Oil Sludge removal

BERNSAX

MEMBER
DODGE

After reading responses to my question about the 2.7 engine, I am curious about removing possible existing sludge. I think I now understand the problem with the timing chain of this engine.

The car I just bought has 27,000 miles on it. I have no idea if the previous owner actually changed the oil on a proper schedule.

One of the articles I read says not to add any type of oil additive that will remove sludge.

If I use a quality oil such as Castrol and change it within 3,000 miles, will the possible sludge eventually disappear?

Thanks to all that responded to my previous post.

1 Reply

MIKEYBDMAN

MECHANIC
623 POSTS

There are additives that will break up the sludge, however I do not suggest using them. Think of sludge like chlestorol in your blood. It gets in there, and circulates around and usually finds a place to build up. Over the years the build up, if in the wrong spot can cause a blockage and then stroke. Now, on the other hand, if we go breaking up the sludge and have it start flowing thru the system again, we run the chance of it collecting in the wrong spot and causing a stroke.
So, Dr. Mike is going to tell you to do your oil changes and try to avoid new build up of sludge. The engine is running good now, and as long as it doesnt build up more, then you should be alrite. It did make sense that if there are some hot spots burning the oil, it may make sludge reguardless of what you do. But are you going to go thru life worrying about the what might happens? Do what you are supposed to do, and hopefully your car will not have problems. If it is going to make you crazy with worry, then sell the car while it is working good.