Author Topic: cleaning engine (Read 3145 times)

manuel · « **on:** April 11, 2007, 08:37:24 AM »

Hi I have recently acquired a 1990 318IS, am very happy with it, the exterior is in perfect condition, however when looking under the hood, everything is absolutely filthy, any advice as to how to clean it. I do not want to shortcircuit anything. Any suggestions are welcome.

Alpine003 · « **Reply #1 on:** April 11, 2007, 12:00:07 PM »

Use a quality degreaser. Make sure you cover the Ignition coils, alternator, and check that your plug boots are snug. Most of the electrical connectors have weather proof seals on them so no worries there. Also, make sure all your grommets/drains going to your firewall are in good shape and not cracking. You might want to disconnect your battery as well. Obviously you'll want to do it while the engine is cool. I might be missing something but that's all I can think of for the moment.

Bunta · « **Reply #2 on:** April 12, 2007, 01:01:02 PM »

Engine cleaning is a weird topic, so many things can go wrong and many people do it differently.
I like to start the car(cold start, not after driving all day) spary the area down with water then degreaser, use brushes and what-not to clean things up, then hose back off(carefully). Spray dressing or WD-40(yes it does make your engine bay plastics look nice) wipe off excess. I never use dresssing because I dont like the way it looks but its your preference.
Ive been using this method for years and has worked fine. Just be careful, dont directly hose on the common problem areas and you should be fine.
(Not responsible for things that could go wrong:D )

Hunter

e9nine · « **Reply #3 on:** April 12, 2007, 01:34:22 PM »

There's many ways to do this. Try doing a generic search on the net.
Here's some help to get you started:
http://www.bmwworld.com/repairs/detailing/engine.htm

manuel · « **Reply #4 on:** April 13, 2007, 03:00:01 AM »

Thanks guys, I will do as you said. I�ll be carefull with the "should not get water" parts

christophbmw · « **Reply #5 on:** April 14, 2007, 12:51:48 PM »

if there is oil to be cleaned off warm up the car, to soften up the oil and then clean it, but dont get the car hot.....just warm.

ak96ss · « **Reply #6 on:** April 14, 2007, 01:28:36 PM »

I just soaked everything under the hood with Simple Green, let it sit a while, then started in with a brush and hose. Simple Green is an effective degreaser and, although it doesn't taste good, it is non-toxic and biodegradable.

Granted, the oil/grease/whatever you rinse off is not going to be something I would eat, but at least your solvent won't be adding to the rest of the toxic goo.

A toothbrush is actually very effective.