How to clean engine/bay ?

[Bingo]

OK, the engine/bay is full of dust and grime. Not greasy just dirty. How do I clean it without screwing up electrical, etc ?

Did a Search but too many variables.

Car running or off ?

Chemicals or no ?

High pressure or just plain old hose ?

I don't want to eat off of it but I would like to clean out all the dirt.

Thanks.

[mr1114]

Everytime I buy a used car I clean the engine bay. Since sometimes there are oil leaks, I spray engine degreaser all around the engine and transmission, and anywhere its greasy. I wait a few minutes then spray with a water hose. After that I either let the engine run for a few minutes or just go for a drive. After everything is dry I spray interior vinyl cleaner on all the black parts (hoses, brackets, etc) to bring out the shine. I wipe with a rag first, then spray again without wiping, instead letting the heat of the engine dry it off. Everything comes out looking great, and new. I guess in your case you wouldnt need to use degreaser.

I've done this on many cars and just a few days ago on my Corolla, without any problems or ill effects from spraying water. I dont cover anything and shoot pretty much everywhere.

[SCT]

At least, just use a plastic to cover up any electrical components like ECU or ignition parts. But either way, those components see weather anyways for them being under the hood. Likely, nothing will be hurt. However, with the use of chemicals that breaks down grease, some electrical connectors are sprayed with corrosion and moisture sprays. The cleaning chemicals may rid those, but you can buy those sprays and respray.

[dktaco]

Originally Posted by Bingo

OK, the engine/bay is full of dust and grime. Not greasy just dirty. How do I clean it without screwing up electrical, etc ?

Did a Search but too many variables.

Car running or off ? ON, after it has been washed and you are letting the engine bake. See below.

Chemicals or no ? YES

High pressure or just plain old hose ? HIGH PRESSURE, remember a pressure washer uses more air than water.

I don't want to eat off of it but I would like to clean out all the dirt. I prefer to eat off mine.

Thanks.

Searching would have come up w/ the a awesome method that has never failed.

Engine detail


Any mild degreaser is fine I use Simple Green or Purple Power and use a brush to scrub off the tough grim. Then I cover the intake and alternator that is it. I then go get the pressure washer and spray the heck out of the engine and bay. Once done I get Armor All Foam Tire or Stoner's More Shine For Less and spray the whole motor, hoses, plastics, etc. Start up the engine and let the vehicle run for 20 mins, the heat from the engine evaporates the water and lets the foam absorb into the plastics and rubbers. After 20 mins. turn off the engine and wipe down the small excess you have left over with an old micro fiber towel and you have bright shinny non-greasy detailed engine.