jj,
Good question.
Since ATF's do not see blow-by gasses, there is no need for the same concentration or type of detergents. What ATF's need most, in the form of additives, are anti-oxidants, anti-foamants, and the proper mix of Friction Modifiers (such as sulfurs, chlorines, phosphates, and esters).
As I stated before, an engine FLUSH is a SHORT-TERM situation and not to be used for more than 20 minutes at fast idle and is NOT to be driven. An oil change is a MUST after using a FLUSH.
Flushes are not to be used in the crankcase while being driven. Engines are NOT designed to be lubricated (or more accurately, the lack thereof) with flushes.
A flush is a set of chemicals (usually hydrocarbon solvents with some detergent sulfonates).
Products such as Lube Control [16 oz.], Schaeffer's Neutra 131 (292) [12 - 16 oz], and Amsoil's Engine Flush can be used for this purpose.
Long Term cleaning can be had with ester-based products such as Auto-RX. Auto-RX is one of the few cleaners that can used while driving.
[ February 12, 2003, 04:24 PM: Message edited by: MolaKule ]