Purple Power Degreaser?

This works great. We use it to clean transmissions and engines.

 

Mix as needed. If it's really nasty I'll spay down the engine and follow with water.

 

Previously, I used to spray Gunk & pressure wash my engine, but when I did the timing belts there was some very mild, but fresh corrrosion on the cams. After washing the car was driven for an hour, but probably some steam got in there.
Also, some of those water based degreasers are hard on aluminium. Since then, my process has been to use a $5 Harbor Freight engine cleaning gun and Stodard solvent (Mineral Spirits). Put a plastic tarp down and go at it. Use some plastic lids to catch it in heavy areas. In actuality not much of the solvent is required and it is easy to wipe-up with some old rags. It does a good job.

Mark

 

Simple Green makes an aircraft grade cleaner that is safe for aluminum. I use that mixed 50/50 with distilled water, spray it on and let it drip off, and then follow with a spray of fresh water, followed by compressed air.

I use these sorbent pads from McMaster (#7193T83) and lay them under the car to catch the run off.

 

I think Purple power has a mild acid in it. I used on my British motorcycle and it etched the polished aluminum. I also used it in my bathroom and it etched the mirror. On cast aluminum it probably will be fine. I think simple green is milder.



Ago

 

Simple Green and Purple Power will each strip anodized aluminum, including clear anodized aluminum so be careful

 

+1 This is the correct way to insure no damage to the aluminum.