Then, if you must have "shine", hit it with engine compartment spray from 
Engine Compartment Cleaning
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 6,515
Likes: 1,302
From: Windermere FL
I cover things like the alternator, air filter, etc with plastic bags, then use Simple Green in a spray bottle. Let it sit on a totally cold engine for five minutes. Then spray the engine with a light mist from a garden hose. If you fire hose it you might have big problem, but a lite mist seems ok. Then I blow the excess water off with a leaf blower.
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 193
Likes: 4
From: Mass
When I first got my car I used simple green, scrubbed down everything and rinsed it off with the hose. I used simple green because I feel its less abrasive on all the electronics. I really am not a fan of spraying down the motor with water. These motors are not meant to be wet like that. Since the first really good cleaning I just use Adams detail spray. Spray everything down and wipe off. I just try to stay on top of cleaning the motor so I don't have to do a deep clean again. Good luck.
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 1,587
Likes: 90
I use GUNK engine degreaser from the local auto parts stores.
Used it for years. I then use a little WD40 to spray on any electrical connection points that may have gotten wet.
Done this for years and it works with no nasty after affects. I then start the engine and let it get good and warm/hot.
Used it for years. I then use a little WD40 to spray on any electrical connection points that may have gotten wet.
Done this for years and it works with no nasty after affects. I then start the engine and let it get good and warm/hot.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 7,615
Likes: 142
From: Lake Simcoe..... Back in Black baby!!!
Toronto Events Coordinator
Best done on a warm, not hot engine. Presoak with a GP spray cleaner, such as Spray9. Let it sit for a few minutes, rinse with a garden hose, do not spray directly into electrical components. I then use a blower to dry, and start the engine.
Lastly, mist the entire engine compartment with Aerospace Protectant 303 and close the hood.
Been doing this for many years, 0 issues, 100% great results.
Lastly, mist the entire engine compartment with Aerospace Protectant 303 and close the hood.
Been doing this for many years, 0 issues, 100% great results.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 8,205
Likes: 40
From: Tucson AZ
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Now I use detail spray on the airbrushed parts then use the damp Mico fiber towel to wipe everything else down. Use low pressure air twice a year.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 823
Likes: 7
From: Rosewood Heights IL
Very wrong. I used low pressure spot free rinse and water got into the MAF connector. Caused all kinds of driving problems. Had it towed to dealer. Ran perfect after they dried it out.
Now I use detail spray on the airbrushed parts then use the damp Mico fiber towel to wipe everything else down. Use low pressure air twice a year.
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 198
Likes: 2
From: Madisonville Louisia
I use combination of shop vac ,low air pressure nozzle , small brush to dislodge anything that might be in a crevice then wipe down with micro fiber and a detail spray never been a problem