I am sure I already know the answer to this but is it ok to wash my engine??? This is my first diesel but I would think you could treat it just like a gasser. Leave it running and use a pressure washer and engine degreaser just try and stay away from eletrical parts. Anything else to look out for or advice?

 

I wouldn't hesitate to wash my truck engine but my preferred cleaning technique is to use a high pressure air hose. After that, I spray armorall all over the engine compartment. Makes it easier to blow off the next time.

 

Do it when cold... you don't want to spray 80° water on a 600° turbo/manifold.

 

Only 600 degrees?... Rookie!...

 

Don't fret if you get a water in fuel light after cleaning the motor, common issue after washing it. After a few days it'll go away again.

 

Thanks for the advice. Just been down some dirt roads and trying to keep the engine looking better than a buddy's 02'!!! It looked like you could eat off it when I first bought it so I am trying to keep it up.

 

I've been pressure washing engines since I first worked at a place that had one (powered by dinosaurs on a treadmill ) and I've learned a couple of things.
1. Never wash Hot you'll crack things that shouldn't be cracked.
2. Try not to wash cool because it takes forever to dry if you get a little excited with the hose. A warm engine will also help move off any oil sludge buidup.
3. Don't wash cold...you'll freeze your butt off!
4. If you can find a steam genny your golden.
One unit I worked at had a live steam hose setup outside for cleaning and sterilizing stuff. 25lbs of steam will remove any grunge and not crack even hot manifolds plus the heat will help dry out any condensation in plugs and asst connections.

 

The first thing that I did to my old truck was pressure wash the drool, that I left, off the engine. Just make sure you follow everyone's advice on not quenching the exhaust manifold and turbo housing, unless you need a good excuse to upgrade.

 

I'm not sure I'd leave it running. Taking a 30 min drive afterward to get it hot and dry things off isn't a bad idea either.