How to clean off engine?

Just wondering what to use to clean off the engine.... just soap and water? Someone said it would have to be steam cleaned?

Someone clarify this please?
Thanks.

i used some cleaning stuff in a purple bottle, but i think u can try man green...can't remember the name....but worked great....but don't let it sit too long or it'll eat away at ur paint

I dont recommend steam cleaning an engine - it does the fastest/best job, but also can ruin sensitive computers/sensors.

Never clean a hot engine - Never clean a cold engine . . . .Warm it up for 5 mins - too hot and the chemical/water will dry too fast. There are so many products @ auto parts stores you could use for engine cleaning. Simple Green, Greased Lighting, Engine Brite/Gunk, any other degreaser. I prefer a citrus degreaser I get from a detail supply company. Get yourself some brushes - assorted sizes. A pressure washer is better than a garden hose since the p/washer uses 75% less water & has the advantage or pressure - 3000+psi compared to 150psi.

1. Warm engine - 5 mins max
2. Wet under side of hood(dont get insulation wet) - spray chemical - scrub - rinse
3. (divide the engine into 4 section) Wet 1 section - spray cleaners - scrub - rinse
4. Follw that process around the whole engine bay
5. Check your work from all angles - clean any dirty spots again - you may need to go back with a toothbrush to get everything.
6. Spray WATERBASED dressing over the entire engine bay while wet - close hood - start/run engine for 10-15mins - open hood an admire or show off your work.

Dont spray chemical or water directly on electronics - use a spray bottle with water & clean carefully - dry with towel

Try not to get water in the dizzy cap or alternator. The faster you can clean it the better it is for the engine.

If your paint is in really nice condition then I recommend spraying your fenders with water & draping large towels over them. The chemicals you will be using should be strong - to very strong - enough to damage your paint.

Using any kind of solvent on your engines can take a toll on you're bearings joints etc
i suggest you take it to a professional

Ok my engine is like covered in mud and dust from this road i had to drive on when going snowboarding once (yes i took a civic to go snowboarding in)....

and ive tried the 'engine cleaner' stuff at the car wash and tried scrubbing with a sponge..the mud is like too much to just wipe clean.

is there any like...high pressure wash thats safe to use? lol...i know that sounds dumb but im open for suggestions..

If you read what I posted above, you will see that I recommended using a pressure washer only for engine cleaning. Take it to a DIY carwash, most have pressure washing equipment for engine cleaning.

hot water, brush rag and time