I'm going to have to admit I haven't technically "cleaned" my fins yet, beyond a rinse while cleaning the coach. But a few years back I read posts here and I think on the CAT Club site about radiator cleaning, and looked into it for future use. I have cleaned other car radiators and engines in years past, but not the Beaver's since it doesn't exhibit much sticky dirt yet.
Rather than repeat it all here, I defer you to the previous discussions so you'll have a better idea of things. Just punch in "Simple Green" to the Search field at the top of this page, and review some of the threads.
Generally, use Extreme Simple Green in lieu of the more common basic S.G. Spray it from squeeze bottle or diluted concentrate in other type of sprayer, from both sides of the radiator/cooler/condenser complex, coating as deeply as possible. Let it sit awhile but keep it misted wet meantime. Then thoroughly rinse from both sides, gently so no fins are bent.
That's why I wouldn't use a power washer as some people have been known to do. And try not to get too much effluent on the engine; there are components there that don't like to get inundated. Some run the engine so moving air draws fluid deep into the fin complex, but I'd expect the resulting heat to dry the cleaner out too fast, so I wouldn't do that. Just my 2 cents.
Check out the old threads
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-Joel
