Engine Cleaning Question

Hi there just wondering on my 2008 Ford Explorer I want to clean the engine but im nervous about doing it as I dont want to wreck anything. I have read up on some to clean the engine just wondering do you guys recommend having the engine on or off during the whole engine cleaning. I have heard its better to have it on but was wondering what you guy thought. And also I have attached a picture of my trucks engine below to see if you guys recommend covering anything. The picture attached is just a stock photo for my truck as my engine is really dirty. Thanks

 

If I were to clean that engine I would cover the alternator and the two battery terminals. Just be sure if your using tin foil to not short out the battery.

 

Protection of Electrical Components

The most important electrical components are sealed ‘water resistant’, that is to say against low pressure, water splashing encountered in the course of daily driving conditions. As long as you avoid directing a strong stream of water (or a pressure washer at close range) directly into these components, you will be fine.

You need to cover various parts prior to using any cleaning products, sprays (water deterrent, formula 40(WD-40)) or water.

• Alternator
• Alarm Housing
• Intercooler
• Battery terminals (if not covered already)
• Induction kit cone (if you have one)
• Coil packs
• Electronic control units (ECU)
• On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port
• Air intake systems (exposed air filters) can be covered with plastic wrap and a rubber band

Notes:
1. This is not an exhaustive list, nor is it marquee specific, if in doubt use a water repellent (WD-40) and exercise common sense
2. Use cling-film and then tin foil for the alternator, alarm housing etc as the foil is easier to mould and has greater protection properties. I suggest you use a plastic bag for the induction kit and just wrap it tight over the end to stop any water ingress.3. For the intercooler the best way to cover is to get a flat sheet of cardboard and just cut it to size so it fits and covers the fins. Cardboard will normally protect the fins for the duration of the washing. It will get soaked so discard after the wash.

[EDIT 16.04.10 Note 2. ]

 

You may be right, ‘wrap with saran wrap and then foil.

FWIW- if there are electrical connections without protection fitted i.e. rubber ‘boots’ or plastic covers these should be added

 

+2 for saran wrap

As for leaving the engine running while cleaning :shead:

If you try spraying APC on an engine compartment with the engine running that crap is goona end up in your face. Thats also a good way to loose one of your digits in a fan belt :duh:

Be sure to clean the underside of the hood. Nothing worse then a clean engine and a dirty hood :gasp:

You also don't wanna use the spray nozzle on your garden hose. Unscrew and turn your water on low/steady stream and use your thumb as your sprayer. Wet the area, spay APC use brush, mit and a foam paint brush to get in the tight areas and rinse :headbang:

 

Looks like you've got a fairly easy cleaning job. Cover as Jon says, clean underside of hood(a good tip),on a cold engine spray down in sections with APC(not a GUNK like product)and work with a brush, rinse with low pressure water, air dry with leaf blower, spray down withCD2, start engine and let run to warm up then shut off, let sit 30 minutes them smooth-over CD2 with a throw away towel and remove any puddling, start engine again heat to operating temp again, let sit another 30 minutes. I don't drive the vehicle until all dry and set up, directions say othewise.