Pressure wash engine bay?

[Bluefish7]

Looking for advice on anyone that has done a light pressure washer to the front of the engine or further. Too many electronics? What would need to be covered up first, assuming I am doing just a decent spray not trying to strip paint. Thanks

[Clavurion]

I've washed M57 many times. First remove engine cover and put some plastic to cover the alternator. Spray degreaser (on cover separately) and let soak. If possible use some brush on surfaces. Pressure wash (preferably with warm water) from some distance avoiding long term spray on electrics. Remove plastic you installed to cover alternator. Start engine to warm it up. Use compressed air to dry excess water. Install the engine cover on the next day so the top of the engine (and bottom side of the cover) can first properly dry out.

[Bluefish7]

Originally Posted by Clavurion

I've washed M57 many times. First remove engine cover and put some plastic to cover the alternator. Spray degreaser (on cover separately) and let soak. If possible use some brush on surfaces. Pressure wash (preferably with warm water) from some distance avoiding long term spray on electrics. Remove plastic you installed to cover alternator. Start engine to warm it up. Use compressed air to dry excess water. Install the engine cover on the next day so the top of the engine (and bottom side of the cover) can first properly dry out.

Ever use Simple Green? I recall a detail shop using that when they sprayed my 1995 Rodeo but those are simpler engines just cover dist cap

[Clavurion]

Originally Posted by Bluefish7

Ever use Simple Green? I recall a detail shop using that when they sprayed my 1995 Rodeo but those are simpler engines just cover dist cap

Never heard. Seams to be some local brand. I've used stuff like Bilt Hamber Surfex HD. Preferably applied with foam lance.

[getty150]

Just watched a video where they listed several horrors in Washing the bmw engine scared me but make sure you cover connectors, alternator and ebox!

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[josiahg52]

Do it all the time,

- warm engine, not hot
- cover alternator (and air intake if. exposed)
- use wide angle pressure washer nozzle
- stay about two feet away
- wet engine
- I use P21S or Griot's engine cleaner (it must stay wet)
- using a water spray bottle and stiff detail brush, work extra dirty areas
- rinse thoroughly
- spray radiators, intercooler, etc. back to front
- drive