How Clean a Car Engine
A clean engine performs much better and cooler when it has been cleaned of any dirt and crud. Leaks and belts can be viewed much better so you can repair them right away. If you leave the engine dirty often, there is a chance that belts will wear out faster. You will also like the appearance of the engine when it is cleaned.
How to Clean a Car Engine
Materials Needed
- Wrench
- Baggies
- Twist ties
- Simple Green
- Paintbrush
- Garden hose
1. Turn on the engine and let the engine warm up. You want the engine warm so the grease and dirt can be cleaned much easier. Avoid getting the engine too hot because you can easily burn yourself.
2. Park the vehicle in an area so the chemicals or residue from the engine will not harm any plants or grass. The driveway is a perfect location.
3. Separate the terminals from the battery. Use a wrench to loosen the nut on the negative terminal. Remove the negative terminal. Loosen the nut on the positive terminal and remove it.
4. Use baggies with twist ties to cover all electrical components. You do not want water to get on those items because they can easily short out.
5. Spray the engine with Simple Green. It is a degreaser that will clean the engine safely. Allow it to work on the engine for five minutes. Go over the entire engine with a paintbrush to remove any buildup.
6. Turn on a garden hose and spray the engine. You can use high pressure but be careful around the components that are covered with the baggies and twist ties.
7. Leave the hood open and allow the engine to dry for several hours. Remove the baggies and twist ties once the engine is dry. Connect the battery terminals. Replace the negative and then the positive terminal using a wrench.