Cleaning/Degreasing Engine

General discussion area for the L32-chassis Altima
Primodlt
Posts: 52
Joined: Wed Dec 02, 2020 8:42 pm
Car: 2011 Nissan Altima SL 2.5

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Just replaced the valve cover gasket on my 2011 Altima. I want to clean all the oil off the engine. How can I do this? Can I just use Engine cleaner and hose it down? Is there anything that I need to do to protect delicate components?


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VStar650CL
Technical Expert
Posts: 8291
Joined: Thu Nov 12, 2020 1:25 pm
Car: 2013 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL
2004 Nissan Altima 2.5 S

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If you don't want to take chances, cover the ECM and TCM connectors with plastic, and pop the IPDM cover and stuff a plastic bag over everything in there. None of it is usually necessary unless you're pressure washing. If you're simply using degreaser and a low-pressure garden hose, just make sure the IPDM cover is down tight.

Primodlt
Posts: 52
Joined: Wed Dec 02, 2020 8:42 pm
Car: 2011 Nissan Altima SL 2.5

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Where are both the ECM and TCM located? Is the IPDM the fuse box near the battery?

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VStar650CL
Technical Expert
Posts: 8291
Joined: Thu Nov 12, 2020 1:25 pm
Car: 2013 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL
2004 Nissan Altima 2.5 S

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ECM and TCM are together to the right of the battery. The IPDM is the thing with all the fuses under the oblong cover in front of the left strut tower.

Primodlt
Posts: 52
Joined: Wed Dec 02, 2020 8:42 pm
Car: 2011 Nissan Altima SL 2.5

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Can the Ignition coils, Ignition coils wires, injectors and injectors wiring get wet?

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VStar650CL
Technical Expert
Posts: 8291
Joined: Thu Nov 12, 2020 1:25 pm
Car: 2013 Nissan Altima 2.5 SL
2004 Nissan Altima 2.5 S

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Yes, they're all small connectors with sturdy seals, and the coils themselves are epoxy-potted. I've never seen low pressure washing cause a problem with any of them. When there are issues, it's always the big, multi-pin connectors that have more-complicated sealing systems.

jethbon
Posts: 40
Joined: Sun May 16, 2021 6:50 am
Car: 2014 Nissan Pathfinder

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You can do rinseless wash though it requires lots of towels.


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