engine shampoo

Hi all,

I've already searched the archives without finding an answer to my
question. So here's the question.

I own an Accord 1990 EXR that leaks a little bit of oil - around 1
quart every three months.
I went to change my oil at a non-dealer mechanic and they said an
engine `shampooing' would get rid of the leak. Is this correct? Does it
necessarily have to be done in a dealership and can it damage anything?

thanks in advance
vlad

 

Cleaning the engine may help a mechanic see where the leak is coming from,
but it's not going to stop it. If anything, cleaning the engine may make
the leak worse.

 

The mechanic may have also been referring to using a cleaning oil to flush
the internal engine components. That could cause more damage because
particles may start floating around and get stuck in small holes needed for
proper lubrication and cause blockages.

 

Thanks a lot for clearing this for me. I'll just keep on adding a
little bit of oil from time to time instead of going into more trouble.

vlad

 

what brand oil are you using? i've had variable results from different
brands regarding leaks - long story short, castrol reduced my main seal
leakage to the point where it's effectively stopped. different brands
have different types and quantities of seal conditioners.

 

I've been putting in motomaster oil (cheapest I guess). I'll ask them
to use castrol next time.

thanks
vlad