Debunking fuel-saving marketing, myths, etc

[bowtieguy]

Originally Posted by theholycow

WalMart's automotive fluids seem to be pretty decent, but I can understand being skeptical.

As for mechanics...I've heard them say all kinds of silly stuff, they're as bad as or worse than anyone else.

correct! sort of. obviously wal-mart does not make their stuff. someone else does...milk, chips, lipstick, fuel cleaner, whatever.

the problem is, most of the name brand cleaners are junk. the other thing is, i get my info from a VERY reputable mechanic/consumer advocate. that said, anyone can err, just some more than others.

[GasSavers_RoadWarrior]

IF a given fuel additive is not mineral spirits it's probably isopropyl alcohol. if it promises miracles it's probably a blend of the two with a touch of chlorinated hydrocarbon solvent. I just specify additive, no matter what it claims to do. O2 cleaner, fuel system cleaner, Octane Booster and engine decarb can all be the same stuff... IPA.... start looking up MSDS sheets...

[General]

Originally Posted by shatto

Is the point of 'Hypermiling' to be able to say you did it?

Do you not consider the cost of what you do and the return on your investment?

Where is scientific evidence that 'high octane' for a few tanks will actually 'clean' an engine? It does not properly combust in an engine designed and tuned for regular gasoline, so you are in fact, burning money you might better use elsewhere.

What it helps to clean out is Your Wallet. If Your engine needs cleaning [Carbon], I just crank the engine and speed it up just a little and pour a little water down the carb. You can tell if You're pouring too much water when the engine starts to throttle down. I usually put about a pint of H2O before I'm through. This is known as steam cleaning. WaLa

Have fun

[Snax]

This technique works very well if done correctly and won't fuel the Wal-Mart union busting, no health insurance providing, selling cheap crap from China, local market crushing machine.