cleaning all the sand from engine compartment
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Junior User
Joined: May 2006
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cleaning all the sand from engine compartment
I live in iowa and after the winters there is sand on the battery, valve covers, and here and there. Ive been using compressed air and that helps some but, wondering about thoughts of the power washer from a distance so it gently sprays the sand away. Ive heard horror stories of sensors being ruined. Any suggestions either way?
Thanks, red dog
Thanks, red dog
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 145
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From: Surrey
I wash my truck's engine compartment regularly with a garden hose and so far did not encounter any problems. I usually cover the alterator, the brake and power steering bottles with a small plastic bag. I also keep my spray away from the ECU. I never dare to use power washer because it may be too strong to push the water into connectors and sensors.
This is just my opinion.
This is just my opinion.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 6,127
Likes: 6
There is no good way.
Water is needed to wash away salt.
So you have to ask yourself ... what is your poison.
Stay away from harnesses, connectors (where water may be forced in).
Use a light garden hose rinse to wash those of salt.
Water is needed to wash away salt.
So you have to ask yourself ... what is your poison.
Stay away from harnesses, connectors (where water may be forced in).
Use a light garden hose rinse to wash those of salt.
Postmaster
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 4,329
Likes: 4
From: manchester,ct
i clean my engine compartment all the time with the garden hose and no problems. I do like the back-pack blower idea also. that should get the neighbors scratching their heads saturday morning
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The owners book also shows you what parts to cover with plastic. Its only two things and I can remember off hand, other than that you are good to go.
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Senior User
Joined: Aug 2009
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From: Ontario, Canada
I've never had an issue with using a pressure washer in the engine bays of any of my vehicles. I start with the vehicle at full operating temperature and leave it running while doing so. The warm engine compartment helps evaporate any excess water so it isn't allowed to become stagnant and seep into area's you really don't want it to.
As stated, keep electrical components out of the stream of direct high pressure water and you really haven't much to concern yourself with.
If it’s really cruddy, feel free to spray the engine with some form of degreaser first, but make sure you've thoroughly rinsed it off. I imagine the grease cutting power of some of these industrial strength cleaners would be more corrosive than any amount of salt when allowed to linger on electrical components.
I used to use a product called Purple Power years ago to cut the heavy grease. Not sure if they still make it though?
As stated, keep electrical components out of the stream of direct high pressure water and you really haven't much to concern yourself with.
If it’s really cruddy, feel free to spray the engine with some form of degreaser first, but make sure you've thoroughly rinsed it off. I imagine the grease cutting power of some of these industrial strength cleaners would be more corrosive than any amount of salt when allowed to linger on electrical components.
I used to use a product called Purple Power years ago to cut the heavy grease. Not sure if they still make it though?
Postmaster
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 3,392
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From: Greenvile, SC
I used to clean my '99 Ranger's engine compartment the same way Gearbanger mentioned above, but I would try my hardest to keep any cleaning solutions away from the belt.
Past personal experiences has landed me with a belt that popped off (while @ the car wash) and got entangled in my fan and bent up both trans-cooler lines.
Good thing I kept spare belts and my serpintine belt wrench in the tool box...
Past personal experiences has landed me with a belt that popped off (while @ the car wash) and got entangled in my fan and bent up both trans-cooler lines.
Good thing I kept spare belts and my serpintine belt wrench in the tool box...
Cargo Master
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 2,013
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From: Cajun Country
When i'm done cleaning my engine I let it idle for about 10 minutes.Then I spray everything down with silicone spray.I wipe off the excess with a rag.This gives everything that new look and leaves a coat of protection on everything.
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