Engine Bay Wash

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Ranjel

Hi all,

How are you all washing your engine after you have been out on trails + mud? Is it safe to just power wash it?

I would “assume “ it’s fine .
Maybe it’s the terminology “power wash ?”
I never power wash an engine compartment.
I have washed them with a somewhat gentler nozzle.
I have no doubt there’s an argument coming from others .
“It’s Just My Opinion “

The owners manual for my Sport have a page about washing the engine, I would imagine the Bronco would too

ChuckO

The owners manual for my Sport have a page about washing the engine, I would imagine the Bronco would too

Good Point, haven't looked, but will see what it says.

I've power washed the engine in my Subaru Crosstrek and had no problems thereafter. Just rinsed it down, used a soft brush to loosen up some stubborn dirt and then hosed it off. Naturally, I tried as best as I could to limit the amount of water needed to do the job, and tried to avoid dousing the wiring harness completely. You should enjoy similar success. Good luck!

Before & After:

Here is Ford's recommendation from the owners manual...

When washing the engine compartment: • Never wash or rinse the engine while it is hot or running. • Never wash or rinse any ignition coil, spark plug wire or spark plug well. • Cover the battery, power distribution box, and air filter assembly to prevent water damage. Note: If your vehicle has an engine cover remove the cover before application of shampoo and degreaser. • Spray an approved engine shampoo and degreaser on all parts that require cleaning and rinse with water.

I would also suggest that you turn down the power on your pressure washer.

Otherwise, have fun...

One thing I would add is purchase a small hand blower to clear any debris or residual water after the wash and before any dressings you put on to finish. I use Chemical Guys products and you can find anything you want on line from them. They also have tons of how to videos on YouTube, including how to safely clean your engine bay. Not an advertisement, just the products I use. There are many different vendors who all sell great product out there.

the poacher

Here is Ford's recommendation from the owners manual...

When washing the engine compartment: • Never wash or rinse the engine while it is hot or running. • Never wash or rinse any ignition coil, spark plug wire or spark plug well. • Cover the battery, power distribution box, and air filter assembly to prevent water damage. Note: If your vehicle has an engine cover remove the cover before application of shampoo and degreaser. • Spray an approved engine shampoo and degreaser on all parts that require cleaning and rinse with water.

I would also suggest that you turn down the power on your pressure washer.

Otherwise, have fun...

All sound recommendations. I will point out that I had no ability to reduce the amount of pressure on the power wash nozzle. I used one of those public car washing stations that operate on quarters. Unfortunately, I cannot wash my car at home because there are no provisions for it in my apartment community. I did, however, use the power wash deliberately and intentionally, not randomly or recklessly. That's the key. Use good judgement as to where you direct water. Wiring, electronics and air inlets should be avoided as much as possible. In the end, you've just got to take your time and be as thorough as possible to get the job done. Under hood TLC is an essential part of vehicle maintenance, after all!