How many minutes and what RPM is needed for high-speed driving to clean carbon deposits?
2 Answers
On the highway, using an appropriate gear to keep the engine running above 3500 RPM for more than 15 minutes can effectively remove carbon deposits. For example, driving at 110 km/h in 3rd gear or around 140 km/h in 4th gear. Below are relevant explanations: 1. Carbon deposits: Carbon deposits in engines refer to a coking-like substance produced from unsaturated olefins and gum in fuel under high-temperature conditions during engine operation. 2. Carbon cleaning: The theoretical basis of so-called high-speed driving to clean carbon deposits is to make the engine work continuously at high RPM, maintaining high intake/exhaust pressure and cylinder working temperature, which helps wash away carbon deposits not fully adhered to the cylinder walls and burn them into exhaust gases.
I think the idea of clearing carbon deposits by driving at high speeds is something I've encountered in my own driving experience. Generally, it's recommended to maintain around 3000 to 4000 RPM for about 10 to 15 minutes. By keeping the engine running at high speeds, some carbon deposits can be burned off due to the high temperatures. However, this should be done safely on highways, not in congested traffic, as it could easily lead to accidents. By the way, this method has limited effectiveness. If carbon buildup is severe, it's best to have it handled at a repair shop or use fuel additives regularly. Doing it occasionally is fine, but doing it too frequently might damage engine components, such as piston wear. Remember, safety first—find an open stretch of road and accelerate gradually.
