Engine bay cleaning question?

[Seal_LCR]

What does everyone use to clean there bay?

I've got a Pcv leaking ad have ordered all the pipes in silicone and what to clean the bay so a) it looks abit better and b) I can see any future leaks

Not looking for show and shine but cleaner would be nice

 

[Raks]

Iam looking to do same myself.

A lot of people are saying just go halfords get engine degreaser and then rinse of with water. Spray a bit of back to black spray where required and job done.

Only thing Iam worried about is what electrical parts to cover apart from obvious like coil packs, alternator and battery.

 

[Seal_LCR]

Leave the car running and do it warm

 

[mk4 cupra]

Leave the car running and do it warm

1+

Always have a warm running engine when about to use water in the engine bay then leve it running while it drys out

 

[n_d_fox]

I use Megs APC (diluted 4:1) and a range of detail brushes.

If there is anything i think / consider to be at risk i'll cover it with cling film to protect it from moisture but generally with modern engines this isnt a problem.

Cover everything with the APC and work in with the brushes - i dont have the engine running at this point as i dont want a brush or cloth getting snagged by a moving belt etc. Its common sense to avoid these areas but i'd rather be safe than sorry.

Once everything has been soaked in APC and cleaned i start the engine and rinse with the jet wash - not directing the jet of water directly at the engine though.

Once rinsed i'll remove any cling film and shut the bonnet and leave the engine running for 10-15 minutes. Then open the bonnet, shut off the engine and dry up any remaining water.

Once its all clean and dry i apply Chemical Guys bare bones to everything then shut the bonnet and let it soak in with the heat of the engine.

After a few hours (generally at the later stages of a detail) i'll pop the bonnet and wipe everthing over with a MF cloth.

Heres my old vRS

and my FR

hth, Nige

 

[butler2.8i]

I use APC sprayed over engine bay work any stubborn bits with a soft brush and then rince with a pressure washer or hose pipe. Run engine before as guys have already said as it helps soften the dirt and running after helps dry eveything out.

Or see above, top class answer Nige matey

 

[Seal_LCR]

Thanks guys that sounds like what I'm gonna be doing later this week then

 

[mikeypur]

I tend to use 303 aerospace protectant on most of my engine bay, spray on, then wipe off with a mf cloth!

 

[Raks]

Yep giving it ago once it stops raining

 

[Dione J]

What parts are best to cover up when hitting it with the jet wash?

 

[n_d_fox]

Dione - I dont cover anything in my bay but you want to avoid getting water on any exposed witing or sensors. Also try to avoid direct contact with the alternator and belts.

As mentioned its best to run the engine when rinsing and leave it running for around 10 minutes afterwards to ensure there is no water ingress.

 

[Deleted member 77040]

steam cleaner and a selection of detailing brushes

 

[Seal_LCR]

I need to do this abit more as I give up last time as it rained lol