What is the best way to clean my engine bay?? I heard to just get some engine degreaser and take it to a self car wash and use the pressure washer. Any other Ideas? Can I damage anything with the water in the engine bay??

 

I used this degreaser cleaner thing, cant remember which kind. but i used a tooth brush and got down onto the intake manifold and certain other parts. i used mostly like little hand towels that i rinsed in water. took a while but the engine was very clean when i was finished. i dont know about the pressure washer. i wouldnt do it in my opinion.

 

I was thinking with the high pressure it may knock a connector loose or something and shortout the entire system. I like your idea. Nice and slow and get all the dirt off. Thanks for the advice!!!

 

i was thinkin the same thing, gettin some loose or disconnected. my engine was filthy when i bought the car looked like no one took care of it(probably true).

 

Mine was immaculant, but ever since I bought it I've been scared to touch it, but this weekend I believe I will tackle it. She's due for a bath anyway.

 

You guys should check out the how-tos on autogeek.net and autopia.org
Very detailed instructions about engine detailing. Also, when you're finished cleaning, you should use some sort of detail spray.
My favorite is Sonus Trim and Motor Kote. It is an acrylic wax (spray on) that leaves a great looking non-greasy look. And it doesn't attract dust. It will take months of abuse and is also good for wheel wells, to shield them from dirt and grime build up.
Later.

S W


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Thanks for the advice man!! On the wheel well note, I assume there are some details on cleaning that crusted dirt out of there? Or do you have any suggestions?

 

About 2 months ago, I decided I wanted very a very clean look for wells and calipers. I also enjoy detailing, so this may not be for every one.
I took off the wheels and cleaned very well (then let dry). Then painted the wheel well and calipers with Krylon BBQ black paint.
After a couple of washes is when I discovered the Sonus product on autopia.org. It should be a shield against too much gunk accumulating and hopefully keep my BBQ black really looking good.

My car is stored most of the time, so the wells really don't get that dirty. I just use a scrub sponge and car wash.
But with my daily driver (2000 S10), I just use an older mit or scrub with a brush. If it's really dirty I use Purple Power degreaser with the scrubbing. Ever so often when the DD wheel wells start to discolor or look dirty, I just spray paint the well again. Later
S W



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my buddy has detailing business and i asked him the same thing he said he does it to every car what you want to do is get some plastic bags and ties or elastics cover the alternator any air filter that might get soaked any uncovered wires and you are all set to spray however i hear that it is also safe if you just spray it down and leave the engine running it will not affect the alternator just watch the for the air filter