truth about cleaning engine compartment

[ironman2712]

hello again, yesterday i poped up the hood in my cheroo, and i ooked at this 20 years old mess-entire compartment is covered with all this dirt sh.., -oil, dust, sand,and everything else you can imagine. That gave an idea(a mission)-wash it off, with some chemical staff and pressure rinse---any of you has ever done that before????????????????is it safe for wiring and electrical circuits????????????????please advise

[AlohaBra]

I have washed off the engine. I do not recommend pressure washing. Stay away from the electronics. You might have to dry the ignition...dist. cap and plug wires etc. Hand wipe the greasy areas with a rag and brakekleen.

[Saudade]

I also would not use high pressure in the engine compartment. Disconnect the TPS and IAC and cover them with a plastic bag. Spay some WD-40 in the connectors before you plug them back in. Also be gentle around your AC clutch (if you have one) and your alt.

I do this regularly. Since it's my DD it doesn't get too bad here in SoCal. I have a shop vac that has a blower mode. Once I'm done washing it, I fire it up and use the vac with the concentrator to blow as much water off as I can.

[dugg365]

yes WD-40 is good for water dispersant. like the other posts have said, avoid spraying the electronics. i have done mine 3 times at a carwash that allowed it. and once at home with the hose. it took that many times because i did not use any chemicals, just straight water. gunk foamy engine brite is a pretty good de-greaser, also simple green. although i have not used them on this vehicle.