This is posted elsewhere here on FTE so I get a good range of usable info.

Re: 2005 E350 Club Wagon van

So had an Accusump accumulator rupture (due defective end cap threads) and because it was mounted over top of the intake just in front of the throttle body it made quite a mess in the engine bay. I'm curious how to best clean the oil off the engine? The engine has about 1200 miles on a reman'd install and I hate it being dirty already.

What products and procedures have worked? I have heard of those using pressure washers and too harsh of cleaners causing all sorts of problems I'd like to avoid. Naturally the quick and easy low-effort process is preferred but if it means I'm removing bits of the induction or electrical system that's fine too.

TIA

 

That sucks JWA. I have always kept mine clean by just using rags and different chemicals. Simple green is good as well as any type of degreaser. It may take longer but you won't hurt anything in the process.

Grab a 12 pack and go at it!

 

Spray it off at the car wash then immediately take it home and blow out the spark plug wells.

 

Thanks for the advice guys---good stuff. I think I have this whipped for now...........

I had to mop up a lot of oil pooled in the galley first using heavier paper shop towels. Once that was gone a can or two of break cleaner cleaned it out. I did remove the alternator for better access from the front, being a van I had a lot of room at the back with the dog house removed.

I was concerned about the plug wells but removing the left side front COP's showed no oil had seeped into those. Since there's no oil on the top side of the heads I won't have to degrease or wash that part of the engine.

With the alternator out of the way I could reach almost to the bellhousing. There was very, very little oil anywhere else but the air cleaner housing and duct work back to the throttle body was removed and cleaned too. Very little to no oil on any electrical connectors or wiring harnesses but all that was wiped down anyway---I was in there so no harm doing a bit of clean up.

Running the engine up to operating temps there was no oil burn off so it seems I have most of it gone. I'll do this again within the year if not soon---its a reman'd engine so keeping it clean will show any issues with leaking intake or coolant.

Thanks again---good advice here!