Clean Engine

**Heavyvette** · 01-22-2012, 06:36 PM

Has anyone cleaned/washed down their engine in a C5/6 Vette? If so, how did you do it and what did you use?

**GoldenFlame** · 01-23-2012, 02:42 PM

I haven't yet.. but a lot of people use diluted Simple Green and a hose. Don't use a pressure washer, and cover up and/or stay away from stuff like alternator and air filter...etc...

**2002ssslp** · 01-23-2012, 04:56 PM

I like using a pressure washer on a very low setting. The wand will allow you to pinpoint areas that are hard to reach.

**0rion** · 01-23-2012, 05:29 PM

Originally Posted by 2002ssslp

I like using a pressure washer on a very low setting. The wand will allow you to pinpoint areas that are hard to reach.

this method is asking for trouble......over the years I can't count the number of people who have had issues from washing these engines with a hose or pressure washer. Usually the first casualty are the knock sensors. These engines aren't like the old small blocks.....way more electronics on board than back then and even though they have water resistant plugs those plugs are at least 10 years old now.
I use a wet rag with diluted simple green and wipe everything down and a clean one to follow up. An old toothbrush will help get to the hard to reach places.

**Heavyvette** · 01-23-2012, 09:46 PM

Thanks Guys, my work is cut out for me as i see a lot of grit on the engine. I'm kinda leary about the water hose after what Orion said.

**0rion** · 01-24-2012, 04:12 AM

if you do use the hose ( and I advise against it) keep it at a trickle and only use it on the block itself and keep water off the top of the motor and away from the front/rear of the intake. The knock sensors are under the intake. Water will run under the intake and flood those sensors. That's where I've seen people have the most trouble.

**Heavyvette** · 01-24-2012, 04:41 PM

Originally Posted by 0rion

if you do use the hose ( and I advise against it) keep it at a trickle and only use it on the block itself and keep water off the top of the motor and away from the front/rear of the intake. The knock sensors are under the intake. Water will run under the intake and flood those sensors. That's where I've seen people have the most trouble.

Thank you, I'm going to use a soft brush, tooth brush and rags when I get a chance. I appreciate your help. I don't want to cause myself more work.