I have done a search on this, and have read mixed things about how to go about doing an engine compartment detailing. Mine as of now is not too bad, but I still have some lingering salt from this years winter.

I saw a post in the '04-'05 section from RockPick, and noted the VERY clean engine compartment with the AF1 intake. I am looking for the method that you used to clean the engine compartment. I was thinking of using some sort of degreaser (Simple Green, etc) on the engine, then hosing off with a lights low pressure shower spray. I know being fairly mechanically inclined that at low pressure NONE of the sensors should let water in as they are SUPPOSED to be sealed from water.

From what I have done before and gathered info from, the best way is to cover electrical components (Alternator, etc), wet lightly with water, spray with degreaser and let sit, then hose off with light low pressure spray. I have done this on an '01 F250 with no ill results, and also an '02 Mustang. I feel that this will be ok on the '04, but wondered how RP got his compartment so clean.

If ANYONE has any input on the method described, or just has a general input, please let me know. I got the rest of the truck clean, but want my engine compartment nice and clean also. Thanks in advance.

 

Your method is good, so if you want to make cleaning much easier next time,you need to coat evrything with a sealer protectant that will allow you to just hose off the dirt with out using degreasers. I use Formula 303 that is an ultavoilet protectant that is available from most Marine supply stores or boat yards. Dirt and grease just wash off and it helps to keep your engine clean. Try it on your dash vinyl and tires too.

 

I have always cleaned my engines with the "Tire & Engine Cleaner" setting at the local pressure wash. I leave the engine running, and use this setting to gently wash away any dirt or grime that has accumulated in the engine compartment. Then I switch to the "Pressure Rinse" setting and hose everything off, making sure not to aim a direct spray of water into any sensitive areas like the alternator, electrical boxes, etc.

This method has always worked well for me on a number of different vehicles. However, from reading this forum, it seems as if the 5.4L engine is especially sensitive to being sprayed with water (something about how the spark plugs & boots are positioned?) so if you have this engine, you might want to do some more investigating!

If I order a new F-150 this year (debating right now between the F-150 and the Mustang!) I would definitely get the 5.4L, so I have been thinking about how I might have to change my detailing habits with this engine....

 

I used to endorse the method you described because I'd used it for years. It worked right up until I tried it on my '02 (with the 4.6) late last year. As gently as I washed and rinsed the motor, I still ended up with all sorts of problems. It bucked, sputtered, kicked and threw codes like you wouldn't believe. Fortunately, it dried itself out and cured itself within 2 days. A trip to Advance Auto Parts cleared the codes too.

In the future, you won't find me spraying anything from a hose under my hood. I'm all done with pressure washers too. It was that bad. Yes, I'm sure any number of members still blast away and have no problems, but the odds appear to be against longer term success here.

 

Hi roboots21:

My method on this truck has been to not let it get out of hand and always wipe it down after every other wash or so... I have been utilizing a QD spray like Final Detail or Last Touch and a 'low-end' microfiber towel. Simply put, I've given very little effort to it and just maintained it...

Now, when it comes to detailing a compartment that is nasty; I've been in that boat too as I've done it for a customer or two (but, generally speaking, never do it unless it's a friend that I'm detailing for because of the horendous liability that goes along with such a detail)...

I typically go with a good all purpose cleaner like Meguiar's XTRA or Safe D-Greaser. Both products are very good at breaking up light grime and moderate grease...

Let me see if I can find a post for you that I've already typed out that is a good 'go-by'... stay tuned... let me do a search or two.

RP

 

SECOND POST

Again, I'm not responsible for anything that you do in your engine compartment. Anytime you go in there with any type of moisture, you run a risk of causing problems... FYI


RP

 

Great posts RP!

Including the tip on frequetly wiping down the engine compartement to minimize the need for "heavy" cleanings and the step by step procedure to do so if required.

Also a good disclamer. Cleaning a engine compartment improperly can create some expensive issues. That's why your first tip is so important... keep it clean!

 

I recently used a new product called black magic 2 in 1 engine cleaner and shine, i warm the engine for about 2 mins , then cover everything from the intake, the alternator, battery, the electrical connections on the firewall, and the black fuse box computor with small plastic bags. I then spray on let sit about 15 mins then hose off GENTLY then pull out the leaf blower and from a distance dry off as much as I can, then remove bage carefully ( they still contain water) start truck and drive, the new black magic stuff works good, even did my lawnmower with it but then again my mower is 15yrs old and gets fresh Mobil ! 10-30 every spring also