Dirt/Debris on head, under valve cover...

[deevergote]

Ok, so I was a dumbass and allowed my new engine to remain uncovered in the rain. The valve cover wasn't bolted down tightly, and water got in there. I let it dry out in the sun, and mopped up what water I could... but now dirt has gotten in there.
Does anyone have any suggestions for how to clean it up, without removing the camshaft and such?

This is for an A20A (3rd gen engine), not an F or H, but it's basically the same thing.

[cp[mike]]

well, start by using a vacuum with a piece of tubing taped into the nozzle, to give yourself a mini vacuum hose to get the particles out. removing the camshaft & rockers before cleaning is a good idea that will provide way more visibility (make sure you got it all) as well as reduce the possibility of dirt getting stuck between moving parts. plus itll let you wipe down and lube the cams & rockers by hand, when installed you cant reach all the nooks and crannies. no guarantees if you just leave it "as is" before cleaning, but id say your only option really is to "rinse" anything remaining down into the oil pan, as that is what would happen once you run the engine... just doing it yourself first, gives you the opportunity to pull the oil pan off and wipe it down. i wouldnt recommend just to "drain" the oil but to actually pull the pan. there is probably some water down there, and water+oil makes sludge that doesnt just drain out with gravity. "rinse out the head" with what, idk.. maybe PBBlaster? the pressure will wash away stuff, the fluid wont hurt stuff, and it will help any rust.

[deevergote]

Cool. Thanks Mike.

I had this engine under my carport before the carport blew down, and I only had a trash bag covering it (which rotted in the sun and wind.) Stupid me for not checking to make sure the valve cover was properly bolted down.