14 replies to this topic

[ToM 2012]

Hi I have a little steam cleaner that I was thinking of using on the engine would it be ok to use with electrics still connected or is there a better way? Thanks Tom

[Steve220]

Degreaser first. You need a detergent to break down oil and grime really. Steam cleaner will only get rid of built up crud, usually just pushes around oil/grease rather then remove it.

[RHDmini74]

That would be good on a bare block before a rebuild or something. But I would try a degreaser. Need to do mine too. Its filthy lol

[ToM 2012]

Best degreaser to use? Ile get some

[ToM 2012]

This ok

[GraemeC]

Gunk is pretty good, but it does stink!
For convenience I prefer the aerosol one for doing engine's 'in situ' but obviously it is more expensive.

[Steve220]

Just make sure you don't get any down the dipstick hole. I've used gunk before to great effect.

[ToM 2012]

Just brought some from car spares will give it a try cheers

[dklawson]

I didn't know Gunk was available in the U.K.

 

Gunk is basically Kerosene mixed with a detergent.  If you don't want to buy it, make it.  Combine Kerosene (mineral spirits, turpentine, or diesel) with an equal amount of liquid laundry detergent.  Stir together until the liquids mix and become uniformly cloudy.  Scrape all the thick grease off the engine using screwdrivers, putty knives, etc.  Then use a stiff brush to work your homemade gunk into tall the nooks and crannies on the engine.  Rinse with water and repeat.

 

Regardless of using this method and/or the steam cleaner, place protective bags over the distributor and ignition leads.  Avoid spraying electrical components directly.  Incidental splashing is typically OK.

[Ivor Badger]

I didn't know Gunk was available in the U.K.

Well only since the 1950s. I prefer Jizer as it leaves less of a film.

[gazza82]

+1 for Jizer .. I bought 5ltr can for about £24

[ukcooper]

Tip get your engine hot before you steam clean it, helps to dry the thing out after.

[Cooperman]

Jizer is what I use.

[ToM 2012]

Thanks peeps will get cleaning in the week what would you suggest doing it on a Tarmac drive? Put a plastic sheet underneath?

[ukcooper]

plastic sheet underneath?    Card board on top of plastic and get a bottle of drive cleaner as you can do that at the same time :)