Cleaning the engine compartment

[Sean80]

What is the best way to clean under the hood? Would compressed air be a good idea or no?

[breakfasteatre]

cover electrical components with tinfoil, like connectors and such
if you have a cold air intake, cover filter

spray entire engine bay with simple green or some other type of cleaner, scrub with brush if needed, rinse with water from hose. Dont use pressure washer, dont use spray nozzle either, just water flowing out of hose


another way would be wd40 and a toothbrush

[Fobio]

What is the best way to clean under the hood? Would compressed air be a good idea or no?

compressed air needs to be used judiciously...if you asked generally, should compressed air be used to clean the engine bay, I'd say no...

but for those who have a steady hand and know where to use and not use compressed air, it'd be fine...

a couple things that can easily be damaged by compressed air: air filter (surprised?) and possible, your TMIC fins...

good luck.

[-cj-]

I just wrap my ECU and air filter with plastic shopping bags and go to town with a hose. I'm sure compressed air in certain places, near the spark plug wells to remove debris could be beneficial.

[horto]

qew mazda detailing deal w/ engine shampoo? :D

[breakfasteatre]

qew mazda detailing deal w/ engine shampoo? :D

last time i was at a local dealer, they were going to town with a pressure washer on the engine bay

no thanks

[Sean80]

last time i was at a local dealer, they were going to town with a pressure washer on the engine bay

no thanks

I've seen that too, it can't be too good for it. They must do it on the used cars that are sitting on their lots to make it all nice and clean. I'd rather do it myself because I care about my car lol.

[horto]

wish me luck then

[standsideways]

I've seen that too, it can't be too good for it. They must do it on the used cars that are sitting on their lots to make it all nice and clean. I'd rather do it myself because I care about my car lol.

Our detailing center where i work hasnt ever caused water damage to an engine since ive worked there.

And there going all day everyday..

Cover alternator and short ram filter(if you have one) with plastic bags(who uses tinfoil?! Hah)

Spray engine shampoo liberally over entire engine bay, let soak for 10 mins, pressure wash off, then let the engine run for 5 or 10 minutes with the hood open.

Thats what i do EVERY OTHER OIL CHANGE and ive never had a problem.