Fact and Humor
One of the very first emotions that ran through my mind after the premature death of my 4Runner’s original engine was to broadcast a warning of the possible destructive effects of Seafoam. But as I managed the aftermath and fallout of the situation, it slowly dawned on me most people really didn’t care what I had to say. There were so many glowing and positive reviews of the product, my meager comments would be a simple counter breeze in a vast hurricane. I kept that view for several years until I read Scotty_h’s thread “New Engine Knock After Seafoam?” on this website.
Trying to improve your vehicle and then having the sinking feeling you made things worse was an emotion I could relate to so I posted my story in support of him. And some of the comments were exactly such that was the better judgment that kept me silent and from posting for so many years. If I wished to be sadden and depressed, I needn’t read anyone’s comments about how I did it wrong and it wasn’t the product, all I had to do was look at my empty wallet.
Which brings the story to this thread.
While I cannot testify as to the motive or reasons for why it was created, I was thankful that someone was trying to honestly provide an avenue that negative (and costly) outcomes of the product were given as much chance to be heard as those that were in stark—and overwhelming—contrast. I have also taken so much from this community in knowledge I felt it was time I give back something for the greater good of those known as Toyota 4Runner owners.
Originally I just posted links to my comments, but later realized that some probably don’t click on the links and go to the sources cited, thus I copied and pasted my original comments. And then it started..…again.
I come to this website and others like it to learn. And it is agreed that far too many views and positions voiced are based upon urban myths and legends, old wives tales, pipe dreams or a friend of a friend of a friend story as has been previously suggested. Often, there is no hard evidence or first person experience, just talk. Having had first person experience in the subject at hand, I entitled my previous comment based upon a mixture of fact and humor. From the tone and color it is apparent it was not received either way.
Where the view originated that it was the goal to fix something inside the engine with the use of Seafoam cannot be explained. The goal was not to fix anything. The goal was to flush and clean the 4Runner’s engine with the idea to prolong and extend its useful life when it appeared it had been denied basic preventive maintenance. From what is gathered reading other’s comments on their use of the product, it is submitted that is their goal also. From the literature the company provides its customers and users,
(
Using Sea Foam Motor Treatment in crankcase oil - Sea Foam Sales Company) it implies directly that is the very reason for the product’s existence.
Other submissions infer the product was used incorrectly. Some go so far to search out and imply unverifiable facts in their response which—it appears—maybe an effort to explain why a mechanical—or other unforeseen but not wanting—issue occurred. Regardless the case, great lengths, it seems, are used to justify its continued use and acceptance.
Commissioner Gordon (Gary Oldman) was so eloquent: “You’re a detective now, son. You’re not allowed to believe in coincidence anymore.” For 5,000 miles my 4Runner’s engine survived by following my trusted mechanic’s (and others who echo the same) advice: Use—and frequently change—a good quality oil and oil filter.
None of those types of aforementioned implications or submissions apply in this case. Seafoam in the engine oil one time (strictly adhering to their recommendations) and the engine failed immediately thereafter. You’re right Mr. Commissioner: It’s not a coincidence.
The meager benefits gained (acceleration, response, idle, cleaner engine, quieter lifters, etc.) aren’t worth the larger risks (total engine failure) involved. More practical and far less risky methods and practices are available and proven, many championed and used by seasoned (old) mechanics like mine. From the results of that first (and only) time use, Seafoam was forever removed from my tool chest.
I will make one last attempt: If anyone reading this is seriously contemplating the use of the product and wish to obtain a respectful, honest, intelligent, and low pressure view, then please PM me. As with these threads, I plan on being around long after this posting and would be more than happy to share my experience (although negative) about it. If someone had done that for me, it would have saved me a lot of misery, money, and time.
Good day.
