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engine103 · 02-10-2018, 09:11 AM

Previous owner had the oil dip stick back out and oiled down the engine compartment on my Signature. Is there anything I should be cautious about or areas to avoid while steam cleaning? Thanks, Jim E. OKC

CountryB · 02-10-2018, 10:13 AM

Are you really talking about Steam Cleaning, or do you mean Pressure washing?

Steam cleaners are not the common unless your having a truck shop do the work - or have access to that equipment. I used to steam clean about every high mileage truck that came into the shop for oil leak repairs. There was nothing to worry and no damage was ever done. But that was before all the computer controlled electronics.

I would say just keep the steam or pressure off any electrical connectors and watch that you don't damage any wire insulation with high pressure or prolonged concentration of steam. Other than that I don't think you will have a problem.

If you're pressure washing, spray degreaser on the engine and let it sit, then use a wide (fan) pattern on the nozzle to keep the pressure within reason.

engine103 · 02-10-2018, 01:21 PM

Thanks Mike, If I did steam I would have a shop do it. I do have a very good pressure washer that I will probably end up using. I cant remember where I read it but there was a caution as to what not to hit with either steam of high pressure. Jim E. OKC

1doodadd · 02-10-2018, 01:31 PM

Take a plastic bag and cover the alternator and engine ECM. Be careful around any electrical connectors.

jimmy braden · 02-10-2018, 01:32 PM

There isn't prob a lot of electronics on a ISM, but it would still get ugly if they were directly hit with steam or even lots of pressure. I would try to get all you could with a std engine cleaning degreaser and then go from there. And I would dial back any pressure washer to 1000psi max.

Quote:

Originally Posted by CountryB

If you're pressure washing, spray degreaser on the engine and let it sit, then use a wide (fan) pattern on the nozzle to keep the pressure within reason.

yep
+1

clyon51 · 02-10-2018, 01:37 PM

I just did my 400 ISL. I just used a can of Engine Bright, let it sit for 10 mins and hosed off ...... worked liked a champ. I’ve been told to avoid the ECM and corresponding connections when pressure washing.

rlbow43 · 02-11-2018, 08:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by clyon51

I just did my 400 ISL. I just used a can of Engine Bright, let it sit for 10 mins and hosed off ...... worked liked a champ. I’ve been told to avoid the ECM and corresponding connections when pressure washing.

Another concern you might have doing this at home is the runoff going into the storm sewer - a no-no where I live. I made a "pan" for the runoff out of a wood frame and heavy sheet plastic. Kept the bad stuff contained so I could dispose of it properly.