My engine compartments don't get overly dirty. My 03 hardly sees any dirt cause I don't drive it much anymore. The 05 I use some old rags and simple green or quick detail spray and wipe everything down really good. I also take the air compressor and blow out all of the sand that collects on top of the cooling fan shroud and any leaves that are stuck around the cowl.

 

i bought 2 cans of black magic degreaser + shine, sprayed EVERYTHING down, then took a small wire brush and scrubbed everything down real good, then i let it sit for about 30 min, then wiped it all down. Then i sprayed another can and let it sit for another 30 min then hosed it off and then i let the engine idle until it stopped steaming. Theres still a few nooks and crannies i wasnt able to get to, but it looks ALOT better now.

 

you should have taken some before and after pics for us!!!

 

no before pics

 

afters?

 

when the sun comes up ill take some, and i'll be taking pics of the installation of my new downpipe

 

I never start the car up right after I wash under the hood, I usually leave the hood popped up and let the sun dry the car for an hour before I dropped the hood and even think about starting it up...

 

i let mine sit for a little bit b4 i started it.

as long as you cover the electrical and air stuff you should be ok.

i think the real problems come from spraying the engine while its hot.
thats what most ppl should be weary of.

 

Cold water + hot block = fail.