The other day I opened the hood on my 2007 F-150 and seen that there's some dirt and road grim that had found its way to the engine... So pretty much it's filthy. Is there a way I can possibly wash the engine? Has anyone ever encountered this before? Thanks...

 

I know of a mechanic who steams the engine clean, so that they can look for where leaks are coming from.

 

Armor All wheel cleaner and low pressure water. Let the wheel cleaner sit for about 5 mins, and then hose it off. I drive it to blow all the water off, then put regular armor all on the valve covers, tb cover, etc.

 

I would look in the care and detailing forum. Those guys are a whole lot **** but they know what they are talking about. Buzz words will be SimpleGreen and Hyperdressing. Look for the Two "Rocks".
Avoid steam!

 

I've heard 2 different methods:

1.) Cover any important electrical components (plugs, alternator, air filter, ect.) with plastic bags.

2.) Use low pressure water near important components with engine running.

Personally I'd use the first one... I've never done it though, but I plan on doing it once it warms up a big.

 

Thanks for the tips, I tried the armorall and it looks a lot better then what it had before. I'm sure with a couple more cleanings it will look as good as new. Thanks again!

 

ahh, i journey outside the OCD forum for once. I did this the other day, so i will give you a few tips. Cover important electrical stuff as mentioned. You do this before you wash. Use a degreaser such as simple green or meguiars safe d degreaser. Let it soak in for a few minutes. Get some Meguiars All Purpose cleaner and spray it and let it soak in again. Get some old shop rags and wipe around removing all the dirt and grim and gunk. Repeat as needed until completely clean. Then use Meguiars hyperdressing to make it nice and shiny. Hope this helps.