Running tranny fluid in engine (cleaning)

[Glen]

Has anyone heard of this and does it work? I have read that running 1 litre of tranny fluid in your engine for a bit and then changing will help with stuck or blocked lifters etc. Just wondering if it works.

[Dr.Dan]

Think of it as using a can of 'Engine Flush' engine cleaner... it cleans up allot of the sludge in the engine.
Doing this can sometimes free up sticky lifters, but at the same time it's also possible block them from the dirt that it's cleaning from the rest if the engine.

So the bottom line is it could make it better, or it could make it worse. It's the chance you take.

[Glen]

Ok, thanks Dan. BTW, how far would you drive before changing the oil to flush it out.

[Dr.Dan]

Well that depends on just how much you add to the oil.
If you're down about 1/2 L and you top it up with 1/2 L of ATF, then you probably could drive on that for day or two... just don't drive it hard as it thins the oil allot.

Now if you add a full L to the oil I wouldn't drive it more than around the corner to get it changed, or as I prefer, don't drive it at all and change the oil and filter right where you are.

The way I usually would do this is to drain out some oil and add 1 L of ATF. Run the engine at 1500 to 2000 rpm for 15 to 30 minutes then let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then change the oil and filter.

You'll probably need to change it again within another 1000Km if there's allot of dirt and sludge in the engine as the ATF will have softened it and the oil will continue to clean it out.

If it's not that dirty and it's just varnish that needs removing, then you should be able to go longer... just keep an eye on the oil colour. If it turns dark quick, change it.

[Glen]

Thanks Dan. I think I will do it the last way you mentioned.

[Just Doug1]

We used to do this using 1/2 quart of varsol.

[Dr.Dan]

We used to do this using 1/2 quart of varsol.
:eek: That'll take allot of life off of the bearings :eek:

You want to use something that's a good cleaner, yet still a good lubricant.

I've known some that used diesel fuel... but I'd rather use something that isn't quite so flamable ;)