Simple Green, a popular multi-purpose cleaner, is often touted for its ability to clean engine components. However, using it effectively and safely requires understanding its strengths, limitations, and proper application techniques. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of using Simple Green for engine cleaning, addressing common questions and concerns.
Understanding Simple Green's Capabilities
Simple Green is a powerful degreaser, effective at removing grease, oil, grime, and other stubborn contaminants. Its biodegradable formula makes it a relatively environmentally friendly option compared to harsh chemical degreasers. This makes it attractive for cleaning engine components, particularly in areas where environmental concerns are paramount. However, it's crucial to understand that Simple Green is not a replacement for specialized engine cleaners designed for specific tasks like carbon buildup removal.
What Simple Green Can Clean on Your Engine
Simple Green excels at cleaning external engine components. This includes:
- Exterior surfaces: Removing dirt, road grime, and light oil splatters from the engine block, valve covers, and other external parts.
- Plastic and rubber components: Simple Green is generally safe for many plastics and rubbers commonly found in engine bays, though it's always recommended to test it on an inconspicuous area first.
- Metal parts: It can effectively remove grease and oil from metal components, improving their appearance and potentially preventing corrosion.
What Simple Green Cannot Clean on Your Engine
While effective for many cleaning tasks, Simple Green has limitations:
- Heavy carbon buildup: Simple Green isn't formulated to dissolve heavy carbon deposits on internal engine components or within combustion chambers. Specialized engine decarbonizers are needed for this.
- Deeply embedded grime: For extremely stubborn, baked-on grime, you might need a more aggressive cleaner.
- Sensitive electronics: Avoid direct contact with sensitive electrical components. Always use caution and protect any electrical connections from spray or runoff.
How to Use Simple Green for Engine Cleaning
Safety First: Always work in a well-ventilated area. Wear gloves and eye protection to prevent skin and eye irritation.
Preparation:
- Cool Down: Allow the engine to cool completely before starting any cleaning process. A hot engine can cause the Simple Green to evaporate too quickly, reducing its effectiveness.
- Protect Sensitive Areas: Cover any sensitive electrical components, air intakes, and other areas you don't want to get wet with plastic sheeting or towels.
- Pre-Cleaning (Optional): Use compressed air to remove loose dirt and debris before applying Simple Green.
Application:
- Dilution: Dilute Simple Green according to the manufacturer's instructions. The ratio will vary depending on the level of soiling. A stronger solution might be needed for heavily soiled areas.
- Application: Apply the diluted Simple Green liberally to the engine components you want to clean, using a spray bottle or a pressure washer (low pressure setting). Let it dwell for the recommended time (usually a few minutes).
- Scrubbing (Optional): For stubborn grime, use a brush or detailing brush to scrub the surfaces gently.
- Rinsing: Thoroughly rinse the engine components with clean water, ensuring that all traces of Simple Green are removed. Use a pressure washer (low pressure setting) for easier rinsing.
Post-Cleaning
After rinsing, allow the engine to air dry completely. Inspect your work and address any remaining dirt or grime. Consider applying a protectant to metal parts to prevent future corrosion.
Conclusion
Simple Green can be a valuable tool for maintaining the cleanliness of your engine's external components. However, it's crucial to understand its limitations and use it appropriately. Always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. For more serious cleaning needs or internal engine cleaning, consult a professional mechanic or utilize specialized cleaning products designed for those tasks.
