I'd like to start cleaning my 18 year old 22RE in my pickup. Can I just un-bolt the valve cover, power wash it, and bolt it back on? I don't know a lot about engines and I'm not sure what exactly is under there (besides the valves). Or whether or not it needs to be tightened to a certain torque. Should I do it? Can I do it? Thanks for any help.

 

I powerwashed mine at a local carwash with it on.

 

I'm assuming you're going to power wash the valve cover, and not the engine underneath, that probably wouldn't be good.
If you remove the valve cover you will want to replace the gasket to prevent future leaks. I don't know the exact torque value for it, but most valve covers are about 15-20 foot-pounds, ie not very much.
Another option is to wash it in place, try Simple Green and a good scrub brush, then rinse.

 

Could I power wash my entire engine as is? I've heard that engines don't run as well after a good power wash'n. Thanks for the replies.

 

I've heard horror stories of vehicles being ruined after a pressure wash under the hood. I wouldn't advise it. Go with the Simple Green and a little elbow grease. Much more rewarding.

 

Thanks again. I'm going to pick up some Simple Green and get cleaning.

 

I have an 89 with a supercharged 22RE and i due to the fact that i have alot of polished aluminum on it i have to constanly be pressure washing it.. as long as you dont have any part of the fuse block open to the air... you shouldnt have any problem. make sure to keep away from the horn for if too much water gets in there you could have some rust problems that could result in premature failure. good look with the engine cleaning.

rock on,
matt

 

I have been powerwashing my engines for over 15 years, just stay away from the distributor and air filter. If they were not meant to handle water why would you drive in the rain or ford a river in it?

Spray Simple Green all over the engine...let is sit for 5 mins, power wash off. Then spray the whole engine with tire cleaner/shine. You engine will look like new and it will withstand dirt and grime much better. People always comment on how new my engines look.

 

Sounds good, thanks for the replies. I guess Simple Green is the way to go.