Failed Mechanic Hacks

Discussion in 'Challenger Mechanical Problems Forum | TSB's' started by SRT-Tom, Oct 10, 2024.

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  1. Oct 10, 2024 at 9:15 AM #1
    SRT-Tom

    SRT-Tom Well-Known Member Staff Member Super Moderator Article Writer

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    Uncle Tony's garage exposes two old school mechanic hacks.

    The first one is to add ATF or Marvel Mystery Oil into the throttle body to clean intake valves. The second hack, sometimes employed by used car dealers, is to add brake fluid to a transmission to stop gasket leaks.

    Uncle Tony explains how both of these hacks can lead to big trouble.

    Two Old School Mechanic Hacks That Are Unnecessary And Can Hurt Your Car (youtube.com)
     
  2. Oct 10, 2024 at 4:32 PM #2
    Sexy Blue

    Sexy Blue Full Access Member

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    I have put brake fluid in older vehicles with seal leaks, it works.
     
  3. Oct 10, 2024 at 5:07 PM #3
    SRT-Tom

    SRT-Tom Well-Known Member Staff Member Super Moderator Article Writer

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    Last edited: Oct 11, 2024
  4. Oct 10, 2024 at 11:21 PM #4
    baccaruda

    baccaruda Full Access Member

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    It is not something my shop or i would do, But i know guys that claim it works and had no problems.The youtube guy is like watching NBC or CBS news.....LOL
     
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  5. Oct 11, 2024 at 5:27 AM #5
    SRT-Tom

    SRT-Tom Well-Known Member Staff Member Super Moderator Article Writer

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    Uncle Tony is an experienced MOPAR engine builder and racer. I trust his opinion.
     
    Last edited: Oct 11, 2024
  6. Oct 11, 2024 at 9:16 AM #6
    Sexy Blue

    Sexy Blue Full Access Member

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    I remember fork oil used on my dirt bikes, used to say, "with seal swell." Probably was brake fluid. Anyhow, never had a problem using it in the past, and that has been a long time, on a vehicle that might have been worth $500. I doubt I would add it to my modern vehicles.
     
  7. Oct 11, 2024 at 10:21 AM #7
    baccaruda

    baccaruda Full Access Member

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    Well, you can have him as your mechanic. I have never seen him at any NHRA event competing. It is just one man's opinion and you have your right and I do too.
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Oct 11, 2024
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  8. Oct 15, 2024 at 9:54 AM #8
    fritzthecat

    fritzthecat Full Access Member

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    I think it’s generally not a good idea to put fluids that aren’t the correct ones in your car. I’ve heard of it, but I don’t think it works. I don’t see how spraying oil in your intake can possibly clean valves. If anything, you don’t want oil in your intake, that’s why we put catch cans on our cars. Brake fluid is nasty stuff. I’m not sure what the chemical is in there, but if you get it on your hands it kinda burns. It’s good for brake systems, but I won’t be pouring it into my engine or transmission. I won’t be drinking bleach to cure COVID, either! :badidea:
     
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  9. Oct 19, 2024 at 10:25 AM #9
    Moparisto

    Moparisto Full Access Member

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    He has decades and decades of NHRA competition, including fuelers, does he not?
     
  10. Oct 19, 2024 at 11:00 AM #10
    baccaruda

    baccaruda Full Access Member

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    LOL
     
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