[CadillacLuke24]

Hey guys, Spring Break for this college student is almost here, which marks the typical first annual washing of my 96 Deville (!!). When I was talking with a friend, he suggested "steaming" the engine compartment. What he did was, with the enging running, sweep side to side ("tire to tire") across the engine bay for about ten seconds on high pressure rinse. Only difference is that he did this with a truck, so the engine was mounted longitudally, whereas mine is transverse. Would this trick still work? How do you guys suggest I approach it? Thanks for your help and hope the weather in your area is warming up (It sure needs to here!)

 

[skipcarver42]

I am not an expert on anything but I don't think that it is a good idea. Just my opinion.

 

[Ranger]

I've done it, but you need top be careful. You can't just flood these puppies like you used to. There is a lot of electronics under the hoods now a days. Keep the spray away from the PCM, ICM, EBTCM and the alternator.

 

[Submariner409]

Don't even think about it !!!

If you want to clean the engine and compartment, go at it with a spray bottle of diluted Mean Green, brushes and rags. It takes time and care, but the amount of wiring and connectors on and near the engine and the open ignition coils/wires in the 1996 definitely says "NO" to pressure washing or steam cleaning. ..........and remember - the starter motor is in the valley under the intake manifold, so, you get water down in there and you're in for a real surprise..........

 

[iametarq]

An engine, to me, is like the older Linux operating system, it doesn't need to look like eye candy to work great underneath.

I agree with the above comments.

 

[Ranger]

These work well too (if you have a compressor) and only apply a fine high pressure mist.

http://www.harborfreight.com/engine-cleaning-gun-97014.html

 

[CadillacLuke24]

Thanks guys! I really appreciate the input. I wasn't sure, like you guys mentioned, because of all the electronics. So glad I asked. Thanks (again ) submariner409, that sounds like a good idea. Not only if the weather would warm up...