Three mechanics recommended running this for a couple of weeks before the oil change and one went so far as to recommend 1 to 2 quarts running briefly but not hard just before the change. Any comments?

Also, are any oil additives recommended? For example, B&G or any of the new ceramic additives?

What about throttlebody cleaners? Is there a particularly good one while its mounted in the car?

trapper

potroast · Post by **potroast** » 13 Jul 2004, 20:19

I use simple green for cleaning my throttle body. Works great.

As for ATF, I wouldn't. Get some Sea Foam, instead. 2/3 of a pint will be perfect.

Tsquared · Post by **Tsquared** » 13 Jul 2004, 21:09

ATF fluid is another old mechanics tales that is a bunch of hogwash. There are no detergents in ATF to clean the inside of an engine. The shear factor of ATF may have enough viscosity to keep from ruining you engine for a short time but it will start wearing quickly when the ATF starts breaking down in the much harsher environment of the engine. ATF varies depending on type from 5w to 40w.

Other old mechanics tales:
Synthetic oil causes oil leaks
Synthetic oil causing "bearing skate" because it is too slippery

ATF is for the transmission. Engine flush or switching to a different oil that has a higher/different detergent package is a better way to go. If a mechanic recomeds ATF as engine flush, nod your head and say "sure", walk out the door, and never let that 'mechanic' touch any of your vehicles. B&G makes some very good products - I have used them and I can recomend them - they are just a little pricy. A good full synthetic motor oil will also "clean" the internals of your engine. They are rich in additives - Amsoil, Red-line, Royal-Purple, and Mobile1 are all very good products.

Disclaimer: I am not a "factory" trained mechanic. I am an enthusiast who has rebuilt many gas and diesel engines that were regularly serviced with one particular oil or the other. I try to stay informed on performance issues or a better way of getting more out of my equipment.