Boosting Fuel Pressure: Cleaning Injectors And Improving Performance

Fuel injectors are a crucial component of a car's engine, delivering fuel to the engine by spraying a fine mist of gasoline into the cylinders. Over time, carbon buildup and other residues can clog the injectors, reducing their ability to adequately provide fuel to the engine. This affects the car's fuel efficiency and power output. While there are several methods to clean fuel injectors, such as using chemical cleaners or mechanical cleaners, one popular method is boosting the fuel pressure by attaching a pressurized fuel cleaner to the engine's fuel rail and running it at the recommended psi until the injectors are clean. This method requires the use of a fuel injector cleaning kit, fuel injector cleaner, wrench/socket set, and an air compressor. It is important to wear gloves and safety glasses during this process due to the use of chemicals under pressure.

Using a fuel injector cleaning kit

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

You will need a fuel injector cleaning kit, fuel injector cleaner, a wrench/socket set, an air compressor, gloves, and safety glasses.

Step 2: Prepare the Canister

Fill up the canister that comes with the fuel injection kit with the recommended cleaner. Screw the lid back on securely.

Step 3: Hang the Canister

Hang the canister from the underside of the hood, using a hook or chain that usually comes with the cleaning kit.

Step 4: Disconnect the Fuel Pump

Find the fuel pump relay and pull it to prevent the fuel pump from running during the cleaning process.

Step 5: Attach the Canister to the Fuel Rail Test Port

Locate the fuel rail test port, which can be found near the engine intake manifold. Refer to your vehicle's owner manual if needed. Connect the hose from the fuel injector kit to the fuel rail test port.

Step 6: Attach the Air Compressor

Connect an air compressor hose to the air port on the canister.

Step 7: Adjust the Pressure

Adjust the pressure on the canister's gauge as instructed by the manufacturer. Typically, you want the pressure to be a few pounds lower than the car's normal fuel rail pressure.

Step 8: Start the Car and Wait

Start the car and let it run until all the cleaning solution in the canister has flown through the fuel rail. This can take up to 10 minutes.

Step 9: Stop the Car and Disconnect

Once the canister is empty, turn off the car. Disconnect the air hose from the canister and the canister hose from the fuel rail.

Step 10: Reconnect the Fuel Pump

Reconnect the fuel pump relay in the fuse box to start the car again.

Step 11: Start the Car Again

With the fuel pump relay reconnected, start the car. Your fuel injectors should now be clean, and you can enjoy improved engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Additional Tips:

Before attempting to clean your fuel injectors, it is recommended to check your air and fuel filters, as they might be the cause of any issues. Additionally, always refer to your vehicle's owner manual for exact locations and detailed instructions.

DIY fuel injector cleaning

Dirty fuel injectors can affect a car's performance and efficiency. Fuel injectors are key components linked to a car's performance and, over time, they can get clogged with debris and residues. This affects the car's fuel efficiency and power output.

There are two methods for cleaning your fuel injectors. The first is just using an over-the-counter fuel injector cleaner to try and flush your injectors out. The second method is more invasive and requires some actual wrenching.

Using a Fuel Injector Cleaner

Start off with a nearly empty fuel tank, or as directed by the manufacturer of the fuel cleaner. Then pour the specified amount of cleaner into the fuel tank. Once the injector cleaner is in the fuel tank, go ahead and fill it back up with fuel. Run a Top Tier gasoline brand when you can—it’s held to a detergent standard. Start the engine up and let the cleaner work. Repeat this process every oil change to ensure your injectors don’t get gunky again.

Using a Fuel Injector Cleaning Kit

The fuel injection kit will come with a canister. Unscrew the top of the canister and fill it with the recommended cleaner. Screw the lid back on. Most cleaning kits come with some sort of hook or chain, so you can hang it from the underside of the hood. Open the hood and hang the canister somewhere above the engine that’s convenient for you.

You don’t want the fuel pump running during this procedure, so find the fuel pump relay and pull it. Find the fuel rail test port (your owner’s manual should tell you where it is) and connect the hose from the fuel injector kit to it. Attach an air compressor hose to the canister’s air port. Adjust the pressure on the canister’s gauge as directed by its instructions. Typically, you want just a few pounds lower than the car’s normal fuel rail pressure.

Start the car and let it run until all of the solution in the canister has flown through the fuel rail. This process can take up to 10 minutes. Once the canister is empty, turn the car off and disconnect the air hose from the canister. Then disconnect the canister hose from the fuel rail. Now that the canister is empty, you’ll need the fuel pump to start the car once again, so reconnect its relay in the fuse box. Once the fuel pump relay is back in, start the car and you’re done.

DIY Injector Cleaning

One DIY injector cleaning method involves rigging up a 12-volt auto battery with a push-type on/off switch, a syringe with carburetor cleaner, and following the procedure as described in some of the YouTube videos. However, it is believed that this method may only remove some loose debris but will not dissolve or loosen the baked-on hydrocarbons or hardened shellac.

When to Clean Your Fuel Injectors

Common symptoms of clogged injectors (running rough, down on power) can also be caused by a dirty air and/or fuel filter. Before you start disconnecting things and pulling your injectors, it’d be worth looking at both those filters because they’re typically much easier to service and do indeed get gummed up in the course of a car’s normal life.

Ultrasonic fuel injector cleaning

Fuel injectors are key components linked to a car's performance. They deliver gasoline or diesel into the combustion chamber in a fine, precise mist, allowing the fuel to mix more effectively with the air and enhancing the engine's performance. However, over time, fuel injectors can get clogged with debris and residues, reducing their ability to adequately provide fuel to the engine. This affects the car's fuel efficiency and power output.

The benefits of ultrasonic fuel injector cleaning include:

• It is the most effective method for restoring injectors, removing deposits and restoring their proper function.
• It is a cheaper alternative to buying new injectors, as only one in about ten thousand fuel injectors needs to be replaced.
• It is safe and will not damage other injector components.
• It gets into tiny nooks and crannies where dirt and grime hide, providing a thorough clean.

The process of ultrasonic fuel injector cleaning typically takes 45-60 minutes to thoroughly clean the injectors. GDI or Direct Injection fuel injectors may take longer. It is important to note that this method requires the use of specialised equipment and solutions, and may not be suitable for at-home DIY projects.

• Fill the tank halfway with water and add the correct amount of cleaning solution concentrate. For example, for a 3/4 gallon tank, add approximately 2/3 cup; for a 1.6-gallon tank, add 1-1/4 cups. Continue adding water to the tank's fill line.
• Degas the solution by operating the injector cleaning system for 15-20 minutes to drive off cavitation-inhibiting entrained air and mix the solution. This step must be performed each time a fresh cleaning solution is prepared.
• Carefully position the fuel injectors in the basket with the nozzle holes facing up to ensure the solution accesses the interior of the injectors.
• Activate the ultrasound, lower the basket into the solution, and place the lid on the tank to reduce evaporation and noise.
• Set the timer for 15 minutes. Cleaning time can be adjusted depending on the condition of the injectors. It may be beneficial to remove the basket and reposition the injectors during the process.
• When satisfied, rinse the injectors in fresh water and blow them dry with an air hose.
• For maintenance, remove and set aside floating contaminants, and replace the cleaning solution when it loses its effectiveness. Drain the tank and dispose of the solution and collected skimmings according to local regulations.

It is important to note that ultrasonic fuel injector cleaning is just one method of cleaning fuel injectors. Other methods include:

• Using a fuel injector cleaner kit: This involves attaching a hose from the kit to the fuel port on the fuel rail and running a cleaning solution through the injectors for about 15-30 minutes.
• Pouring a can of injector cleaner into the gas tank: This helps flush out the injectors and can be done before a fill-up.
• Using a pressurized fuel cleaner: This method involves hooking up a pressurized fuel cleaner to the engine's fuel rail and running it at the recommended psi until the injectors are clean.

Chemical cleaners

There are a variety of chemical cleaning products available on the market, and some of the most popular ones are:

• Lucas Fuel Treatment: This product is both a fuel injector cleaner and conditioner. It cleans and lubricates the entire fuel injection system, resulting in improved power, fuel mileage, and emission test results. One gallon of this treatment can treat up to 400 gallons of fuel, making it a great value option.
• Sea Foam SF-16 Motor Treatment: Sea Foam is a well-known and highly regarded fuel injector cleaner among auto enthusiasts. It not only cleans injectors but also lubricates the entire fuel system. Additionally, it can be used as a fuel stabilizer or added to crankcase oil for better oil flow.
• BG 44K Fuel System Cleaner: This cleaner is slightly more expensive but is effective in eliminating deposits, residue, and even rust from the fuel system. It will also clean your combustion chamber and valves.
• Liqui Moly Jectron Fuel Injection Cleaner: This product is popular among German car enthusiasts. It cleans injectors and keeps intake valves clear of deposits, resulting in a smoother idle, increased power, and improved fuel mileage. It has also been known to improve throttle response and fix rough idling issues.
• Chevron Techron Concentrate Plus Fuel System Cleaner: Chevron is a well-known brand that offers a total fuel system cleaner. Their product includes the exclusive "Techron" additive, which has been used in their gasoline for decades, as well as the detergent PEA. However, it is important to note that this cleaner is intended for gasoline engines only.
• Red Line Complete SI-1 Fuel System Cleaner: This cleaner is considered by some to be the top fuel injector cleaner on the market due to its well-regarded brand. It contains polyether amines, which maximize its cleaning potential, and synthetic cylinder lubricants that enhance the quality of combustion chambers and valves. While it is one of the more expensive options, it offers a blend of detergents and lubricants that go beyond just cleaning the injectors.
• Royal Purple Max Atomizer Fuel Injector Cleaner: Royal Purple is a long-standing brand in the fuel injector cleaner market, and they continuously improve their cleaning formula. Their product effectively eliminates carbon build-up, resulting in improved power, fuel mileage, and smoother idling for clogged injectors. It is safe for use in both gasoline and diesel engines.

It is important to note that chemical cleaners should be used according to the manufacturer's instructions and that regular, repeated treatments may be necessary for optimal results. Additionally, excessive use of these cleaners can lead to deposits on spark plugs and exhaust valves, causing further issues. Therefore, it is recommended to use them as a preventative measure rather than a solution for acute fuel system problems.

Mechanical cleaners

There are several methods for cleaning fuel injectors, ranging from DIY to professional ultrasonic cleaning. Here is a detailed overview of the mechanical cleaning process:

Step 1: Locate the Fuel Injectors

Fuel injectors are typically located near the engine intake manifold. However, it is advisable to consult your vehicle's owner manual for the exact location and details.

Step 2: Disconnect the Fuel Pump and Pressure Regulator

To prevent fuel from entering the injectors during cleaning, disconnect the fuel pump by removing the fuse or relay. Then, start the engine and let it run until it uses up the fuel in the lines and shuts off, depressurizing the fuel system.

Step 3: Disconnect the Fuel Injectors

Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors from each injector. Use a wrench to remove any bolts or fasteners holding the fuel rail in place, and then gently lift and remove the injectors. Handle them with care to avoid damage.

Step 4: Attach the Cleaning Kit

Follow the instructions provided with your chosen fuel injector cleaning kit. This usually involves attaching a hose from the kit to the fuel port on the fuel rail, bypassing the vehicle's fuel system, and providing a direct stream of cleaning solution to the injectors.

Step 5: Run the Cleaning Solution

Turn on the cleaning kit's pump and allow the cleaning solution to run through the injectors for about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the level of clogging and the kit's specifications. This solution will break down deposits inside the injectors.

Step 6: Reconnect the Fuel System

Once cleaning is complete, reattach the fuel rail with the injectors to the engine, ensuring all injectors are properly seated and secured. Reconnect the electrical connectors to each injector.

Step 7: Re-pressurize the Fuel System

Reconnect the fuel pump by replacing the previously removed fuse or relay. Turn the ignition to the "on" position briefly and then off again to re-pressurize the fuel system. Check for any leaks around the injectors and fuel rail.

Step 8: Test the Vehicle

Start the engine and let it idle to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Listen for any unusual noises and observe the engine's performance. Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure optimal injector performance.

Additional Tips:

• It is recommended to clean your fuel injectors about once a year or every 15,000 miles to prevent the buildup of harmful deposits.
• If your fuel injectors are heavily clogged, you may need to remove them for manual cleaning. Soak the injectors in a dedicated injector cleaner fluid and use compressed air to remove any remaining debris. Ensure all openings and seals are properly covered during this process.
• When choosing a cleaning kit, look for one that includes a canister of fuel injector cleaner and a hose that attaches to the fuel injector and fuel rail.
• Opt for a cleaning fluid that contains polyetheramine (PEA) to effectively dissolve thick carbon deposits.

Frequently asked questions