WALNUT BLASTING INLET VALVE CLEANING
Noticing a Drop in Your vehicles power?
For many newer German models equipped with petrol direct injection engines, carbon build-up is a common concern. Over time, carbon deposits accumulate in the intake valves, leading to reduced engine performance, misfires, sluggish acceleration, and more.
The good news? There’s a solution— walnut blasting.
At Carillon Services, our highly skilled technicians specialize in both modern and classic German autos. We’re equipped with cutting-edge walnut blasting equipment and operate from a state-of-the-art workshop, ensuring your vehicle receives only the best care.
We understand every car is different. That’s why we start with a comprehensive inspection to assess your vehicle’s needs before performing any service—ensuring we choose the right approach to restore your engine’s performance to its peak.
Bring your vehicle to Carillon Services and feel the difference.
What Causes Carbon Build-Up in Engines?
When your engine runs, it burns fuel and produces by-products like smoke, oil vapor, and unburnt hydrocarbons. In direct injection engines, these by-products can bypass traditional cleaning routes and get redirected through the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system back into the air intake. Over time, this causes carbon deposits to build up, especially on intake valves and ports. This build-up can lead to reduced performance, rough idling, increased fuel consumption, and even long-term engine damage if not addressed.
How to Prevent Carbon Build-Up in Direct Injection Engines
1. Regular Maintenance
Routine servicing ensures carbon doesn’t get a chance to accumulate heavily. Always follow your manufacturer’s service intervals, particularly for oil changes. Clean oil minimizes the amount of oil vapor entering the intake system.
2. Use Quality Fuel
High-quality fuels—especially premium fuel with detergent additives—burn more completely, reducing carbon deposits on critical engine parts like intake valves, piston rings, and spark plugs. Avoid using low-grade or off-brand fuels, as they may lack the detergents needed to keep your engine clean.
3. Walnut Blasting
Walnut blasting is a professional service that removes carbon deposits using finely ground walnut shells. It’s especially effective for cleaning intake valves in direct injection engines. Doing this every 50,000–70,000 km (or as recommended for your vehicle) can restore engine performance and efficiency.
walnut blasting is generally safe and highly effective for removing carbon buildup, especially on intake valves of direct injection engines. But like with any engine service, there are a few caveats and best practices to keep in mind:
Why It’s Considered Safe:
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Soft media: Crushed walnut shells are abrasive enough to remove carbon but soft enough not to damage aluminum or steel parts.
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Biodegradable & non-toxic: If small amounts are left behind, they typically burn off harmlessly during engine operation.
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Non-corrosive: Unlike chemical methods, walnut blasting won’t introduce corrosive agents into the engine.
How It Could Cause Damage (if not done properly):
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Improper sealing: If the intake valves are not fully closed during blasting, shells could enter the combustion chamber, potentially causing damage.
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Inexperienced technicians: Poor technique, incorrect pressure settings, or not vacuuming thoroughly can lead to media residue remaining in places it shouldn’t.
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Tool misuse: Using the wrong equipment or not following the procedure correctly can lead to physical damage or incomplete cleaning.
Key Takeaway:
Walnut blasting is safe when done correctly by a knowledgeable technician using proper equipment. It’s one of the best non-invasive ways to restore performance and fuel economy lost to carbon buildup—especially in GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engines.
