Here is the Process of Engine Hood and Car Engine Maintenance to Keep It Fit

JAKARTA, MARCH 2025, After a long period of use, it is undeniable that the performance and appearance of Daihatsu cars will decline. Regular maintenance is clearly needed to keep the transporter always looking its best in all conditions.

Unfortunately, there are still car owners who focus on the exterior and interior in terms of maintenance. In fact, there is another equally important aspect, which is maintenance of the engine, as dust and dirt can easily enter that area.

Although there are rules to follow to avoid problems afterward. Here are safe ways to clean the car engine as quoted from automobile mechanics teacher.

Tools Needed

Before cleaning the car engine, it is advisable to prepare the necessary tools for a smooth process. The tools that need to be prepared include a bucket, hose, sponge, car soap, engine degreaser, and cloth according to their functions. And make sure the lighting in the area is sufficient, the parking location is flat, and clean water flows from a faucet that is not far away.

Ensure the Engine is Cold

Since the car engine is located inside, make sure the car engine is cold. Washing the car engine while it is still hot or after driving can actually damage the components of the engine. Try to wait 30-45 minutes afterward until the engine is completely cold. Alternatively, this can be done in the morning when the engine has not been used.

Car Battery Should Be Removed

Removing the car battery is the most important step in the process of cleaning the car engine. Because in the area where the engine is installed, there is usually a lot of dirt that needs to be cleaned. Especially mechanical components made of iron, rubber, plastic, and even some that contain electric current. To prevent electrical short circuits when cleaning the car engine with water, it is best to remove the battery from its casing.

Start by Cleaning Small Dust

The initial step in cleaning the car engine is to remove light dust with a duster or cloth. Daihatsu friends can start by sweeping the surfaces and crevices of the engine. This stage does not require water. However, this easy initial step usually motivates one to clean the car engine to the next stage.

Clean the Underside of the Car Hood

The area under the car hood is the next part that needs to be cleaned. This part is located at the top or directly above the engine and is easily accessible. If this part is overlooked, there is a high possibility that dirt will fall onto the engine that has already been cleaned.

The tools used are brushes or brooms that are proven to be more effective in cleaning stubborn dirt. Especially supported by special cleaning liquids to make cleaning easier. Then rinse with clean water slowly to avoid splashing water onto the engine surface.

Thoroughly Clean the Engine

Before focusing on the detailed components, it is advisable to clean the car engine on a larger surface first. To facilitate this stage, it is best to use a steam cleaner as it can lift dirt more quickly. The way this tool works is simply by spraying it onto the surface to be cleaned.

After being moistened, use a cleaning liquid and brush to lift stubborn dirt. If this method is not sufficient, a degreaser can be used to clean thoroughly down to the small pores of the car engine. And make sure to scrub the engine in the same direction to avoid creating irregular scratches.

Engine Drying Process

After all parts have been cleaned, rinse thoroughly. Ensure that all engine components do not leave any foam, leading to the next process, which is drying. This stage needs to be observed to avoid rust on the car engine due to improper drying methods.

Dry the engine components using a chamois cloth and leave the car hood open for 2-3 hours to ensure the car engine is completely dry. If you have a compressor, you can use it to dry the engine faster. After the battery is reinstalled, try starting the engine to ensure there are no issues.

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