How To Clean Pistons Without Removing Them [CHEAP]

Carbon buildup on the pistons is actually very common, especially on older engines. It doesn’t matter how you maintain it, carbon buildup is a product of the combustion of gasoline. Is carbon buildup on pistons something that you should take care of?

Carbon buildup on pistons can lead to abnormal combustion because the carbon has a tendency to absorb both oxygen and fuel, therefore, extinguishing the flame in the combustion chamber.

The carbon buildup on the pistons will disrupt the normal combustion process and can lead to poor fuel economy, failing the pollution test, uneven power stroke thus causing engine knock, and more.

Now that you have been informed about how carbon buildup on pistons affects engine performance, it’s time to take action.

Key Takeaway

• The function of pistons in cars is to transfer the force from the expanding gas in the cylinder to the crankshaft to produce motion that powers the vehicle.
• Cleaning pistons without removing them can be done by locating the PCV vacuum hose, inserting a carb cleaner straw into the hose, and starting the engine, thereby allowing the cleaner to circulate and clean the pistons.

What Is The Function of Pistons In Cars?

The function of pistons in cars is integral to the operation of the internal combustion engine.

Pistons are cylindrical components that move up and down within the engine’s cylinders as fuel is ignited.

This movement is a result of the explosion of the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber above the piston.

As the piston moves down, it creates a vacuum that draws in air and fuel into the cylinder.

When it moves up, it compresses this mixture, which is then ignited by the spark plug, causing an explosion that pushes the piston back down.

This downward motion turns the crankshaft, which ultimately drives the wheels of the vehicle.

In essence, pistons convert the energy from the engine’s combustion process into mechanical energy that propels the car.

How To Clean Pistons Without Removing Them [CHEAP]

• Open the hood and remove any plastic covers to expose the engine.
• Locate the PCV vacuum hose. It is usually next to the intake manifold.
• Insert a carb cleaner straw into the PCV hose.
• Start the vehicle and rev it to 2000 RPMs.
• Spray the whole cleaner bottle in short sprays.
• Take the vehicle for a test drive.

1. Gather the required cleaning and safety materials

Before you start cleaning your pistons without removing them, you will need some cleaning and safety materials. I usually use the Gumout carbon cleaner that I order from amazon.com. I have used it 4 times so far and I am very satisfied with both the price and the results.

Not sure about you, but I always use gloves when working on my car. I usually get these vinyl gloves from amazon.com. The carbon cleaner can cause damage to the skin, so please make sure to wear gloves.

2. Remove the plastic cover

In order to gain access to the PCV vacuum hose, you will need to remove the plastic cover. The plastic cover can be either secured with clamps or screws. Remove the plastic cover and safely store it. Be careful not to lose any bolts that might fall inside the engine bay.

3. Locate the PCV vacuum hose

There are usually two PCV vacuum hoses located in the engine bay. One of those PCV vacuum hoses goes to the mass airflow sensor and the throttle body. The carbon cleaner can damage those components and we need to be careful not to flush any carbon cleaner into that hose.

You need to locate the one that goes directly to the intake manifold and then the combustion chamber as shown in the picture above.

4. Insert the carb cleaner straw into the vacuum hose

The PCV vacuum hose might be secured with a clamp. Remove the clamp and insert the carb cleaner straw and reinstall the PCV vacuum hose as shown in the photo above. If the vacuum hose is loose on its own, you can secure it with a clamp.

The idea behind this is to spray the carb cleaner into the PCV vacuum hose that leads directly to the combustion chamber where the pistons are located and remove any carbon buildup.

5. Start the engine

Start the engine and keep the revs at 2000 RPMs. At this point, you should be careful when working because the engine will get how. Also, make sure that you are performing this task in a well-ventilated garage, or outdoors.

The engine has to be running because we need the carb cleaner to travel from the PCV vacuum hose into the intake manifold and from there into the combustion chamber. Once the carbon cleaner reached the combustion chamber, it will come into contact with the pistons and will clean them without the need of removing them.

6. Spray the carbon cleaner

With the engine running at 2000 RPMs, spray the carbon cleaner into the PCV vacuum hose that leads to the combustion chamber. With short sprays, make sure to use at least half the can for good results.

Personally, I always use the full can. This is because I really have no idea how much carbon buildup I have on my pistons. Also, the carbon cleaner is cheap, and using the full can will save you a lot of money on repairs.

7. Reattach the PCV vacuum hose and go for a test drive

After you finish spraying the carbon cleaner, remove the cleaner straw from the vacuum hose and reinstall it. Then, reinstall any covers that you might have removed in the process.

Take your car for a test run to make sure that no carbon cleaner is left in the engine. If you have followed all of the steps, at this point, you should have cleaned your pistons without removing them.

Signs That The Pistons Are Dirty

• Noticeable decrease in engine performance
• Increased oil consumption
• Excessive smoke from the exhaust
• Loss of acceleration power
• Engine knocking or pinging sounds
• Check engine light comes on
• Poor fuel economy
• Difficulty starting the engine
• Rough idling or stalling
• Compression loss in the engine cylinders

What Causes a Piston To Become Dirty

• Poor quality or incorrect type of engine oil
• Infrequent oil changes or poor maintenance
• Contaminants in the fuel
• Engine overheating
• Poor air filtration allowing dirt and dust into the engine
• Excessive engine wear and tear
• Prolonged driving under severe conditions
• Using low-quality or incorrect type of fuel
• Carbon build-up from incomplete combustion
• Oil leakage into the combustion chamber

How Often Should You Clean The Pistons?

Cleaning the pistons without removing them should be done every 3,000 to 5,000 miles by using fuel additives.

However, it’s important to note that these products are preventative measures rather than a solution for heavily soiled pistons.

If you suspect your pistons are excessively dirty, it’s best to consult with a professional mechanic.

FAQs

Q: Why would I need to clean pistons without removing them?

A: Cleaning pistons without removing them is necessary when you want to remove carbon buildup or deposits that can affect engine performance. Carbon deposits can cause piston rings to stick, reduce combustion efficiency, and lead to poor fuel economy. Cleaning the pistons can help restore engine power and efficiency.

Q: What is piston carbon buildup?

A: Piston carbon buildup refers to the accumulation of carbon deposits on the surface of the piston. These deposits are formed due to incomplete combustion of fuel or oil, and can build up over time. Carbon buildup can affect engine performance and cause various issues if not addressed.

Q: Can I remove carbon buildup on piston rings without removing them?

A: Yes, it is possible to clean carbon buildup on piston rings without removing them. Using a piston cleaner or carbon removal spray, you can target the area around the piston rings to dissolve and remove the carbon deposits. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the cleaner and exercise caution while cleaning.

Q: What is the best way to clean carbon off pistons?

A: The best way to clean carbon off pistons is to use a specialized piston cleaner or carbon buildup remover. These products are designed to dissolve and remove carbon deposits without causing any damage to the piston. Follow the instructions on the cleaner and ensure proper ventilation when using these products.

Q: Can I clean the piston head without removing the cylinder head?

A: Yes, you can clean the piston head without removing the cylinder head. Using a piston cleaner or carbon buildup remover, you can target the piston head and surrounding areas to remove carbon deposits. However, it is important to exercise caution and follow the instructions provided by the cleaner.

Q: Can I use carb cleaner to clean pistons without removing them?

A: Yes, carb cleaner can be used to clean pistons without removing them. Carb cleaners are designed to dissolve and remove carbon deposits and can be effective in cleaning pistons. However, it is important to choose a carb cleaner that is suitable for the specific type of engine and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Q: How does carbon buildup affect engine performance?

A: Carbon buildup can have a negative impact on engine performance. It can cause the piston rings to stick, leading to decreased compression and power output. Carbon deposits can also affect the combustion process, resulting in reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Cleaning the pistons can help restore proper engine performance.

Q: What precautions should I take when cleaning pistons without removing them?

A: When cleaning pistons without removing them, it is important to take certain precautions. Make sure the engine is cool before starting the cleaning process. Follow the instructions provided by the cleaner and wear protective gloves and eyewear to avoid direct contact with the cleaning solution. Ensure proper ventilation in the area where you are performing the cleaning.

In Conclusion

The process of cleaning pistons without removing them is not an easy task, but it can be done with the right tools and knowledge.

With careful preparation, cleaning your pistons without removal can help save time and money while providing a higher-quality end result.