Engine/Suspension Degreasers

Posted by BigKev On 2007/5/29 0:53:19

What do you guys recommend for engine degreasers?

The '54 has some pretty thick buildup (1/4" +) on the lower part of the engine, suspension, steering knuckles, control arms, crossmember etc. It looks like someone dipped the front of the car in a tar pit or something. I used some of that Gunk Foamy Brite stuff and it really didnt do that much, I swear I heard the grease laugh at me. I seams to break off in clumps. Almost like its a mix of grease, tar, and road dirt. Brake cleaner seams to work the best, but it would take me 50 cans of the stuff to clean all of it.

I think the problem is that most of the engine degreasers are heat activated. But my engine is not in a running state as of yet.

I was thinking of using some oven cleaner. But that stuff is pretty harsh. So I am not sure how that stuff would react to the rubber bushings in the suspension.

Perhaps I should just rent a steam cleaner.


Anyway, if you guys have any good tips for degreasing the entire engine compartment please let me know. Just keep in mind that the car is stationary and non-running at this point. So driving it to the local wash-it-yourself is not an option.