Cleaning My I/O??

[paczowski123]

Well to start off let me say im a super neat freak. One thing that really erks me is when i open a hood, or engine cover to find a dirty, greasy motor. Ive had my boat about 6 months and one thing that has really erked me about it is the slightly unclean motor. I am about to venture down the path of cleaning it up to make, the looks as well as maintenance a little cleaner while doing so. My question is there anything i need to be cautious of or to stay away from while cleaning it. I plan on using a degreaser, hose, brushes, and plastic bags to cover the electronincs. Is there anything else i neeed to do? I also plan on coating the motor after im done with a light coat of WD-40 or fogging oil to help displace the water, and help keel rust from depositing? Does it sound like i am missing anything, or is there any other methods, advice or what not you can provide?

 

[Another retired guy]

Re: Cleaning My I/O??

Sounds like you thought of everything some observations though :- why is it oily, is there a leak somewhere? Be careful with WD 40 - it is flammable and why is there water on the engine?
My engine is oil free and dry - never have to do anything except quick wipe with a rag.

 

[paczowski123]

Re: Cleaning My I/O??

Not necessarily oily, just grimy, dirty from not being kept clean. And the water would come
From the hose spraying off the degreaser.

 

[Another retired guy]

Re: Cleaning My I/O??

Not necessarily oily, just grimy, dirty from not being kept clean. And the water would come
From the hose spraying off the degreaser.

I would just let engine heat dry off the water and forget the WD40 as it will just attract more dust/dirt etc. and have to be recleaned. Leave the surfaces oil-free and they will keep clean longer.

 

[jkust]

Re: Cleaning My I/O??

My engine is staring to get a little dusty after 9 seasons. I'd never let my car engine stay dusty but am hesitant to hose it with complete disregard like I do with my vehicle engine bays. I'd like to get in there with the pressure washer.