engine cleaning

[mginty]

I picked my van back from the paint shop where it had been for a couple of weeks. When I fired it up it sounded really off and 'thick' with not much power. It took a little time but it did warm up and drive ok. When I got it home I ran it for a bit and also ran it the next day. Loads of black soot has come out of the exhaust (which was painted - don't know with what but I'm sure they must know what they're doing ?! Right??)
Any ideas what this is? The oil was last changed just over a year ago and I need to check it ...
Also, my engine is pretty cruddy and I'd like to clean it up but can't take the engine out. I had the JK catalogue thru the other day and it's got a load of cleaning products in like Gunk engine degreaseant and carb cleaner.
Is this worth doing with the engine still in?
thanks

 

[jonnyvolks73]

The oil was last changed just over a year ago and I need to check it

:shock:

sounds like it needs a good service before cleaning it , best to change the oil at least every 3 months i would say as it keeps the engine cool as well as lubricating..

As far as engine cleaning goes , can be done with degreaser (gunk) a paintbrush and crap loads of paper towel . messy job tho !

 

[streetboy]

If you can try to get hold of some cleaning agent called 'truck wash' used by professional valeters. I pinched some from the valeter I used to work next door to. In its neat form it is very potent and can be applied to the thickest areas of oil build up and dilute with water for normal cleaning. Spray on and leave for 5 mins. I use a hand pump spray such as a used detox kitchen surface one. Make sure you put a plastic bag over the carb and seal and pressure wash off if you have one. Makes the whole job much easier best to dry out the dizzy cap and maybe the plugs and leads to make sure all water is chased out.
You can wash the exterior of the bus as well, again dilute it, apply with a sponge as normal and pressure wash off. It removes all road tar and grime easily.
heres a link.....http://www.valeterspride.co.uk/concentrated-caustic-tfr--truck-wash-401-tfr-25-litre-valeting-products-158-p.asp" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

£43 for 25 litres but think, it'll do the job and you will be able to wash you bus/cars for ever! :lol:
Or you could take to a valeters and let them do the jod with a steam cleaner on a low pressure. Hope this helps.

 

[mginty]

thanks for the tips guys.
I have only done 30 miles since the last oil change so shouldn't be that bad should it?