2002 95k VRS. Cleaned mine out this weekend, cant believe the amount of gunk that came out, definitely time for a catch can. No pics to busy cleaning the drive up.

Is it easy to get to... how much benefit do you get from cleaning it out?

its not had at all to get to , just undo your inner mud guard and its there two bolts i think and to hose clips and its off and would think a spray through with parts cleaner shold do it and if very bad possibly some think like jizer and wash it out with warm water

Possibly one of those 'clever' questions but what are the benefits of doing this?

Possibly one of those 'clever' questions but what are the benefits of doing this?

Basically, it will cool better once cleaned

The catch can stops the gunky oil getting there in the first place

Has anyone got a 'HOW TO' guide for this...pictures would be great!

I would be interested to know what products/process you used to clean the gunk out.

Just cleaned my smic out and after 3 years hard driving hardly any gunk has come out at all (which I assume is a good thing). I took the front bumper off and drivers side headlight out as there are 3 10mm bolts which are a pain to get to if you don't. Then 2 hose clips and it's off!

Edited 5 October, 201015 yr by sivrs

any products you can recommend?

any products you can recommend?

i used carb/injector cleaner and rinsed with hot water.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/STP-Carb-Choke-Cleaner-Spray-Carburettor-500ml-71500-/390171192746?pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item5ad803edaa

or any local car parts shop (halfrauds) should stock it

Is it easy to get to... how much benefit do you get from cleaning it out?

Easy with front bumper removed, would be possible with bumper in place but less room to access mounting points.

I would be interested to know what products/process you used to clean the gunk out.

Changed my fuel filter the same time used the petrol from the filter to dilute the gunk in SMIC, then used about 3/4 can of carb cleaner with nozzle and pipe off WD40 can to direct the carb cleaner down the fins, then rinsed through with warm water, left in airing cupboard overnight to dry out. Cleaned the outside of the SMIC with Wonder Wheels looked as good as new when finished.

Can't say i've noticed any difference to how the car runs, but it must be more beneficial to have a clean SMIC, than one full of gunk.