What's the best way and what should I be careful of (outside of covering air intake)

Can I use a pressure washer?

Jim

 

i defintately would NOT use a pressure washer, regular hose will be ok, soapy water and a brush would be my weapons of choice

 

say no thanks to WASHING the engine bay, just clean it

 

Run the engine for about 5 minutes to bring it up to temp. Warm...not hot. This way, the water your do spray on turns into steam.

Use deionized water...it eliminates any possibility of water spots. Spray on a safe and biodegradable citrus cleaner such as P21S Total Auto Wash or Zymol Strik. Allow to dwell for about 5 mintues. Aggitate with a soft horse hair brush, then rinse with DI water again. I use a AirWand (leaf blower + attachment) to dry off the engine bay.

People are + or - on adding engine dressing on...that's up to you.

- bob

edit...if you are dealing with the underside of the engine bay, I found a steam cleaner to be very helpful.

 

Thanks to everyone for the advice - I will have a go at the weekend.

Jim