GREEN PERFORMANCE

These days, everyone and everything seems to claim that going environmentally friendly is a feature to be desired. After all, why wouldn’t you want to be more conservative with resources while generating the same performance in any approach? However, this push to “greener pastures” when it comes to automotive technology seems to favour getting a new vehicle altogether.

Perhaps, there is an easy and effective way to lower tailpipe emissions for current vehicles in our workshops? Could we incorporate it into regular servicing and repair? Aside from recycling the oil we change, or using digital vs. paper where applicable, what can we give to the customer to be “greener” when they leave our workshop?

PATHFINDER’S EMISSIONS

With Australian fuel rated as some of the lowest quality in the world, it’s not particularly easy for OEMs to cater to the climate here. (I discussed fuel quality in another article before the last election, now with renewed interest - https://www.bgaustralia.com.au/news/technical-advice/australian-fuel-quality ) Yet even in Europe, a place with some of the highest emission standards, high quality fuels still fall short in keeping automobiles roadworthy.

MOT testing is part of regular vehicle inspection for many European countries, and the regulations are only becoming more stringent. We have used chemicals to clean fuel and oil systems to assist in passing MOT testing in Europe, but what about here in Australia? Why not test and see where the current state of our customer’s emissions, but using Australian vehicles, Australian fuel, and in Australian conditions?

This is the first of many case studies conducted to measure the effectiveness of chemical cleaners to lower tailpipe emissions. Thus, I intended to find a suitably “dirty” candidate in attempt to tidy up.

Chris at Smooth Drive Automotive was able to supply such a potential candidate. A 2004 Nissan Pathfinder with 245,840 km on the clock seemed the likely suspect of using cheap 91 RON and being anything but green.
The oversized tyres, light bars, and abundant amount of dust alluded to its occasional offroad adventures. Chris discussed the vehicle was not in need of repair and has provided service regularly.

The customer’s complaint of poor economy and fuel stench were noted.

After a brief 15 min test-drive the vehicle arrived at operating temp. The testing measured four gaseous emissions at idle for 1 minute after start-up and recorded values at peak HC. Values were recorded again when values were “level” (no change in value for one minute of runtime).

A third measurement was taken at the 15-minute mark to review the data trend. From the initial collected data, the vehicle produced plenty of HC to get started before dropping off and climbing again later. Scan tool and fuel trim data might give insight to the behaviour.

Once the initial data was recorded, Chris proceeded in servicing the Pathfinder using the Performance Petrol Service kit #6577 from BG Products. Using a Sakura oil filter and 3.7 litres of Phoenix PX Ultra Blend 10w-40 oil, the service was complete.

A 15-minute test drive afterward ensured drivability and a return to operating temperature. Again, emissions were recorded using the same outline as before the service.
Although the pathfinder still produces a moderate amount of HC upon starting, the rate at which it decreases and remains low is a massive improvement. The lowered idle RPM in combination with fuel trim readings may also have a combined effect. The service indeed lowered the emissions of the vehicle and could be considered a “green” service.”