Washed engine compartment...
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Freshman User
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Washed engine compartment...
Over the weekend I found out I had quite a massive oil leak. So, in order to determine where it was, I tightened my valve covers, unhooked my batteries and degreased my engine with a hose. After refilling with almost a gallon of oil and cleaning I tried to crank up the truck. It started but then the rpms would drop and the check engine light would flicker on, then idle normal and back and forth it goes.. Any ideas??
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Freshman User
Joined: Mar 2016
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Thanks I'll try that!
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 7,760
Likes: 27
From: Hampton, Maryland.
You really never should pressure wash an engine that is installed in a vehicle. Water under pressure blows past the seals in the all weather connectors and gets in places you don't EVER want water to infiltrate. Always cover the alternator and PS reservoir with plastic bags, spray a COOL engine liberally with simple green or other mild degreaser of your choice, rinse with low pressure hose water, repeat as necessary. When satisfied, remove the bags, then start her up and go for a ride.
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Cargo Master
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 2,871
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From: SoCal/Wyoming
I have washed mine several times over the years and while I use a small piece of aluminum foil over my PS cap, I have never covered the ALT. I also soak it down with simple green, let it set 5-10 minutes and then rinse it off with the hose on shower setting.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 7,760
Likes: 27
From: Hampton, Maryland.
The reason for covering the ps cap is there usually is a little hole in it for breathing. It is so small, it would be very hard for water to enter, but in the right circumstance, it could.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 4,744
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From: Earth
You have water some place it should not be, most likely the alt, my 95 did as described, but after getting the engine to operating temperature and driving around for about 30 minutes all was good
Logistics Pro
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 3,670
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From: Fallon,NV & Bainbridge OH
Don't be afraid to pressure wash you engine compartment. I have Hotsy'ed mine for years without issue. I have been washing engines for more than 40 years with never a problem, but then again knowing water and electricity are not good bed fellows I avoid electrical components as well as any type of cap area, especially oil caps. Just saying. I was a trained heavy equipment mechanic for the Marine Corps and an ASE certified mechanic upon discharge.
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