Engine bay cleaning

[jumpthewire]

just curious how/if anyone cleans their engine bay?

Anything to be cautious of?

[zkeeper]

Yes, I wash the bay on regular basis--maybe every other month or so...just depends on if car will be shown etc. I have kept it clean since purchase so it is no big deal to do, and stays that way. With some I have seen, well it might be a bit more work.

I know guys who use pressure washer, and have watched done with great results. Spraying a light surfactant on motor after covering alternator and other electric bits is needed...then brushing and washing off.

Personally I use Griots Engine Bay cleaner, after covering bits, and misting the engine with a hose...a cold engine. If needed I use a small clean brush to get into crevices etc, breaking up any dirt, and then rinse with a very light dribble of water till all is rinsed clean. I then wipe it down, and fire it up to dry it out even more. The enginebay can take getting wet, just not drowned. I have a power washer, but have just decided the above is better for my emotional life---love the sound of it starting up after rinsing. Best of luck on your cleaning project--I have found the longer its put off--the worse it gets.

Oh BTW--if you don't like idea of doing it--have a pro detailer do that bit for you while you do the rest of car...cheap at any cost. Bests...

[jumpthewire]

Thanks for the response!

[dekaliber]

Generally some all purpose cleaner and a microfiber towel that you don't use for the paint will do the trick. A brush for the crevices as suggested is a good idea. I don't rinse with a hose, but that's just me. I plan on trying some Adam's In and Out spray as it looks awesome for engine detailing.

[doozyj]

Tip, always wipe it down after washing your car with a damp microfiber towel and Meguiars quick detailer. If you always do this your engine bay will always be extemely clean and new looking. Don't wait until it is dirty to clean it.

[scottyD]

A slightly damp microfiber is all I use. Works just fine and no need to spray on chemicals or be careful about where not to spray water.

[bosstones]

Which type of cleaning are you looking for? As already noted, there are a couple different approaches to cleaning or detailing your engine bay. A quick wipe with a damp cloth and occassionaly use of a detailing brush is a simple way to go. If that's not enough or you're looking to detail the engine bay, then that might not be sufficient. In the case of the latter, above all else, make sure you mask off all electrical connections. That should be a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised... Some people use a pressure washer and a degreaser or various 'engine detailing' products sold by various places (e.g. Griots, autopia, etc...). Just don't use a high pressure wand. Some people just use a regular spray wand/nozzle on their garden hose.

[SHEEDI]

Which parts need to be covered, can somebody attach pic. please help.

[onebluemcm]

I don't cover anything anymore - everything that needs to be sealed is well sealed and I just keep water off the alternator - not hard to do, it's pretty hidden on the S54 anyway.

I use a brush and regular car wash soap. Light mist type spray from the hose to rinse, dry by hand. Have never had a problem, always looks better than new. I'm not one for all the shiny, glossy "protectants" that just act as major dirt magnets. I prefer the "natural" finish of the parts and bits under the hood, rarely having to use a protectant.

[Thisisdudewhoru]

Adams APC and a throwaway towel from the big pack from Sams club.