QuestionHey Tim, I own a 2001 sienna. I believe I have a sludge problem and I am going to attempt to do my own engine flush at home. I don't care for the machines that force the fluids through so I am doing it at home. I see numerous products on the shelf and am wondering if you might be able to recommend one of the motor/engine flush products? I am removing the oil pan as well and attempting to clean the oil screen too. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Thanks,
Dennis.
AnswerDennis,
I would definitely remove valve covers and take a look at oil drain holes, make sure their not blocked.
Unfortunately we're starting to see some Toyota engines from 1998
on having sludge problems. The reason this happens is some people
just don't change their oil at regular intervals, don't think its important, its the most neglected thing on a vehicle. I'm not saying you did this, perhaps the person before you did. I've seen vehicles with 9000 miles between oil changes !! Stop and go driving in the city causes more sludge problems than highway driving. I never like driving more than 2500 miles between oil changes, what's the point? Oil/filters are cheap, there is no excuse, but people do neglect.
Sludge makes engines wear out and fail prematurely.
I think any name brand product would be OK to try,hopefully
it will help, do exactly what they say in the directions, it varies.
At least you have the common sense to resolve the problem, unfortunately most folks just keep on driving until the engine blows.
Please let me know how you make out.
Tim
ToyDoc
