I am Currently Trying to Locate Oil Leaks on my New 88 V6 4Runner. I was Wondering What would be the Best way to Thoroughly Clean/Degrease the Engine so I can Locate Leaks. I was Thinking about using Oven Cleaner on the Axle, Skid Plate Etc, Places where there are no Wiring Harness or Plastic and regular Degreaser on Everything Else Followed up with a good hard Powerwashing. Is it Best to Leave the Engine Running While Cleaning? What do you guys Think about oven Cleaner? It is a VISCIOUS Cleaner. But, I am Sure it is'nt Good For Some Metals/Plastic.

Thanks in Advance

Dax

 

i used foamy engine bright worked really good or you could get it steamed cleaned

 

i wouldnt use it near aluminum, like the head and timing cover or anywhere for that matter

 

just pick up the oil dye from Napa (think it was ~$3-5) for a 1 oz. bottle. Then pick up the dye flash lite & glasses @ AutoZone (basically a blue led mag lite & yellow tint safety glasses. I used a new bottle of oil for the dye & only poured 1/2 the bottle in, so I could use the rest for a later time.

Once you've fixed the problem, use simple green & a power washer to degrease - but be careful when spraying - stay away from electrical parts. Jsut use some common sense here...

I used the dye to find a cam seal leak on my 3.0L last year. Made my life a whole lot easier finding the leak.

Good luck!

 

Thanks Alot Guys, I really appreciate your Help. I ended up Going With Oven Cleaner for the Front Axle/Skid Plate Etc. I Did'nt use it on The Upper End at All. Gunk Would Not go near the Mess I had under the Truck. The oven Cleaner Turned the Oil/Grease into a Gel and it All Came Right Off. I hope the Front Diff Was'nt Painted because it is now Silver Now to Find this Leak. I Think it might be Coming from the Power Steering Pump??? I hope So!!!!

 

I like to use S-100 or Purple Power. I use it on my dirt bikes too and it works awesome for lifting the chain grime.