I have also used the foamy engine brite. It works good. Some really greasy areas require a second spray, or a wire brush. But, like what has already been said, only spray when the engin is cool. If it bothers you, you can cover major electrical components like the alternator or distributor. I usually use a gas pressure washer, at idle. This still uses more pressure than a regular garden hose, but isnt overly powerfull. Just make sure you spray it all down good. I know the can says to use as little water as possible, but if you use only a little, the engine brite will leave a white film on the engine. Usually, I will start the car afterwords, to let the engine burn off the water left over. This will get rid of a lot of the water and lessen the chance of parts rusting. Also, you can use an air hose to remove large pockets of water.

 

I've detailed cars for many years so I'll tell you my techniques here. You guys can go about your way of it or if you want to improve you can listen on. Now, to an extent about washing the engine while it's hot will crack the block is a little blown out of proportion. If you've been driving all day in 150degree weather in florida and decide to spray your engine down with freezing cold water thats like 0 degrees than maybee, who knows. But for the most part this will never happen. Now let me give you a good reason to wash your engine down with the car running. When you leave your engine off water can get around spark plugs, or penetrate things that are fragile. If you leave the car running this will burn any water off it around the plugs etc... I know a lot of people that wash their engine and then can't get their car to start or burned out something. I dont' know about you but I wouldn't want to be stranded somewhere because I shorted something out. I have washed 100 cars with my method and have never had a problem since. It's to your discretion which way you choose to wash.

As for a cleaner, there are several agents out there I know corrode. I see a lot of people like to use simple green. Their older formula was known to corrode, I think they may have a new formula out there specifically for engines that they fixed. But just take caution with what you use. Foamy engine brite, is fine but I personally don't like it or use it. I personally like Zep Formula 50, All purpose if you can find it. Most degreasers are fine.

After your all done, leave the car running to burn off any excess water. Turn it off and what I usually like to do is spray down any rubber or plastic with tire dressing of your choice. You can either wipe off the excess with a towel, or turn the car back on, this will burn the tiredressing onto everything to give it a nice gloss look.

Enjoy!

 

I use "CD2". The stuff is wonderful. It comes in a 2 step process. Try it, you'll like it. Most auto parts stores have it.

 

Not recommended spraying down the engine with a hose though. I have been hearing to many horror stories behind that.
Use some engine degreasers. Depending on how dirty the engine bay is.

Matt