David asked 4 years ago
Hello, I am a big fan of your old 3 step kit that you used to sell and am under the impression that the HEST cleaners are stronger than many of your competitors. I have experience trying out the CRC intake valve cleaner, ATP AT100, and the STP pro series kits that are also sold but am annoyed that the service interval is only 10-12k miles for GDI engines. I work for Firestone and can have a professional fuel system cleaning done using a QMI EK-10t kit but prefer to perform services at home myself rather than at work. My question to you is, how strong is the 2611 kit and is it better than your competitors products ( the ones I mentioned ) and can I get away with a 20k mile service interval like I would with a more professional system ( like the QMI kit I mentioned ) or should I also use the 2611 kit every 10-12k miles?
Please login or Register to submit your answer
Good morning, and thanks for your interest. When it comes to the chemistry of the formulas in question, I encourage you to compare the SDSs. Berryman INTAKE VALVE & COMBUSTION CHAMBER CLEANER (part #2611) lists three different active ingredients in very serviceable quantities and is the strongest of the group. At 16 oz, 2611 is also the largest of the offerings.
Additionally, 2611 has the only universal application system. Every other brand can only be applied either through a closed air-intake system or through the vacuum induction system. Regarding the latter, there is, of course, no shortage of vehicles without a PCV valve or that have a vacuum system that is only managed by one cylinder. In such a case, the cleaner is only sent to that one cylinder and the rest of the engine stays dirty. By contrast, 2611 can slip in under the air boot or go in through the vacuum system—whichever is more accessible and suitable for the vehicle. Thus, it is truly universal for 99% of fuel-injected gas engines.
As for how long a vehicle owner can/should go between cleanings, that is a seemingly simple-sounding question but with no great answer. As you know, every GDI engine is designed a little differently, and some engines build up deposits much more quickly than others. Some cars will benefit greatly from service every 10 or 12K miles, while others can go twice as long or even longer before needing such service. Unfortunately, “it all depends.”
Take a look at our how-to video for 2611 or 2640 and see what you think. Both are easy to apply and very effective at deposit removal. If you choose to try one out, I think you’ll be pleased with the ease of use and cleaning performance.