Simple Green, a popular multi-purpose cleaner, has gained traction among car enthusiasts for its potential use in engine cleaning. While not explicitly designed for this purpose, many find it effective for degreasing and cleaning engine components. However, it's crucial to understand the proper techniques and precautions to avoid damaging your vehicle. This comprehensive guide explores the use of Simple Green for engine cleaning, addressing its benefits, drawbacks, and safety considerations.
Understanding Simple Green and its Properties
Simple Green is a biodegradable, phosphate-free cleaner known for its versatility. Its effectiveness stems from its powerful degreasing capabilities, which make it suitable for various cleaning tasks, including automotive applications. However, its relatively mild formulation compared to harsh engine degreasers means it might require more time and effort for thorough cleaning.
Benefits of Using Simple Green for Engine Cleaning
- Biodegradability: A key advantage is its environmentally friendly nature. Unlike many harsh engine degreasers, Simple Green is biodegradable, minimizing environmental impact.
- Versatility: Simple Green's multi-purpose nature makes it a convenient option if you already have it on hand for other cleaning tasks.
- Relatively Safe: Compared to harsh chemicals, Simple Green is generally considered safer for use around sensitive engine components, although precautions should still be taken.
Drawbacks and Considerations
- Longer Cleaning Time: Due to its milder formulation, Simple Green may require more scrubbing and soaking time compared to stronger degreasers. This translates to a longer overall cleaning process.
- Potential for Residue: Incomplete rinsing can leave behind a residue that may attract dirt and grime, negating the cleaning effort. Thorough rinsing is paramount.
- Not Suitable for All Applications: Simple Green may not be effective on extremely stubborn, baked-on grime. For heavily soiled engines, a stronger degreaser may be necessary.
- Electrical Components: Exercise extreme caution around electrical components. Avoid direct spraying and ensure complete drying before restarting the engine to prevent short circuits.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Engine with Simple Green
1. Preparation is Key:
- Protect Sensitive Areas: Cover sensitive electrical components like the alternator, distributor (if applicable), and air intake with plastic sheeting or bags secured with tape.
- Cool Engine: Ensure the engine is completely cool before starting the cleaning process. A hot engine can cause the Simple Green to evaporate too quickly, hindering its effectiveness.
- Gather Supplies: You'll need Simple Green, a spray bottle, various brushes (stiff and soft), rags, a garden hose or pressure washer (low-pressure setting recommended), and protective gear (gloves, eye protection).
2. Application:
- Dilute Simple Green: Mix Simple Green with water according to the product instructions. A typical ratio is 1:10 (Simple Green to water), but adjust based on the level of grime.
- Spray and Scrub: Liberally spray the diluted Simple Green solution onto the engine, focusing on heavily soiled areas. Use a stiff brush to scrub away loose dirt and grime. For delicate areas, opt for a soft brush.
- Let it Soak: Allow the solution to soak for 15-30 minutes, depending on the severity of the grime. This allows the Simple Green to penetrate and loosen the dirt.
3. Rinsing and Drying:
- Thorough Rinsing: Use a garden hose or low-pressure pressure washer to thoroughly rinse away all traces of Simple Green. Ensure that all crevices and components are rinsed clean. Pay special attention to areas near electrical components.
- Drying: Allow the engine to air dry completely before restarting. Use compressed air or rags to accelerate the drying process.
4. Final Inspection:
- Inspect for Residue: Once the engine is dry, inspect it closely for any remaining grime or Simple Green residue. If necessary, repeat the process, focusing on any missed areas.
Safety Precautions
- Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
- Protective Gear: Always wear gloves and eye protection to prevent skin and eye irritation.
- Avoid Direct Contact: Avoid direct contact with the Simple Green solution, as it can cause skin irritation.
- Disposal: Dispose of used Simple Green solution properly according to local regulations.
Conclusion
Simple Green can be a viable option for cleaning your engine, offering a relatively safe and environmentally friendly alternative to harsh degreasers. However, remember that thorough preparation, careful application, and meticulous rinsing are crucial for optimal results and to prevent potential damage to your vehicle. Always prioritize safety and remember that for extremely dirty engines, a more powerful degreaser might be necessary. This guide provides a comprehensive approach, but always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific cleaning recommendations.
