i didnt cover anything when i cleaned my engine bay to be completely honest, i just use engine foam cleaner and scrubbed and sprayed, didnt have a problem

 

I think mainly avoid the air filter and the amp for safe measures, cover them with some baggies. I hear mequires has engine clean and engine shine or something?

 

i bought some gunk a while ago, just waiting till spring to use it.

is that a good brand, or it doesnt really matter.

the stuff smells narley

 

Yeah, thats what I did too- although my cars all have cone filters that are exposed, and I just don't trust myself not to spray it by accident (the engine has too many odd curves and nooks that can catch the water stream and reflect it).

 

one question that nobody asked.

how long should you let it sit b4 you start it, and should you leave the hood open while it dries???

 

I was always told that as soon as your done cleaning and rinse it down...start the car...then once I know everything in the engine is working fine I close the hood and just let it run for like 10 min....It just helps the dying process and keeps down on water spots.

 

I also start the car shortly after washing it, and let it run until its warmed up. I leave the hood cracked a bit to let some of the hot, humid air vent- but still keep most of the heat in.

There are a lot of places where water can sit where its not just going to evaporate on its own in an hour or so.

 

Very helpful tips. Thanks guys.