So I figured my engine bay could use some loving.

What do you guys cover before cleaning the engine bay?

 

I put a grocery bag over the fuse box/battery, the alternator and air filter if it's exposed. If the car has a stock air box, just plug the entry with a bag. Other than that you're all set. Use a garden hose because you don't want a pressure washer blasting water into places that it won't come out of. Pre-wash with a good degreaser and brushes to minimize the amount of water required. Good luck!

 

thanks!

I was thinking of using APC/Simple Green to degrease, let it sit for a little while, scrub scrub scrub, rinse off, then 303 on the plastic bits and rubber hoses.

Anything else you can think of that would be worth doing while I'm in there?

 

I do a similar process as mswitz, I cover the important parts, spray with Simple Green/water mix then use various soft bristle brushes to agitate dirtier areas. Once I rinse things off, I use an air compressor to blow out water in hard to reach spots. Then I turn on the car, spray 303 all over the plastic/rubber bits, close the hood and wait. The heat of the engine helps dry the 303 and spread it a little for even coverage.

 

I've made it a habit since mine was new to try and keep it clean. Once or twice a year I spray 409 on the heavily soiled areas, let it sit for a couple of minutes, and rinse with a soft flow from the garden hose. I don't cover anything, but I'm very careful around the intake and alternator. Typically, I'll start it up and let it run with the hood closed while I wash the outside of the car. When I'm done washing, I'll take a trip around the block to "shake out" the excess water. Looks like new after 13 years!

 

What do you guys like to put on the valvecover, there used to be a product called CD-2 that many members used, but I think that is no longer available.

 

Sonax engine cleaner works extremely well and it's safe for all metals, so no discoloration. Afterward Sonax Trim Kote will remind you of the effects of CD-2, only better.


http://www.autogeek.net/sonus-trim-motor-kote.html

 

Good info in here, as I plan on cleaning mine when it comes out of storage. The dust over the winter in my under ground parking made it filthy last winter. The engine bay was spotless when it went away for the winter.

I think my engine is just dusty, so I don't think I'll need to put anything on it to clean it prior to rinsing it off. Is it a must to put sealant on it after? I assume this is so the rubber tubes don't dry/crack?

 

I am just about to detail the engine. Just received my Mother's APC from autogeek. I think any brand APC will work well as long as you dilute it properly. Thanks guys for providing helpful information. Only thing I am lacking is detailing brushes so I'll just use an old micro fiber to agitate any dirt and oil when I clean it.

 

Thanks very much, I think I will try those products on my next detail products order, thanks very much

Joey