Got my 04 vet new, but it has been sitting for almost a year. Want to clean the engine and comparment. What's the recommended procedure? I know power washing is not a good idea.

 

There was an article in corvette fever i believe in december. essentially it said there is no problem getting the engine wet. You want to wet the compartment down with a water hose with a spray nozzle only directly the spray at the engine block. Personally, I would cover the air intake and battery compartment with a tarp or the like, but everything else should be fine. Once wet use Simple Green degreaser or greased lightning degreaser all over the compartment. Many people dilute the solution with waster because they feel as though it it too strong. After that let it soak (do not do this in the direct sunlight because it may discolor some engine parts. Take off the fuel rail covers and clean and spray under there as well. After that rinse it all off. Then it is very important to dry everything. I use a leaf blower to blow any water out of the alternator and from under the fuel rail covers. Do this to prevent rusting. After everything has been blown dry you are all done.

I forgot to mention an important feature. When cleaning the engine bay make sure the engine is completely cool. Such as in the morning after the car has been sitting over night. Do not run it for any extended period of time beforehand because the water in contact with hot engine parts could create condensation in the electrical components. Do not power wash and do not use compressed air. These methods could very well get water in places it is not supposed to be. Just wash it down with a regular hose and blow it dry with a leaf blower.

 

This is my weekend project along with installing a new shifter.

 

I use the Simple Green method and lightly mist/rinse with water. I always cover my alternator and fuse block for good measure. Works great and have never had a problem.

 

try "eagle one" all purpose wheel cleaner. works on painted and non-painted aluminum, does not hurt rubber, plastic and works great. simple green is my second pick

 

Meguiars Hot Shine works great on engine parts as well. As far as cleaning, I hose everything down and then shoot everything with simple green and hose again (with a warm engine). Then tear it up with Hot Shine.

 

 

I use this technique, but I have my motor warm (not hot) and it seems to steam-clean itself a little better. I spray the hoodliner too.

Works great!

 

Simple Green -- like everyone says.