Low quality gas, moisture and external impurities are just a few factors that contribute to the accumulating grime within the fuel injection system of your vehicle. And while a few spots may not seem so intimidating at first, the build-up of dirt can start to clog the nozzles of your injectors which compromises both spray width and volume.
The once fine mist that used to be directly injected into the combustion chamber comes out as solid droplets which are more difficult and take longer to burn; thus, this leads lower gas mileage, loss of power, engine hesitation and dangerous emissions. You will need to learn how to clean fuel injectors to keep your vehicle in top shape.
It is vital then that the entire system be cleaned once in a while for maintenance, and for this there are solvents and additives that you can pour directly into the benzine tank. However, for a deeper, more specific clean of the actual benzine injectors, cleaning kits are usually employed and can be managed by your local mechanic or even by yourself.
How to Clean Fuel Injectors Yourself
Here’s a run-through on how to clean petrol injectors with a kit.
- Turn off your engine and determine the location of your injectors. Have your car manual handy to help guide you through the parts of the engine.
- Have the injector cleaning kit with its instructions (if any) ready by your side.
- Next, disable the petrol pump and connect the petrol return line. If not, you can use a U-tube. The point is that the gas must return to the tank.
- Disconnect the pressure regulator, and then attach the injector cleaning kit on the petrol port which can be found on the benzine rail.
- Be sure to remove the petrol cap. The cleaning must be done with the petrol tank open to avoid pressure increase within the engine.
- Be sure that the ignition is turned.
- Be absolutely sure that the pump is disabled.
- Check the petrol pressure of your vehicle and then open the valve of the cleaning kit. Keep adjusting the valve until the reading on the gauge matches the benzine pressure of your vehicle.
- For the solvent to enter the injection system, you’ll need to turn on the engine and let it run for five minutes or when it shuts down by itself. By then, all the solvent in the kit’s canister would have been used up.
- Reset the benzine pump switch and return the cap on the gas tank.
- And once more, connect the pressure regulator and turn the engine on. Listen closely for rapid clicking or ticking noises to verify that your injectors are back in working shape.
- Other car owners prefer to use a long screwdriver as a DIY stethoscope.
Conclusion
Now, if there are any complications, you may need to rerun the process again. First timers and novices may fare better with the help of a local mechanic or a seasoned expert in the process. The steps on how to clean fuel injectors can be demanding especially with the exposure to heat and toxic substances, so it is best to first have a thorough knowledge and experience of what you are doing.
