## What Do Car Dealers Use to Clean Engines?
As a car owner, you may have wondered what professional car dealers use to clean engines. After all, a clean engine is essential for optimal performance and longevity. In this article, we will discuss the various methods and products employed by car dealers to achieve pristine engine cleanliness.
Chemical Engine Cleaners
Chemical engine cleaners are highly effective solutions specifically designed to remove grease, grime, and other contaminants from engine components. These cleaners are typically formulated with powerful degreasers and solvents that break down and dissolve dirt and oil buildup.
Car dealers often use concentrated chemical cleaners that require dilution before use. The diluted solution is then applied to the engine surface using a spray bottle or a brush. The cleaner is allowed to dwell for a few minutes, allowing it to penetrate and dissolve the dirt. After the dwell time, the engine is rinsed with water to remove the cleaner and dissolved contaminants.
Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning is another commonly used method for cleaning engines. It involves using a steam cleaner to generate high-pressure steam that is directed onto the engine surface. The steam penetrates deep into the crevices and removes dirt, grease, and oil.
Steam cleaning is particularly effective for removing caked-on dirt and grime that may be difficult to remove with chemical cleaners. It is also a more environmentally friendly option as it does not require the use of harsh chemicals.
Degreasing Agents
Degreasing agents are specialized cleaning solutions formulated to dissolve and remove grease and oil from various surfaces, including engine components. These agents are typically applied directly to the greasy areas using a spray bottle or a brush.
Degreasing agents work by breaking down the grease and oil molecules, allowing them to be easily wiped or rinsed away. They are particularly effective for removing heavy grease buildup on engine parts such as the oil pan, valve covers, and intake manifold.
Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is a powerful method of cleaning that uses a high-pressure stream of water to remove dirt and contaminants from engine surfaces. Pressure washers can generate pressures ranging from 1,500 to 4,000 pounds per square inch (psi), which allows them to blast away even stubborn dirt and grime.
Car dealers often use pressure washers to clean engines that are particularly dirty or have accumulated a lot of mud, road salt, or other contaminants. However, it is important to use caution when pressure washing an engine as the high-pressure water can damage electrical components or loosen hoses and connections.
Ultrasonic Cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaning is a specialized cleaning method that uses high-frequency sound waves to create cavitation bubbles in a cleaning solution. These cavitation bubbles collapse with tremendous force, generating shock waves that dislodge and remove dirt, grease, and other contaminants from the surface of the engine components.
Ultrasonic cleaning is particularly effective for cleaning intricate engine parts with complex geometries, such as fuel injectors, throttle bodies, and intake valves. It is also a gentle cleaning method that does not damage delicate components.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are two common household items that can be used to clean an engine. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that helps to remove dirt and grime, while vinegar is a mild acid that helps to dissolve grease and oil buildup.
To clean an engine with baking soda and vinegar, create a paste by mixing equal parts of baking soda and vinegar. Apply the paste to the engine surface and allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes. Rinse the engine thoroughly with water to remove the paste and any loosened contaminants.
Detailing Brushes
Detailing brushes are specialized brushes that are designed to clean the intricate nooks and crannies of an engine. These brushes come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different areas of the engine.
Detailing brushes can be used with chemical cleaners, degreasers, or even just water to remove dirt and grime from hard-to-reach areas. They are particularly effective for cleaning around spark plugs, sensors, and other small engine components.
Conclusion
Car dealers use a variety of methods and products to clean engines, including chemical cleaners, steam cleaning, degreasing agents, pressure washing, ultrasonic cleaning, baking soda and vinegar, and detailing brushes. The choice of method depends on the level of dirt and grime accumulation on the engine and the preferences of the individual dealer.
By using the appropriate cleaning methods and products, car dealers can ensure that engines are operating at peak performance and longevity. As a car owner, you can also use these methods to keep your own engine clean and in good condition.
