Power Washing the engine...

[cafepenguin]

So I have my engine apart, and I'm thinking about taking the cases and the cylinder head to the local do it yourself car wash and power washing them to get most of the dirt and grime off.. Is there any reason this would be a bad idea? Is there something I'm not thinking of that could be damaging to the parts if I do this?

Thanks

 

[SONICJK]

Youll be fine,
But in my experience that doesnt do much (yes ive done it)
Bring a bunch of simple green and a scrub brush if you want to remove anything oily.

 

[cafepenguin]

Hey Sonic

Thank... Yeah, I was planning on bringing some Simple Green as well as some Engine De-greaser that I have... I am building the bike in front of my car in my garage, so I don't have access to a water hose or a yard, so that's the reason for going to the car wash to get rid of some of the build up mud and grime... but I will take the simple green to get some of the stuff loose and hit it with some scotch pads...

Just wanted to make sure there wasn't something I was missing that could do damage...

Thank you

 

[mydlyfkryzis]

Power washing an engine that is apart is o.k.

One that is assembled can be a problem. the high pressure can damage gaskets, force water into the crankcase, things like that.

Rinse well, as some soaps are a little corrosive if allow to sit on the aluminum.

 

[SONICJK]

The biggest issue you'll have is trying to figure out how to keep your parts from flying away when the high pressure water hits them haha

 

[cafepenguin]

Thanks mydly.... Yeah, I don't think I would have attempted this if the engine was in the frame... I had to pull the entire engine apart, because the pistons were frozen in and I am getting the cylinders bored this weekend... so figured I would get the rest of the motor cleaned and ready to go...

And yeah Sonic, I've thought about that... hahah... I am taking a rubbermaid container with me that I will place it in and spray it down in there I think

 

[AlphaDogChoppers]

I am taking a rubbermaid container with me that I will place it in and spray it down in there I think

Better wear a raincoat, 'cause you are gonna get fucking soaked!

 

[SONICJK]

Better wear a raincoat, 'cause you are gonna get fucking soaked!

At least its summer. I tried to do mine in Feb.
It was not fun.

 

[cafepenguin]

Ehhh... I can use a bath anyway... and yeah, it's a bit warm out today, so it might feel good...

 

[AlphaDogChoppers]

I have a gasoline powered pressure washer at my shop, and every time I use it, I end up being pretty wet.

 

[Bert Jan]

every time I use it, I end up being pretty wet.

That's what she said.
padam psss