engine bay cleaning

[digglesworth]

So whats the best (and safest) way to clean the engine compartment? I hate the idea of just spraying it out with a pressure washer. I usually spray around the perimeter trying not to directly spray the important stuff. Fuse box, alternator, coil packs, etc... But after today's outting, it is a complete mess...

 

[Panzer07]

I just spray and pray...haven't got any problem I usually have he engine on thru the hole process sown thing use one of them car cleaning soft long brush brushes with some car soap and scrubs wherever it reaches and fits.


Torres

 

[K0PIR]

I haven't sprayed mine out yet, but I've heard of people covering the electrical stuff (pcm, etc.) with plastic bags and then carefully spraying. That's what I'm going to be doing.

 

[digglesworth]

i think thats what ill do too... id rather not have the truck running and be spraying cool water on a hot motor... i usually lay a tarp over the whole bay to wash the underside of the hood. gotta wash all the grime outta my synthetic winch line too...

 

[rsc]

I don't pressure wash under the hood. I just use a small stream of water and stay away from the coil packs, PCM and the open end of the fuse box. I do not mind if I get some water in the alternator, I'm not powering the water and mud into it though. I also do the wash to a warm but not hot motor and let it sit for several hours with the hood up to dry before trying to start it. Use silicone spray on the engine compartment and it should clean up easier the next time, WD-40 can be used as well but it traps dust and doesn't last as long.

 

[digglesworth]

Turned out pretty good. Got some 'super clean' degreaser from AutoZone. Used a couple brushes and a washcloth to get into the nooks and crannies. Set my garden hose to shower to rinse everything out. Don't have my air compressor here so I used a leaf blower (no joke) to blow everything out and dried the rest off with a towel. I heard wd40 breaks down the hoses and stuff over time. I just used a little quick detailler on some of the plastic parts.

 

[rascole]

That's why I never go in mud anymore. Not worth it.

 

[poncho1965]

Like rocks better than mud lol

 

[digglesworth]

Mud is terrible!!! It's definitely my least favorite thing.