I washed my engine with simple green, now it is running rough?

I also changed the PCV valve with a new OEM one.

Hi,

The idea that this happened after washing the engine simply indicates we have something electrical wet. Although the check engine light isn't on, I would suggest checking to see if there are any codes stored.

Here is a link that explains how to do it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/toyota-trouble-code-definitions-and-code-gathering-method-1990-1995

Next, if you were spraying under the hood, the ignitor, and the distributor/ignition coil are there. Did they get wet when you worked on the engine bay? See pic below

Note, I highlighted the PCM, but that should be on the inside of the vehicle. Check those components for water, dampness, and so on. Also, I realize you replaced the spark plug wires, but did you remove the distributor cap to make sure nothing is wet?

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.

I washed the whole engine bay about a week ago so I’m sure everything got wet, even the igniter, distributor cap, coils, etc. Also, I checked for check engine codes and there are no codes. I haven’t removed the distributor cap to see if something is wet, but I will check it. Could something really still be wet/damp after a week? Wouldn’t anything wet/damp dried by evaporation by now?

Hi,

I would have expected things to dry, but if water was pressured into something and there was little to no airflow once it was inside, it could cause the issue. But like you, I feel it would have dried by now.

You mentioned checking for vacuum leaks. Did you use something like carburetor cleaner while the engine was running to check? You could have a hose that you don't see.

Take a look at this link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Next, have you gone over the electrical connectors on the engine to make sure they are tight and weren't affected by the water pressure?

Let me know. Also, if you could, record the engine starting and running so I can hear it. Let me know if it is simply a rough idle or if there is an obvious misfire.

Let me know.

Joe

I pulled the distributor cap and rotor off. They weren’t wet but I attached pictures of both. Are the terminals on the cap bad and is the tip of the rotor bad?

Hi,

I've seen a lot worse. They should be replaced, but it isn't an emergency. Is the vehicle still running rough? By chance, did you try the carb cleaner test?

Let me know.

Joe