Cody Casey
Foaming engine degreasers are used to clean the underside of the hood, engine bays, and transmission pans. While some people believe that cleaning the engine will help it run cooler, others disagree and believe that the risk is greater than the reward. There are also concerns about the introduction of chemical degreasers into the oil, damage to electrical parts, and the deterioration of gaskets and other non-metal parts. Nevertheless, foaming engine degreasers are widely used, and some products such as Gunk Heavy Duty Citrus Degreaser, Simple Green HD, and Fast Orange are recommended for their effectiveness and safety. It is important to note that users should cover sensitive areas and avoid using high-pressure water to prevent damage to the engine.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Foaming engine degreasers are not as effective as liquid engine degreasers. |
| Ease of use | Foaming engine degreasers are easier to see, which ensures better coverage. |
| Use cases | Foaming engine degreasers are better for cold engines, while liquid engine degreasers are better for warm engines. |
| Safety | Foaming engine degreasers may introduce chemicals into the oil and damage electrical parts and non-metal components. |
| Alternatives | Brake cleaner, acetone, gasoline, rubbing alcohol, diesel, clothes detergent, Simple Green, Purple Power, Gunk, and pressure washing are all alternatives to foaming engine degreasers. |
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What You'll Learn
Foaming degreaser may leave residue
While foaming degreasers are effective at removing dirt, grease, oil and other soils from surfaces, some users have reported that they may not be suitable for use on transmission pans as they can leave residue.
One user on Reddit reported that they had to unbolt the pan and take out the filter, and they were advised to spray brake cleaner on the exposed part of the transmission under the filter/pan. They were warned against using anything but brake cleaner or acetone, as other substances could be too caustic.
Another user on the same thread reported that they had used an engine degreaser with poor results, as it did not clean off most of the dirt. They recommended using non-foaming degreasers like Gunk, Castrol Super Clean, and CRC Brakleen.
A third user on a different forum also recommended Gunk, specifically the Heavy Duty Citrus Degreaser, which they found worked well on the underside of the hood. They also recommended covering the alt and air intake before using the product.
A fourth user on the same forum also recommended Gunk, but warned against pressure washing. They suggested rinsing with a hose after letting the product soak for about five minutes, and then using compressed air to dry everything.
While foaming degreasers may be effective for some applications, it is important to consider the specific surface being cleaned and choose a product that is suitable for that surface to avoid any potential residue or damage.
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Degreaser may not work on heavy grease
Foaming engine degreasers are used to clean up greasy engines and machinery. They are available in the form of sprays, concentrates, and aerosol cans. However, they may not be suitable for all types of grease and grime. While foaming degreasers are effective on cold engines, they may not work as well on warm engines with heavy grease buildup.
Some foaming degreasers may not be as effective in removing stubborn, baked-on, or caked-on grease. They may struggle to clear thick, sticky layers of grease and might leave residue behind. In such cases, a stronger, more abrasive, or concentrated degreaser may be required. Additionally, some foaming degreasers may not be suitable for delicate materials like soft metals, painted surfaces, or vinyl.
For heavy grease, a gel degreaser is recommended. Gels are designed to stay on vertical surfaces and can be used on warm engines for better results. It is important to let the gel soak before wiping or rinsing it off. A high-quality, heavy-duty degreaser will cut through grease and grime with ease, leaving surfaces clean.
It is worth noting that some degreasers can be corrosive and damaging to certain materials. It is always recommended to check the product label for safety information and follow instructions for dilution and application. Test the degreaser on a small area first to ensure it does not cause any damage. Additionally, it is important to consider ventilation when using degreasers to prevent potential respiratory issues from fumes.
To effectively remove heavy grease, a combination of methods may be necessary. For example, using a degreaser followed by a power washer or a pressure washer can provide better results. Additionally, brake cleaner is specifically recommended for cleaning transmission pans and valve bodies.
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Degreaser may damage electrical parts
Engine degreasers are intended to remove oil, grease, oxides and handling contamination from equipment. However, it is important to be cautious when using them, as they can damage electrical parts. Before using any degreaser, it is recommended to cover electrical parts and wrap sensitive pieces.
Some degreasers, such as Gunk Heavy Duty Citrus Degreaser, are known to work well in cleaning the engine bays. However, it is important to note that the petroleum distillates in Gunk can be harmful to rubber components, drying them out. Additionally, the use of degreasers may introduce chemicals into the oil, potentially damaging electrical parts.
To avoid potential damage to electrical components, it is recommended to use a degreaser with a high dielectric strength, which is the maximum electric field that the material can withstand before its insulating properties break down. A degreaser with a dielectric strength above 30 kV (30,000 volts) is suggested if disconnecting the power is not feasible. Non-flammable cleaners are also recommended for added safety in case of sparks.
It is crucial to be cautious when working with highly alkaline cleaners, such as Castrol SuperClean and Simple Green, on hot or very warm aluminum parts, as they can cause staining. Diluting these cleaners and using them on a cold or slightly warm engine, followed by a rinse before drying, is advised.
Overall, while engine degreasers can be effective in cleaning, it is important to take precautions to avoid potential damage to electrical parts. Following instructions, using appropriate cleaners, and covering or disconnecting electrical components are essential steps to minimize the risk of damage.
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Degreaser may deteriorate gaskets
While foaming engine degreasers are great for cleaning, they may not be the best option for transmission pans. This is because the harsh chemicals in the degreaser can deteriorate gaskets and other non-metal parts. Gaskets are designed to be durable, but they are susceptible to deterioration over time due to mechanical and chemical extremes. Mechanical causes of gasket failure include friction, while chemical causes include oxygen, ozone, light, heat, humidity, oils, water, solvents, acids, and vapors.
One way to mitigate the risk of gasket deterioration is to properly install the gasket and be mindful of the environmental conditions around it. However, there is still a possibility that the degreaser may damage the gasket. To avoid this, some people recommend using a non-foaming degreaser, such as Gunk, or a diluted degreaser like Simple Green, which is safer, cheaper, and better for the environment. Another option is to use a product like WD40, which is inexpensive, easy to apply, and won't harm gaskets or electronics.
If you do choose to use a foaming engine degreaser on your transmission pan, it is important to take precautions to minimize the risk of gasket deterioration. Make sure to cover any areas where water could enter critical systems, as water can damage electrical parts. Additionally, avoid using high-pressure water, as this could force water into areas where it shouldn't go. Instead, use a low-pressure sprayer and rinse well.
Overall, while foaming engine degreasers can be effective cleaners, they may not be the best choice for transmission pans due to the risk of gasket deterioration. It is important to consider the potential risks and take the necessary precautions to avoid damage to your vehicle.
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Degreaser may damage cylinder heads
Engine degreaser can be used to clean a cylinder head without removing it from the engine. However, it is important to exercise caution when using degreaser on cylinder heads, especially those made of aluminium alloy, as improper use may result in damage.
Cylinder heads are a crucial component of an engine, and their performance can be hindered by accumulated grime and deposits over time. Cleaning the cylinder head can help restore engine performance and fuel efficiency while reducing excessive exhaust smoke.
When using an engine degreaser on a cylinder head, it is important to follow the recommended procedure. First, ensure the engine is turned off and cooled down, and disconnect the battery. Next, apply the engine degreaser directly to the dirty areas of the cylinder head. Allow the degreaser to soak for a few minutes, then use a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush to gently scrub the surface, being cautious not to damage any sensitive components. Finally, wipe away the dissolved dirt and residue with a clean lint-free cloth or shop towels, and repeat the process as needed until the cylinder head is visibly clean.
However, it is important to note that some sources advise against using foaming engine degreasers, as they may not effectively remove heavy grease and grime. Instead, a non-foaming degreaser or a gel formula may be more suitable for heavily soiled areas. Additionally, when using any type of degreaser, it is crucial to thoroughly rinse and dry the cylinder head after cleaning to prevent residual degreaser from causing damage to electrical parts or non-metal components.
In summary, while engine degreaser can be used to clean cylinder heads, it is important to select an appropriate formula, follow the recommended application procedure, and thoroughly rinse and dry the cylinder head to avoid potential damage.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not advisable to use foaming engine degreaser on the transmission pan. It is recommended to use brake cleaner or acetone instead.
The foaming engine degreaser is supposed to be easier to see, ensuring better coverage. It is also said to lift dirt and junk off the surface and suspend it. It works better on a cold engine than the regular liquid degreaser.
Some alternatives to foaming engine degreasers are:
- Gunk (non-foaming)
- Simple Green
- Purple Power
- Shout laundry stain remover
- Diesel
- Clothes detergent
- Fast Orange
