Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) engine cleaning

[rborn]

I've recently taken ownership of my first CTD (1998 1/2 3500 Ram)and am slowly learning all kinds of new stuff. I'm interested in cleaning the engine and engine compartment, but some of the quirks I've had to resolve concerning the electronics on this vehicle make me a bit nervous about using a power washer under the hood. I've cleaned engines before, albeit about thiry years ago. Are there any special precautions about cleaning under the hood on the Dodge?

 

[TomGolden]

First, welcome to the wonderful world of Cummins Power



The first suggestion I will make is ti be very careful what cleaner you use. Do not use something like Castrol SuperClean (I think that is it), since it is corrosive to aluminum. Most folks here recommend Simple Green.



1. Garden hose off the engine compartment.

2. Simple Green squirt bottle all over everything.

3. Let it soak for a few minutes

4. Repeat step 1.

5. Let everything drip dry for a bit, then fire her up.



I've done this a few times so far and have had no noticeable problems.



Tom

 

[Cliffman]

I use Simple Green and cover my AFE with a plastic bag. I then break out the pressure washer and let'er have it. I used to have problems with blowing some aftermarket relays I installed. Turned out to be a problem with the in-line fuse coming off the battery. Now I rap the fuses and the relays with plastic and no more problems

 

[y-knot]

I would not recommend anyone wash any engine with a power washer. These type washer have way to much pressure for a engine compartment. There are alot of electronics in there and it is not a very smart ideal. A hose is really all you need, and with that, you should avoid the obvious electrical components. . I have found that GUNK engine cleaner works wonders, just spray it on , let it sit for a few minutes, and hose off. You might need to repeat the process if it was real dirty. I just go over my engine with a couple rags and some wd-40, or cleaner. I clean it a couple time a year, and it to me is fun. I enjoy cleaning, maintenance, servicing my truck, it is relaxing. After 6 years the engine still looks brand new, and yes you could eat off of it, but that is just me. You might prefer a plate?

 

[Cliffman]

y-knot,



I'd say that depends on where your pointing the pressure washer and how much pressure you are using. I use my pressure washer all the time and haven't ruined anything yet. Using one of those mega pressure washer's that takes paint off isn't a good idea but one of the lower pressure one's are just fine. You just need to use some good ole common sense when using it, that's all.

 

[y-knot]

Unfortunately that seems to be in short supply now days, I chose to keep my comments on the safe side.