How do I clean my engine compartment?

05-13-2002, 06:47 PM

How should I clean my engine, and the trunk area? I put too much oil in, and some blew out. Now the engine smokes after running. How should I clean the engine? Any kind of spray, and how many cans should I get?

emcon5 · emcon5's Garage

There is a tech article on the topic here:
http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/tom_sharpes/911_engine_comp1.htm

I would start with rags to clean the top, and Castrol Super degreaser on the bottom. You can get it at most auto parts places, it comes in a purple jug. Spray it on and let it sit, then hose it off. I would limit this to the underside though, hosing down the ignition and induction system is asking for trouble IMHO.

Your car sat for a long time before you bought it ,right? I think I remember you saying that. It would probably be a good idea to remove the fan and alternator and remove any debris that may have accumulated under the shroud, and verify that there isn't anything restricting airflow through the engine cooler.

Tom

05-13-2002, 07:12 PM

Thank you, I'll do this tomorrow, or look at what needs to be done. I got school so I'll have only 3 hours to look at it.

Chuck Moreland · 05-13-2002, 08:02 PM

I love the Castrol purple stuff. Use it all the time on the engine top and bottom. It solubolizes (I think that's a word) the oil.

Then I hit it with a pressure washer. I use a "low pressure" washer that puts out about 1000 psi. Much more and you start taking off paint. If you don't have one, go to one of those "do it to it" self car washes.

The pressure washer is one of my favorite tools. I use it on the engine and undercarriage all the time. It's great for cleaning parts.

TedSlick · TedSlick's Garage

Quote:

Originally posted by Chuck Moreland
I love the Castrol purple stuff. Use it all the time on the engine top and bottom.

The pressure washer is one of my favorite tools. I use it on the engine and undercarriage all the time. It's great for cleaning parts.

I didn't blow oil all over my engine, but I will be taking it out soon and cleaning it as much as possible. I'll try that Castrol stuff.

Side question: I was at a tools store today looking for a 17mm hex wrench (no luck), but I did see a "parts cleaner" for like $70 on sale. Seemed interesting...wonder if it would work well for my cleaning task. Anyone who uses one of these, can you respond with a description of how these things work and whether you think it might be worthwhile?