06XLT4x4

Hello gals and guys:

Went muddin' the other day and now my truck is dirty!

Question is: how do you wash your engine safely? With just a hose and soap? Tire Foam? Where do I "NOT" spray the water at?

ANY information would help, THANKS!

spec_ops57

I use a pressure washer with either soap or engine degreaser at the car wash. You don't want to have any strong pressure from the washer right on any of your sensors, hoses, etc.
The only parts I stay completely clear of is the battery, and my CAI.

Or, you can bring it in to a car detailers, and have them shampoo the engine. That's a bit more money than the car wash, but it's worth it IMO if your engine has never seen it.

rick99601

the battery is sealed and the air intake for the most part is.

you really need to keep water away from the COP's (coil on plugs) that sit on top of the spark plugs. water in the plug well will cause the engine to miss in a short amount of time.

06XLT4x4

Thank you!

Yeah, I really didn't know what part of the engine could and/or couldn't get wet.

Thanks again!

JCP281

When I wash my engine I use simple green and a nylon brush.

I have some baggies that I have made into protective coverings for my COPs and to cover the alternator. I also cover the battery. I pressure wash the plastic after soaking it with simple green and LIGHTLY hit the block. The less water you use the better.

After im done I take armour all and give the plastic a nice coat.

Be EXTREMELY careful about the solvent you use. The first time I did it I took off paint from my engine bay.. Thats why I now use simple green.

06XLT4x4

^^^ wow! Thanks for the heads up!

BassAckwards

And I know this is probably obvious but just in case. Don't wash your engine when its at temperature wait for it to cool off to be safe.

06XLT4x4

Yeah, that's what I figured. But I youtubed some video and this guy had his car running while spraying water from a hose at it, I was like WTF!

Is there something I don't know?

rick99601

i leave my engine running sometimes depending on the vehicle.

it wouldnt be very good to have a squeaky clean engine that wont start. if its running while you wash it thats not something you have to worry about.

they are 'water resistant' but are not 'water proof'

BassAckwards

Yeah I did forget to mention that. Either let your engine cool off or keep it running so it can sustain the heat and not cool rapidly