I know it's not good to wash an engine with just a power washer, but what about the button that is for washing engines at a car wash, is that ok to use? Anyone know?

 

I think its ok. But I have heard that the chemicals will also eat away at the seals and corrode areas like the battery connections. I usually do it the old fashion way with a rag, grease cleaner and elbow grease

 

For light crud buildup, I use a can of engine cleaner and a regular hose. Power washers and coin-op carwashes tend to push pressurized water into little crevices where you don't want it (like inside electrical connectors) so I won't use one unless I have to; however, for heavy, sludgy oil buildup, they work great- you just have to be careful where you aim them.

Before you wash the engine, I have a tip: Remove the spark plug wires (and the coil packs if you have a 2.0L or a 1.6L), stuff some shop rag scraps into the spark plug holes, then duct tape the holes and the electrical connectors shut and don't aim the water spray directly at them. The design of the Pro's valve cover makes water drain into the plug holes, but if you get water down there it will cause a nasty misfire, which will make your car run like crap and turn on the MIL. Make sure they stay dry. Consider yourself warned.

 

just a little tip for all you show goers, tri using foaming tire cleaner on your engine bay and every thing in it. after a week of rain the bay was filthy, a guy i work with told me about it. i wondered if it would work, or just **** something up. so i tried it on my dodge truck first. that stuff works like a champ. all i use is that stp tire cleaner. give it a try.