Varnish/ Carbon Build up

RBapt · Dec 11th, 2007, 09:05 PM

I pulled the valve cover off of my engine and changed the upper timing tensioner recently on my car and noticed that there was a TON of varnish and carbon in the engine (actual globs of goo under the cams). I have read about people using Seafoam........any advise on whether this is a good (or best) application?

Do I need to pull the oil pan after use and is there any danger of messing up my car? The engine has 233K on it and seems to be running pretty well.

Thank you!
Robert

SE-R Redline · Dec 11th, 2007, 09:13 PM

when you gonna swap that thing lol

RBapt · Dec 12th, 2007, 09:17 PM

Would LOVE to.....if someone is willing to give me a good 2.0 and teach me how to install it. : )

Seriously though, it's just my commuter bucket......I'm just having fun keeping it going. I may try to keep this thing to the million mark.....

Any advice on the SEAFOAM?

Xourque · Dec 26th, 2007, 01:06 PM

Seafoam is fun! This is what i've done:

1) Pour about half the can into a shallow bowl
2) Unplug the vaccuum line going to the brake booster
3) Start the engine (it's going to be VERY rough, might need someone sitting in the drivers seat to give it some gas to keep it going)
4) Hold the vaccuum line into the bowl and let it suck up ALL of the fluid. Once it is all gone, TURN THE ENGINE OFF IMEDIATELY. Reconnect the vaccuum line.
5) Wait for 10 minutes.
6) Start up the engine and get ready for some smoke!!

I'd repeat this same process about 3 times in order to get all the crap out of your valves.

Take pictures of the smoke and post them here!!!!

Xourque · Dec 26th, 2007, 01:09 PM

That's the BEST way of doing it.

You can also pour a portion of the can directly into your crank case (with your oil). I'd drive it with the seafoam in it for about 500 miles and then change your oil. It should not require ANYTHING except for an oil change. All that adding the seafoam to your crankcase will do is remove any oil sludge. Otherwise, the process of sucking it into your vaccuum system is the best bet for cleaning out the gum in your valves.

I wouldn't worry about it messing anything up unless you have some SERIOUSLY crappy and old rubber around your engine, which is doubtful.