should i clean out my intercooler from any oily contamination - im thinkning along the lines of what happens to throttle bodies and idle flap motors?
If so how does one clean out an intercooler?
Regards
Paul
I think the engine breather system circulates oil mist and crankcase blowby gases through the aftercooler so it will get contaminated over time. I've just done a check on the web and many owners (landrover, beetle, Mini JC Works) have found it worthwhile to clean out the core. The solvents used vary from carb cleaner to petrol, generally followed by a flush with water. Ideally the aftercooler should be removed from the car but that a lot of work. I'd be tempted to use a water soluble degreaser like Muck-Off ( http://www.performancemotorcare.com/acatalog/Muc_Off_De_Greaser_500ml__1340.html ) followed by a flush with warm water then a blast with compressed air to get rid of all the moisture.
Next time I have the bonnet off I'll check the aftercooler core connections to see if its possible to do it while still on the car.
Another possibility is to use an intake system cleaning spray which would be easier but possibly not as effective. Not tried it myself but Carbon blaster is one example - http://www.dieselbob.co.uk/fueladditives.shtml
