ATF as decarbon cleaner

jokey1

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Jul 29, 2003
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23
Hey I dont know if this would work on a two cycle engine but I will try to explain.<br /><br />I used ATF on gas and diesel engines. For the gas engines I used to clean inside the engine and help stop noisy lifters. For diesel engines I used it in the fuel tank and when changing the fuel filter I would use ATF to prime the injection pump. <br /><br />It has never damaged these engines except to make some extra smoke but it has done a good job of cleaning carbon and gunk.<br /><br />I was thinking of running a 100to1 ratio on top of the 50to1 of two stoke oil. <br /><br />Does anyone have any input on this idea?
 

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
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Mar 25, 2001
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45,907
Re: ATF as decarbon cleaner

For many years, Jokey, we decarbed with water. It steam cleans the engines and does as good a job as anything you pay big bux for.
 

jokey1

Cadet
Joined
Jul 29, 2003
Messages
23
Re: ATF as decarbon cleaner

Ya Water is a good decarbon tool but would it not be bad in a 2cycle because of the bearings in the crank.
 

JB

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45,907
Re: ATF as decarbon cleaner

If you want to use water you first get the engine warmed up.<br /><br />Spray or drip SMALL amounts into the carb(s) with the engine turning about 2Krpm until exhaust smoke turns white.<br /><br />Run the engine for another 5-10 minutes to clear any residual water from the crankcase and bypass.<br /><br />Your concern about the needles makes sense, but as long as the engine is warm and it is run for a while after the treatment I think you are okay.<br /><br />Good luck. :)
 

NOSLEEP

Commander
Joined
Oct 30, 2002
Messages
2,442
Re: ATF as decarbon cleaner

Brake fluid is an excellent decarb. It is much <br />higher in detergents than auto trans fluid.
 

seldont

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Oct 4, 2003
Messages
110
Re: ATF as decarbon cleaner

I would hesitate to introduce water into the crankcase of an outboard I cared about and wanted to keep. Maybe try Seafoam?? Napa carries is for about 6 bux a can. Water in a car engine maybe. But not in an outboard where your gas carries your only source of lubrication. Just think 1 part oil to 50 parts gas is not a lot of lube. Do not add water to it as well. Running too light on oil can wreak havoc on a 2 stroke outboard. I can only imagine what water will do. My $.02
 

corky310

Recruit
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Oct 10, 2003
Messages
1
Re: ATF as decarbon cleaner

So what's the verdict? Water? Brake fluid? ATF?<br />I want to decarb my engine but now I'm just confused on what to use on my Force 120.
 

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: ATF as decarbon cleaner

The safest, most reliable thing for an inexperienced person to use is a product made for the purpose, Jokey.<br /><br />Sea Foam is one. There are others.<br /><br />Just follow the instructions on the can.<br /><br />Good luck. :)
 

seldont

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Oct 4, 2003
Messages
110
Re: ATF as decarbon cleaner

I vote the Seafoam. I am doing it to mine today. Time to go to NAPA....
 
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