Crockpot not working!

[Andrew Tinsley]

Just a quick one. Tried crockpoting an engine. Used my usual antifreeze (ethylene glycol based). Couldn't remember if I diluted it in the past (senior memory lapse!). Tried it neat  and then 50-50  with water. Results were terrible, hardly any cleaning action. It softened the castor deposits and I could rub it off. What am I doing wrong? Too concentrated? I have left the engine soaking on the "hot" setting for 10 hours! Usually this is enough to strip off anodising, let alone castor!!

Andrew.

[tom hampshire]

Hi Andrew - Try changing the anti freeze.  Mine loses its effectiveness after about ten or so engines.  Tom H.

[Alan Hahn]

Just a quick one. Tried crockpoting an engine. Used my usual antifreeze (ethylene glycol based). Couldn't remember if I diluted it in the past (senior memory lapse!). Tried it neat  and then 50-50  with water. Results were terrible, hardly any cleaning action. It softened the castor deposits and I could rub it off. What am I doing wrong? Too concentrated? I have left the engine soaking on the "hot" setting for 10 hours! Usually this is enough to strip off anodising, let alone castor!!

Andrew.

FWIW, I leave mine in the solution for 24 hours. As long as the entire engine is covered it comes out looking pretty clean. Any uncovered part turns an ugly dark gray color.

I agree that the antifreeze needs to be refreshed occasionally!

[Dennis Adamisin]

...and it really does not hurt to keep a toothbrush handy to gently scrub off the bad stuff as it softens...

[Larry Fulwider]

FWIW, I leave mine in the solution for 24 hours. As long as the entire engine is covered it comes out looking pretty clean. Any uncovered part turns an ugly dark gray color.
. . .

Alan --

Well I'll be! I've heard people complain about the "ugly dark gray color" (I've never had that problem), but never heard a logical explanation before. Makes sense.

My big, strong, handsome wife taught me crockpot techniques, and she dunks the bird deep, like an enthusiastic Baptist. What's good for chickens is good for Foxes, right? (or some metaphor I forgot, foxes, chicken coops, something)

My experiences have been good -- 24 hours, Prestone premium "Long Life", full strength, never any problems, never any residue that wouldn't come off with mild brushing.

Larry Fulwider

[Andrew Tinsley]

The antifreeze is from the same gallon that I used before. Its fresh and last time I used it, I had great results after 12 hours. I can't remember what dilution I used (if any!). Hence my query, never did trust this wet chemistry!

Andrew.