Well, if the seal isn't torn or otherwise damaged we might be able to do something for you. There is the possibility that the seal is just fouled. Once clean it may relax and work again. I would imagine that you may see an increase in leakage during the Auto-Rx treatment as any contamination is removed. If the seal is indeed damaged, there will be no remedy other than repair/replacement.
As far as "safe", all Auto-Rx can do is clean. It doesn't swell, condition, or otherwise impact anything in an altering way. It's not a sealer/conditioner or anything of that nature.
This is a sludge prone engine. Are you sure you do not have issues related to that problem? Have you had your PCV system checked to assure it's functional, clear, and intact? This can allow higher than normal crankcase pressures that could make your seal issue worse.
But if you are SURE that the engine is sludge free, then proceed with the normal cleaning and rinse phases with a single bottle of Auto-Rx. Your 4000 mile intervals should be fine here. You should use a conventional oil or perhaps an approved Group III synthetic. Please read this oil selection is very important.
geeaea
This is also a very important distinction. These instructions are ONLY if your engine is not experiencing a sludge condition that the Toyota/Lexus engines of this model year were noted for (SLUDGE)
Add a bottle of Auto-Rx to a fresh oil and filter. (your 4000 mile interval is fine). Change oil and filter - DO NOT ADD AUTO-RX Drive at least 3000 miles (your 4000 mile interval is fine) Change oil and filter.
I would do one additional conventional oil (or approved synthetic) interval without adding anything.
If the seal can be cleaned and relax, it should occur somewhere in the rinse phase or the next "no additive" interval.
If this is a byproduct of a sludge condition, then this treatment may not be enough. These engines tend to form hardened tar like deposits that are quite stubborn and require double dose (2 bottles) treatments and a commitment from the end user to do timely filter changes. I'd recommend verifying that the engine has no unusual deposit accumulations.
-- Edited by Frank Miller on Saturday 5th of February 2011 08:35:55 AM
