scoobymyster

First of all, Hello to everyone, Im a newbie to Scoobynet.
Id like to know the best way to give my engine a really good clean and what fluids are best to use. Do i just leave engine running and go at it with the old jet washer (proberly not).
A bit of a newbie question i know but id really like to clean engine and bay up so any advise on how to do it would be appreciated
thanks


My Scooby

172sport

iTrader: (6)

Always used a water based de greaser and pait brush, then jet wash off.

scoobyman223

iTrader: (7)

Hi blue
nice car ,as for cleaning engine i always use Poorboys APC (all purpose cleaner) cracking stuff just spray on then agitate with a brush and wash off with hose pipe, drop polished bliss on here a line they will say for sure

scoobymyster

Do i have to cover electrical stuff (alternater etc) with a plastic bag or anything to protect it from water when using hose pipe
thanks

Timwinner

iTrader: (3)

I got a little steam cleaner from Lidl, its amazing, works so well. I avoided the electrical stuff and it runs fine, Do it every few months now.

stara

you should cover electrical stuff i.e. alternator and sensors, and DO NOT jet wash your intercooler otherwise you'll have bent fins everywhere.

bigarf

iTrader: (67)

you just use a little steam cleaner and the engine bay comes up like that,bloody hell i'm on my way to buy one.

scoobymyster

Bloody hell yours is spotless, ive got a small steam cleaner il try it
thanks

M444GY

iTrader: (72)

i use gunk or meguires degreaser , a paint/toothbrush and a pressure washer . i take the coilpack and airflow meter off before i start spraying to stop moisture getting in.

s70rjw

iTrader: (2)

Cover your alternator, intercooler and electrics. Same for your alarm, if its sounder is visible. APC of your choice.Agitate with brushes then rinse with low pressure hose or watering can. Allow to tickover for 10 mins with bonnet down. Switch off, wipe away any puddles, eg ridges on the airbox. Detail with finishing product of your choice eg 303 Aerospace Protectorant. Drive for 20 mins to assist hardening of the product. Raise bonnet enjoy your result.

Steve001

iTrader: (7)

group buy on steam cleaners?

s

TonyBurns

iTrader: (3)

Warm your engine up (not too hot) then wash with water, use something like gunk, a toothbrush or toilet type brush to get into those cracks (your engine should be off when cleaning and rinsing) ensuring you cover the electrics unless you are very careful (but cover your alternator!) leave it for a few minutes to get into the grime, then wash off ensuring you have cleaned everything well (including the underside of your bonnet), jump into car and go for a little drive to warm the engine up (hot) so it all dries out

Tony

Tenby

iTrader: (1)

gunk and jet wash mine.

AndyC_772

iTrader: (2)

Ask SwissTony - the expert

172sport

iTrader: (6)

Gunk is just very expensive water soluble degreaser which you can buy at any motor factors.

SwissTony

iTrader: (19)

It is all covered here

Polished Swiss

scoobymyster

Ok guys so I need to buy some gunk and treat myself to a steamer.
Thanks to everyone who's advised me.

Pavlo

Personally I would use just low pressure water from a hose or watering can, which is much less likely to affect any electrical sensors (some are not as well sealed as you might think) and let the detergent, time and a soft paintbrush do the work.

For really stubborn stained primer, you can go as far as using t-cut with a rag soaked in strong detergent, use at your own risk.

I use silicone grease spray to finish and protect.

Rich @ PB

iTrader: (3)

There really isn't any need for a steamer if you haven't already got one; the method laid out in this link will deliver exactly the same results and only requires a decent degreaser like P21S Total Auto Wash, a detailing brush, a low pressure water source and a good all surface dressing like 303 Aerospace Protectant...

Car Care Advice - Engine - How to safely clean and protect your engine bay