Date:         Mon, 25 Nov 2002 18:04:01 EST
Reply-To:     Trvlr2001@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Carpenter <Trvlr2001@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Clean Engine and Engine Bay
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

   > Entity Steve Mozurkewich spoke thus:
>
> > What is the best way to clean the engine and the bay?
> DON'T use the high pressure wand, it will only go all over your interior.
> Put on dirty clothes and goggles, spray it with engine degreaser and use a
> brush and elbow grease. The more work it is the better the result will be.
>
Hi All,
Actually, I just sprayed mine.
I took a 10X12 plastic tarp, and tucked it behind the engine compartment,
with a few heavy items to hold it down.
Then around the rear cabinets, and
wrap the plastic around the sides of the bus,
and bungie over the top of the hatchback.
In other words nothing shows but the engine compartment.
Really, only takes 5 minutes:)
Use a good engine degreaser if you have it.
I usually use a strong industrial spray soap, or both.
I put it on a cold engine, them drive over to the
car wash. This lets it soak in while the engine is getting warm.
I don't advise spraying a hot engine.
I wrap the dist. (if you have one), the ECU, and I stay away from the
alternator.
I spray the **** out of everything! even the trans and the suspension.
About $5.00 worth of quarters:)
Water stays right where it is supposed to.
Then I drive the 1/2 mile home,
spray armoral all over the engine, and compartment.
Put on cotton gloves to protect my hands,
and start rubbing, with rags, while checking things out.
What you end up with is the shiniest darmm
engine you ever looked at.
A pleasure to work on, which means I`m more likely to work on it!
After the first initial through cleaning,
I wash it about every 6 months,
but I don't have to dam off the interior like this, after the first time.
The water just isn't that bad.
A little toweling of the deck is all that is needed.
John C.
SLC, UT (want to be in WA!)
85&91 Westys...
peace