Here is the OP's quote from the first post....

Big no no on all accounts.

 

sorry, mistyped the explanation in a rush at work. It wasn't running. I rinsed down the engine with the engine off, and then ran it to dry it out quicker.

I think thats ok with what i researched as long as there are no wet connectors or alternator right?

 

That's fine. As long as it's not running, you are fine. However, never spray a hot motor, even if it's off.

 

NFR- If you dont mind me asking, whats the real harm in running on a warm/running engine bay? I figure its something logical, and I never do it, but just am curious as to the reasoning. Thanks!

-Matt

 

wow that's pretty damn clean compared to the before pics, looks way much better

 

Stress on metal seals and all metal components. Metal doesn't like to cool quickly. Spraying hot headers can cause them to crack. Cast aluminum also cracks with huge temperature swings. It's not worth the risk, and sort of pointless, as the water will quickly evaporate, not letting you actually clean anything. The proper way to clean a motor is to spray it with cleaner, and let it sit for a minute of two before you scrub and rinse. With a hot motor, it will just evaporate, leaving white deposits all over your motor bay.

 

Thanks for the info. I knew about how it would adversely effect cleaning but was just curious as to the physical harm of it.

_Matt

 

I read in my many hours of trawling the W&W forum that some people like to have the engine running so that if it 'hiccups' when washing down, you know that you are spraying in a 'bad' area.

Personally, I think its fine just to hose down anywhere apart from directly on the alternator from what people have written as a whole.

Can someone suggest suitable cleaner for the J's catch can? Is metal polish fine to use? It seems like a stange alloy mix?

 

^Its easy to cover the parts with a plastic bag. I think the parts to be covered are the Alternator, fuse boxes and battery.

 

bump for an answer on the J's racing catch can....