Seafoam has been there for decades and it’s said to clear build-up in your engine. However, when you do more research, you will find out that there are a lot of mixed opinions regarding the use of Seafoam on the engine.
Some praise its capabilities whereas others think it will damage it. So, can Seafoam hurt your engine?
From what I have gathered, Seafoam when used in adequate amounts can clear the build-up of oil and dirt in your engine.
However, when used in significant amounts, it can do more harm than good. It is because of these particular reasons that I have always been skeptical about using such products.
In my opinion, the surest way of cleaning your engine is having a professional mechanic do it manually. And if something is wrong with your engine, using Seafoam is just like putting a band-aid on a gunshot.
In the past, I have had my fair share of engine problems caused by using the wrong products. And ever since, I have always been cautious about what I use.
To understand further the effects of Seafoam on your engine, let’s look at what it is, what it does, and whether you should use it on your engine.
What is Seafoam?
The engine, similar to other car parts, is exposed to all manners of dirt. Quite often, years of driving around will end up with your engine system all clogged and messed up.
More so, inside the crankcase where you will find oil, that’s where everything is likely to build up. Also, all oil components such as lifters, rings, and pistons can experience the above.
A clogged-up engine will perform terribly on the road. The chances of that particular engine dying on you are very high because oil build-up makes it hard for the engine to cool.
Another part of your car that goes through the same problem is the fuel system. Even though the fuel is said to be clean, dirt does find its way into your fuel system and causes unnecessary clogging. The effects include carbon deposits on pistons and suffocation of the engine.
All these issues are going to lead you to Seafoam. This popular treatment for clogged-up engines has been around for 70 years.
It is popularly used by mechanics and car owners to liquefy carbon deposits, sludge, and gum so that these contaminants can be easily flushed out of your engine. It also lubricates moving parts as well as the fuel system and ensures better performance.
This all sounds great, right? But why is it that 6 out of 10 comments on most forums only talk about the negatives of using Seafoam? It all comes down to how to use the product and the current condition of your engine.
If the build-up in your engine was sealing a hole somewhere in the crankcase, and you pour some Seafoam on it. Your engine will start leaking and you may blame Seafoam yet your engine was already problematic.
How to Use Seafoam Properly?
There are three main areas where you can use Seafoam and they include;
In the Crankcase
Add 1/3 of the bottle to the oil and Seafoam will clean up any sludge in your oil components. It will also silence noisy filters. To get the most out of Seafoam, you should use at least 100 miles before an oil change.
In your first treatment, you are likely to notice significant improvements. From there, Seafoam will only keep things running smoothly and clean. To use Seafoam in your car’s crankcase, pour it directly on the oil filler neck.
Fuel
A bottle of Seafoam can treat more than 50 liters of fuel. It will penetrate the oil deposit and remove any contaminant that is affecting your car’s performance.
Top End of Your Engine
This is the delicate part. Because you just can aimlessly pour Seafoam on your engine, you are better off using the spray. It is more conservative as it ensures the product doesn’t enter the wrong chambers.
Does Seafoam Chemical Composition Make It Bad for a Car’s Engine?
Not at all. Seafoam comprises IPA, naphtha, and pale oil. The combination of these three ingredients will liquefy sludge deposits.
But it won’t in any way alter your car’s performance. These ingredients won’t hurt your engine, instead, they will be a nightmare for particles that are clogging your pipes and systems.
A clogged engine is a car owner’s worst nightmare. It hinders the normal operation of your crankcase, fuel system, and pistons. That is why if you suspect your engine is clogged, using Seafoam can revive and return it to its initial performance.
Why Should I Use Seafoam on My Engine?
Contrary to what you may have heard, Seafoam is internationally recognized as an effective engine and fuel system cleaner. It can be used on diesel and gasoline engines.
The ingredients found in Seafoam are safe for engine use and are not corrosive. It’s also a de-icer because it contains an anti-gel.
Another reason why people like Seafoam is its ability to penetrate passageways and intake valves to remove dirt build-up.
Are There Any Dangers of Using Seafoam on My Car Engine?
Similar to other products, Seafoam does have a few disadvantages. For engines that are heavily clogged up, Seafoam can unloosen a significant amount of sludge and force it to jam or burst open a bypass valve.
This is something you need to be aware of if you are considering using this form of treatment.
There is an alternative, however, if you are afraid of Seafoam damaging your engine, you can always perform an oil change.
This is the safest and oldest trick in the book. New oil will lubricate moving parts in your car and will be free from dirt and other contaminants.
Also, before you go ahead and use Seafoam, please be informed that no manufacturer recommends this product.
The reason is they believe that through regular car maintenance, the likelihood of massive build-up in your engine or fuel system is almost impossible. And should there be a need for a thorough cleaning, the engine can be opened by a professional and cleaned.
Can Seafoam Damage Gas System?
This is the same case with your engine. Seafoam will treat a dirty gas tank and remove contaminants. However, you should use the right amount, preferably half a bottle.
I am yet to come across a scenario where excessive use of Seafoam caused any gas problems. Instead, Seafoam has lots of positive reviews about its ability to clean the fuel system and fuel injector.
When Should I Use Seafoam on Engine?
Having ruled out that Seafoam isn’t bad for your engine, you are probably wondering when should I use it. According to the manufacturer of this product, Seafoam should be used on your engine system every 2000 to 5000 miles.
Newer cars definitely won’t need frequent use of Seafoam as is the case with older cars. It’s your job to listen to your car and its performance.
If you suspect that the engine is clogged, get your hands on some Seafoam. And if you don’t notice any visible results after a week, have it looked at by a mechanic.
Will Seafoam Ruin Spark Plugs?
The spark plugs are an integral part of your engine. And if you have some concerns about Seafoam damaging your engine, then you should confirm its effects on your spark plugs.
The chances are very rare for Seafoam to damage your engine’s spark plugs. However, it isn’t formulated to do so. The reason why your spark plugs may get damaged because of Seafoam is that your engine produces lots of carbon smoke.
In summary, if your spark plugs were about to die, Seafoam will make this happen sooner. And depending on how you look at this scenario, it can be a pro or con.
N.B. You can find more information here Does Seafoam Clean Fouled Spark Plugs?
What Happens When You Leave Seafoam in Your Car Engine?
Nothing is going to happen when you leave Seafoam in your car engine. When it mixes up with oil, it moves to different parts of your engine liquefying build-up.
It doesn’t affect the performance of oil in your car. Seafoam will be drained the next time you are making an oil change.
Is Seafoam Toxic to Your Engine?
Other than performing its intended purpose, Seafoam is not toxic to your engine. The only thing it can be toxic to is if it gets in touch with sensitive parts of the human body such as the eyes or mouth.
Is Seafoam a Popular Engine Treatment Product?
Though not the best engine cleaner on the market, Seafoam is a commonly used engine treatment. It’s a favorite amongst mechanics.
What I love most about Seafoam is that it’s multi-purpose. It can be used to clean both the engine and the fuel system. It also does an excellent job at lubricating the engine as this helps in preventing wear and tear.
The engine, being a sensitive car part, you need not worry about damaging it with Seafoam because its ingredients are gentle and safe for use.