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Steam clean engine?

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Old May 15, 2006 | 11:37 PM
  #1  
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Default Steam clean engine?

I searched this forum but nothing informative came back. I was at an autodetail shop wanting to get the engine compartment steamcleaned, but the guy kept saying for these Lexus there is alot of electronics and there is possibility something could go wrong. Anyways I skipped it for now.

I think I might just do a DIY using an engine degreaser and a light water spray. I figure rain gets in there so what's the harm?

My question is has anyone had something malfunction after an engine steam cleaned?
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Old May 16, 2006 | 12:10 AM
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I used to take my pressure washer to the engine bay all the time on my previous car (99' camry). My sister has that car now and it has 85k miles and no problems so far. I'm much more careful with my GS...I just wipe everything down with a microfiber towel and a bottle of soapy water.
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Old May 16, 2006 | 12:12 AM
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There was a thread about this not too long ago about water getting where it wasnt supposed to be. I wouldnt take the chance personally.
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Old May 16, 2006 | 03:41 AM
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Yes I remember reading about the steam getting into some of the electronics and causing some damage. Not sure if it was this forum or not but remember the damage ended up being quite extensive.
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Old May 16, 2006 | 05:43 AM
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Well i used to clean my mustang with a degreaser and light water pressure.. Just make sure you cover up the alternator and spark plugs.. and other area where water may get in.. I haven't cleaned mine since the dealer did it a year ago.. and it still looks good..

I also used that steam in a can for the engine that worked ok.. I think it was a kit.. no water involved. Maybe that would work.. Good Luck..

TOny
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Old May 16, 2006 | 06:59 AM
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Electrical problems on these cars are no fun! I would stay away from any steam or major water sprays. As others have suggested, use a small bottle of spray and stay away from major connectors. Good Luck,

Jonny
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Old May 16, 2006 | 07:48 AM
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A big no no to do steam cleaning. Just use elbow grease, i do.
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Old May 16, 2006 | 09:28 AM
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i've washed my engine bay with water.. i just let the hose run over it for like a good 5 minutes and then wiped everything down.. no problems what so ever..
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Old May 16, 2006 | 09:37 AM
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Originally Posted by tranft
I searched this forum but nothing informative came back. I was at an autodetail shop wanting to get the engine compartment steamcleaned, but the guy kept saying for these Lexus there is alot of electronics and there is possibility something could go wrong. Anyways I skipped it for now.

I think I might just do a DIY using an engine degreaser and a light water spray. I figure rain gets in there so what's the harm?

My question is has anyone had something malfunction after an engine steam cleaned?
do a search for detailing threads either responded to by or started by "Guitarman". he is the guru of detailing around here.

edit - matter of fact, look here:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...ht=steam+clean

Last edited by ebruce2; May 16, 2006 at 09:40 AM.
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Old May 16, 2006 | 09:46 PM
  #10  
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Thanks everyone, this forum is so helpful. I really appreciate your repsonses! I will definitely stay away from steam cleaning, and will do the old fashinioned elbow grease method.
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