Cleaning your VVT with Kreen

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) has become a staple of most modern engine designs. VVT operation depends on hydraulic oil pressure from a long winding path of tiny oil passages known as "vanes". Oil for the VVT system is filtered through a tiny screen, then passed to the Oil Control Valve (OCV). The OCV allows oil to pass on to the to the VVT controller/actuator. The oil pressure turns the controller which advances or retards the intake and exhaust cams. The ECU decides how much to open or close the OCV based on engine revolutions, throttle position, engine coolant temperature and intake air volume. Oil pressure is regulated, which turns the actuator to different positions.

Vulnerable deposits, a dirty VVT system can impact engine performance, gas mileage and give you annoying ticks. This is especially noticeable at startup. Changing the oil on time and the use of premium synthetic oils go a long way to keeping the system clean. But there are times where manual intervention is necessary. Before you start tearing the VVT system apart, try an oil additive called Kreen from Kano Labs. Its an industrial cleaner not sold retail, as it can be hazardous if not handled properly. Kreen is very effective at reducing hardened carbon deposits and varnish. Not a fast flush, Kreen can be added to the oil and driven while the cleaning process takes place.

The way I use Kreen is adding 3oz per qt of oil for 1,000 miles, change the oil. So for example if you change your oil every 5,000 miles you would add Kreen at 4,000. I also suggest use outside or in a well ventilated area, and transfer Kreen from its aluminum container to a glass bottle.

Kreen can also be used as a piston soak and in the gas as a fuel system cleaner. Using this product every 30,000 miles will give you a trouble free quiet VVT system.