Just want to know what's the best cleaning product for my engine. Putting it away for the winter.

 

I'm not a big fan of using cleaners or water on the engine. Too many electronics and too many areas that are sensative. I use a solution of citrus cleaner and water. I just lightly spray and wipe everything down.

 

kendiesel,

You didn't really specify the condition or any trouble areas in your post, so I don't know how much detail you're asking for.

When I feel adventuresome, and usually about once or twice a year before show season, I do the hose-down thing with a light degreaser (agitated with a brush where necessary). Rinse with a medium spray and avoid delicate surfaces, adjusting the spray as necessary.

Then I'll use a light mix of a good car wash mixed with water in a spray bottle to "neutralize" the degreaser and then rinse lightly.

Then I'll do a 50/50 mix of a light dressing like Mothers Protectant and mist the entire engine compartment, including the hood liner. I'll keep the hood up to help prevent it from sagging if I got it too wet (with water), and I'll start the engine. When it looks like the hood liner is done draining, I'll drop the hood and let it "dry" with the engine running for about 15 minutes.

Be prepared to not have your car start, or have a Check Engine light condition -- that's where ZAXJAX's recommendation fits a little better for most folks. But I'd probably still do the protectant mist after cleaning as it'll help protect the hoses and belts.