Car manufacturers say that you should have your diesel injector cleaned after every 100,000 miles or so of driving. However, there is no reason for you to pay the expensive fees that car repair shops charge for this procedure. You can completely clean the diesel fuel injectors right at home.
To clean your diesel injector, you need a few simple household items, some common tools and a few unique items. The simplest way to clean out the injectors is to pick up a diesel fuel purge kit, which comes with two bottles of cleaning solution designed to pressurize the insides of the injectors and force any contaminants out. In addition to this solution, you will also need two fuel hoses and a large bottle that can accommodate both of the fuel hoses. To complete the job, you also need a ratchet set with several different bold adaptors, a screwdriver, pliers and some old rags for cleaning. It is also a good idea to have a tray on hand to catch any spills.
For a slightly less thorough injector cleaning, you can use a bottled diesel fuel injector cleaner, which is poured directly into the system. This method of cleaning does not need any special tools.
The fuel injector purge is fairly simple, but you do need to watch out for a few things. One of the most important steps in cleaning diesel fuel injectors is locating the supply and return valves for the fuel. The supply valve brings new fuel into the injectors, while the return valve processes the used fuel. The supply line usually has a small filter attached to it. Disconnect the original hoses, and attach the new hoses that are connected to the bottle. Essentially, you are creating an external fuel injector line. Dump the cleaner or the purge solution into the bottle. Start the engine, and allow it to rev to different speeds. You must change the engine speed to ensure that all areas of the injectors are cleaned properly. Replace the original parts when you have finished.
Follow all instructions on the purge or cleaning solution, even if it goes against the instructions in this guide. Certain solutions designed for diesel engines may explode or cause damage to the engine or other parts of the vehicle if not used according to the manufacturer’s directions. Always were gloves and protective eyewear when working with cars, especially when the parts are hot.
