PROPER CARE

The exterior surface of an engine typically does not require any maintenance. However, if it becomes extremely dirty or greasy, the entire engine should be degreased. A clean engine operates more efficiently than a dirty one; it also permits small problems to be discovered sooner.

Degreasing an Engine

*EASY*

To degrease an engine, follow these steps:

1. Park the vehicle on level ground with the engine OFF, the parking brake engaged, and the transmission in PARK (for automatic) or REVERSE (for manual). Be careful of location selected since degreaser can stain driveways or kill vegetation. Try to use a biodegradable degreaser.
2. Avoid water damage to critical components by covering the air cleaner intake, computer control, distributor and alternator with plastic. Be sure these parts are not hot from recent engine use or the plastic may melt to them. If they are hot, postpone the covering and degreasing activity until they are cool. Tape the plastic tight so it does not leak.
3. Apply the degreaser as instructed by the directions on the degreaser container. Most are simply sprayed on as a foam.
4. While the degreaser is soaking throughout the engine's surface, scrape away any excessive grease buildup with a putty knife. Apply additional degreaser to these areas to aid in grease removal.
5. Completely rinse the engine with water from a garden hose but avoid splashing dirty runoff on the car's paint. Degreaser will harm the finish and paint underneath.
6. After the water has substantially drained or dried from engine, remove all plastic covers. Inspect the ignition wires to make sure they are dry and firmly connected.
7. Lubricate the transmission shift linkage since some degreaser may have been washed down the side of the transmission.
8. Start the engine and drive the car. This will warm-up the engine and dry off any remaining water.

Checking for Air Leaks

*EASY*

It may be necessary to check for air leaks into your engine after degreasing it. Periodically inspect the intake manifold gasket or carburetor flange gasket for these leaks. Small leaks may permit the engine to ingest dirt, thereby ruining it. An air leak may exist if you hear a hissing noise coming from your engine or it behaves differently.

Small leaks can be detected by squirting the suspected area with a small amount of light aerosol oil while the engine is running. If the engine speed momentarily increases, it means the flammable aerosol entered the engine through the leak. The leak should be immediately repaired by a professional automotive technician.

SYSTEMS
ENGINE WEAR
LONGEVITY TIPS
CORRECT OPERATION