Cleaning Engine Compartment

[Ski]

Okay, I've got another stupid question. And yes, I tried searching but must not have hit the right combination of words.

The folks on this forum advise against using a high pressure wash in the engine compartment because of the risk of creating a COPS problem. I understand, no water in the part. My question is, what's the solution if you want to clean the engine compartment?

And, thanks to Julie, my Borla's are on the way, the CAI is here and my install tech is lined up. To quote my southern friends - YEE HAW!!!

[Nicky-The-Squid]

Re: Cleaning Engine Compartment

Hi John,
I know it is an 02 and you haven't had it very long. But how dirty is the engine compartment? It is easy to KEEP clean by spraying what ever on a rag and wiping it down. I would try to not spray the engine directly because, again, a spray can migrate into electronics. But if you are starting with something real dirty I bow to someone with experience in that department.

[FUN X 3]

Re: Cleaning Engine Compartment

Swiffer to remove surface dust, then damp sponge with diluted cleaner like Fantastic or Windex.

[bwlewis]

Re: Cleaning Engine Compartment

John, most mecahnics will tell you to never use high pressure water on any new Ford engine except the diesel. Other manufacturers apparently OK. The ones I have talked to advise it really causes problems with the C.O.P.s

[5bird7]

Re: Cleaning Engine Compartment

The problem with searching here, Ski, is that we've tried to keep everyone on top of keeping their engines clean so it's not as bad as some you might run across.
plus, you should hear my comments when someone does raise their hood at an event and it's "DIRTY"! Some know not to raise that hood in the presence of other owners.
So, no, I don't know what product you would use to clean up a really dirty engine and get in all those nooks and cranny's.
I cringe if I haven't cleaned up under the hood in 6 months time, knowing that it's going to take some extra effort to get the dirt out now!

[Guest]

Re: Cleaning Engine Compartment

John, it's all good advice in response to your question. I think the key theme here is to avoid the spraying, and as said, use a rag to clean the exact areas which are dirty. It may take time, but it's worth it and you are in control. From owning old Mustangs in my past, for any painted metal surfaces, it's wise to go to a reputable auto paint supply store and pick up a general purpose solvent/cleaner like Proform PF600. It won't damage your paint, yet it will clean the area amazingly well (but only metal surfaces !!). Remember, a lot of your surface under the hood is plastic, and you really should just use a mild detergent with warm water to clean. Other solvents could cloud and damage your plastic and rubber finishes.

Following these steps on a warm, Friday night with a few of your favourite beverages is utopia to me. Can you tell that Winter is getting to me???

[My Raven]

Re: Cleaning Engine Compartment

Swiffer to remove surface dust, then damp sponge with diluted cleaner like Fantastic or Windex.

DITTO!

[2DRBRD]

Re: Cleaning Engine Compartment

Using a hand spray bottle with a mixture of "Simple Green" and water is a safe and easy way to clean underhood, engine, and wheel wells. Then wipe clean and dry with a towel or rag.

[scoops]

Re: Cleaning Engine Compartment

the spray bottle is a good idea. I usually pre-rinse, spray cleaner, wipe, and then rinse off - always using the MIST pattern on the hose nozzle.