Keeping the engine bay clean?

[Lamski]

What's the easiest and most effective way to clean and keep the engine bay clean. Do I need to get a steam cleaner? Im guessing I can't just spray degreaser and hose off... Don't want to cause any damage.

[glenn14]

I use a degreaser and spray the engine block not the plastics rinse everthing off with a hose and attachment and try to keep the water away from the electrical components like the alternator etc. Dry everything with a cloth then amourall all of the plastic stuff like the valve cover etc. Here is a pic.

Glenn

[muckdawg24]

Originally Posted by Lamski

What's the easiest and most effective way to clean and keep the engine bay clean. Do I need to get a steam cleaner? Im guessing I can't just spray degreaser and hose off... Don't want to cause any damage.

Good question, I want to know too. I usually haven't cleaned engine bays but it would help come maint. time.

[glenn14]

Originally Posted by muckdawg24

Good question, I want to know too. I usually haven't cleaned engine bays but it would help come maint. time.

Did you read my post above w/pic ??? I use a mild degreaser spray the engine block, rinse off..I'll get a plastic bag and cover the alternator etc. I also use a plastic handle brush to get into the tough areas to scrub then rinse off.
I rinse the plastic engine cover..battery,air box anything plastic under the hoods to get rid of dust and sand etc. Then I wipe them down with a cloth and then use a dressing to keep the black shiny look..

Glenn

[CamrySExxx]

Originally Posted by glenn14

Did you read my post above w/pic ??? I use a mild degreaser spray the engine block, rinse off..I'll get a plastic bag and cover the alternator etc.
I rinse the plastic engine cover..battery,air box anything plastic under the hoods to get rid of dust and sand etc. Then I wipe them down with a cloth and then use a dressing to keep the black shiny look..

Glenn

Yup do that, make SURE to cover the alternator and let the engine cool down first before you spray water. Get a soft brush and scrub at the stubborn oil spots if you get your car oil sprayed. And once it dries up, put protectant onto the plastic parts. I use aerospace 303, my fav interior/plastic protectent. Depending on how anal you are you can just use a cloth to wipe it down, or get smaller brushes and what not to get every crack and crevice. And form here on, just maintain the engine bay so you dont let everything build up again.

For my after I initially clean it, (summer) I usuually just wipe the plastic down after I clean my interior since im using the same product. Once I get the car oil sprayed though, after winter, during spring I do a full clean up again.

[my.rims.are.stock]

I also wrap my K&N SRI filter in a couple of plastic wal-mart bags to make sure it doesn't get soaked. If you are still stock, I would make sure you didn't spray any water into the RAM opening on the front.

I also use this:
http://www.amsoil.com/storefront/apf.aspx

[lostsignal]

I personally don't see a need for anything more than an APC, towels, and maybe some degreaser. I just use an APC and towels. Then cover the plastics in 303.

If I could do it any way I wanted I'd use a steamer for sure. I wouldn't put a hose anywhere near it.

[CTB727]

I use a steamer, Meguiar's APC+ diluted 4:1, towels, and dress it with 303 Aerospace protectant. MUCH better than Armor All. Guaranteed.

[racerchoi]

I usually have a car wash steam clean it every summer for $40. Looks sharp and polish lasts about 8-9 months.