|
|
 |
The subject of engine degreasing can create quite a
stir within the detailing industry. There are numerous
theories, pitfalls, precautions and warnings about how to
or, for that matter, if you even should degrease an
engine. But, the fact remains that if you're a detail
shop these concerns are inherent to the business and you
pretty much have to perform this task. This is especially
true if you do any type of volume with used car lots.
Tell them you won't degrease their engines and you can
forget about their detail business and possibly any other
business you may be performing for them. Simply put, more
often than not, a complete detail includes the engine! |
|
While there may not be a totally fail safe, guaranteed,
no problem ever solution, you can put the odds in your
favor by following a few guidelines.
First, let the customer know that their decision to
clean the engine is a very good one and usually will not
cause any problems or damage and will actually give them
an engine that appears well maintained and looks great!
This can also add to the value of their vehicle at sales
time. Also, if they have an oil leak, once cleaned it
will allow them or their mechanic to easily diagnose or
locate the problem. Next explain the procedure you use
and precautions you take to do a professional job. Then,
again as a professional, let them also know that there is
a remote possibility of damage or exposing damage that
already exists due to the cleaning process. At that
point, we recommend a signed disclaimer form from the
customer holding you harmless. Without this disclaimer,
the entire burden is on you should something happen. It
is better to lose $39.95 from the sale than $600 or more
on repairs that you pay for! Most often, your customer,
even the dealer understands and agrees. Communicate and
be honest!
|
|
|
Now to the cleaning procedure. The first thing to do
is a visual inspection of the engine compartment for
loose or bare wires, sockets or plugs not fully connected
or anything that would throw up a red flag. Also, look
for aftermarket products, especially remote alarms. If
the siren is pointed up, it will act like a cup retaining
the water are surely destroy the siren and possibly the
alarm module. If any problems do exist, stop and show the
customer BEFORE you begin.
Assuming the inspection checks out OK, cover any critical
components such as distributor caps, computer modules,
fuse boxes, etc. Do not use aluminum foil as this can
conduct a short or power across components. Plastic
"Saran Wrap" usually works the best. |
"Soap up" the sides of the vehicle or
anywhere chemical overspray may land or settle on with a
good quality, high sudsing car wash. This will eliminate
any cleaning agents from causing damage to painted
surfaces that may drift when spraying. For the
degreasing, we recommend using a "surfactant"
type water-soluble cleaner rather than a solvent based
product such as kerosene or mineral spirits. The
surfactant "soap" solution can be less harmful
to complex electrical components and is usually
non-flammable as well. It will also rinse cleaner and
faster. Plus, it will break down faster from a
biodegradable standpoint, which helps keep the EPA and
local city inspectors happy. Spray liberally over the
engine and engine compartment taking special car not to
spray directly into connections, electrical boxes, etc.
Be sure to also spray hinges and underside of hood. Heavy
grease areas may need more attention or even the use of a
good quality brush.
Allow the cleaner to penetrate for several minutes then
avoiding the problem areas as mentioned above,
"blast" the grease and grime away. A garden
hose with an adjustable nozzle works fine but the
professional detail shop will normally have a pressure
washer of approximately 800-900 PSI. A pressure washer
with heat will dramatically increase the quality of the
job. The heat range should be in the area of 180 degrees
to maximize grime breakdown and efficient rinsing. Be
careful to stay away from heat in the 212-degree range as
this is where water boils and turns to steam. Steam will
not "blast" the grease away and may be more
susceptible to problems in electrical systems. It also
impairs vision while cleaning. Keep away from the
"fiber" style hood insulation as it will easily
fall apart if saturated with water and chemicals. Be
careful if you are using a pressure washer with a high
psi as it can actually peel the paint away. Another way
to gauge washer performance beyond the PSI specification
is gallons per minute. A good pressure washer will have a
rating of 3 gallons per minute or better.
You can "air dry" the vehicle by simply keeping
the hood open. This works great on a sunny day. Another
drying method or if the sun isn't out is to use an air
hose to blow the water away. Afterwards, run the engine
for several minutes with the hood open to dry out any
remaining water or moisture.
Dressing procedures. Once the engine is clean and
reasonably dry, it's time to finish off the process for
your customer. While the cleaning removes the dirt,
grime, and grease, it's the dressing that truly makes the
job shine, literally!
Start with a cool engine that is not running when
applying dressing. Since most dressings are solvent
based, and solvents are subject to flames and combustion,
a spark from an engine with the ignition on or with the
vehicle running could be dangerous. Also, since you are
spraying a "mist" of the dressing (solvent)
into the air, it can increase the flammability. Common
sense will go a long way here. While it is important for
you to observe these precautions, it is very rare that
something like this can happen. Our two company stores
have degreased and dressed thousands of engines over the
past 17 years without any such damage nor have we ever
had any detailers report such an incident. But it is
important to be aware of this situation and always
remember safety first!
Spray dressing liberally to a fine even coat or layer
across the engine and engine compartment. Be sure to
spray from several angles to gain complete coverage. Take
special care around vehicle oxygen sensors as these can
be damages by oils and silicone sprays. Most detailers
will use a silicone dressing for a true, more
professional appearance rather than a "clear
paint." Clear paint will give the appearance of a
cosmetic make over or "glazed donut" effect
while the silicone dressing will give it a much more well
maintained look. It even helps to keep the belts and
hoses more pliable. Now, wipe off any excess dressing
that may have drifted into any other areas to complete
the job.
It's always a good idea to keep a can or two of wire dry
and starting fluid around. These may not always cure a
problem, but they can definitely get you through a few
temperamental engines.
To summarize, engine degreasing is a popular service to
the public and wholesale trade. It can produce excellent
profits as very little cost is involved with supplies or
labor. Average cost should be $39.95 to $59.95. Don't
cheat yourself by offering it free or at a low cost of
$19.95. You're entitled to a profit for your services and
you need to cover your exposure to the risk of damage.
When using any chemicals or compressed air and hot water,
ALWAYS THINK SAFETY FIRST. Read the chemical and product
labels, including MSDS sheets, for use of gloves, eye
goggles, ventilation or other protective procedures.
This is an overview of our observations and experience
with degreasing and detailing. It is not meant to be
inclusive of all procedures and cautions, but rather a
guide. Check with car manufacturers on specific vehicles
that may not lend themselves to the degreasing process.
We hope that it helps you in your pursuit of building a
more professional and profitable detailing business. If
you have any questions or would like to comment on these
procedures or add a suggestion please email us at
info@stevenscarcare.com.
Jeffrey Stevens is the owner and founder of Stevens
Auto Glaze and Security, Inc., a two-store retail chain
that details, rustproofs, and installs 12-volt products
and bolt ons. He is also the owner and founder of Stevens
Car Care Products, Inc. which manufactures detailing
products and supplies, auto alarms, and electronic rust
control systems. |
|
