I am going to clean the engine compartment today for the first time since i got the car. I did a search and couldn't find what i was looking for. I heard simple green was the best product to use, but was wondering exactly what method should be used for cleaning; are there any parts that cant get wet?, can i use a hose or do i have to rinse it by hand?, is there anything i shouldn't get the simple green on?, and is there anything else i should be careful of?

Thanks for your time and response

SRQC5

 

i use compressed air instead of water... you dont want to use water anywhere since there are so many electricals that can go bad.

 

When I cleaned mine for the first time, I sprayed the greasiest areas with Simple Green and lightly rinsed off with a water hose.
Now, after the initial de-greasing, I always lightly mist the engine bay with water every time I wash the car. Then use an electric leaf blower to get the water out of all the crevices. I'll then just wipe off any remaining water/dirt with a towel.
Just to be safe, I always cover the alternator with plastic or aluminum foil to keep it dry.

 

I agree with Jim - I use Simple Green Concentrate (available at Costco by the gallon) spray on the greasy areas and lightly spray on everything. Common sense should prevail here - don't spray directly on electrical terminals or connections. I leave it sit for five minutes or so, then I very lightly spray water to rinse off the gunk. I follow that with compressed air (I use my compressor) to blow any water that I can see dry - and wipe down with a towel. I follow all of it with some Meguiar's #40 Vinyl and Rubber treatment on the plastic and hoses.

I also remove the fuel rail covers and wash them with soap and water off the car - top and underside. I use compressed air to blow all the accumulated crap away from the injectors and all the stuff sitting on top of the engine. With the FRC's off - it's a good time to wipe down the plenum and treat it - since it is fully exposed and not blocked by the FRC's.

Once the engine compartment is clean, it's easy to blow dry and wipe dry everytime you wash the car. Besides having the satisfaction of a clean engine compartment, you will also find that the engine will run a little cooler since all the grime and dirt doesn't keep the air from getting at the engine. Also - if the engine is clean, you can spot any oil leaks or trouble a lot easier. It's also more fun to dress the engine compartment or work on anything there is you're not going to get filthy from just opening the hood. Good luck!

 

Might visit here:

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...3&forum_id=103

Bob

 

 

Thanks for your quick responses...all went well and the car is lookin good.

Thanks for posting the link to that thread...that is the one i was searching for.