cleaning engine tips?

[gpk99]

Basically all I want to know is this....is there anything you need or have to cover when spray washing the engine? ON some vehicles it's a good idea to but on the VIBE...geez...everything appears to be covered up so nicely.thanks!!

[Mr. Poopypants]

I took mine to the spray off wash, left it running and sprayed it, no covering at all.

[Stang2Vibe]

I always strongly suggest to cover the alternator with a plastic bag before washing the engine compartment. My previous Pontiac that I washed religiously had the alternator go bad prematurely. I feel that it was due to the fact that I got water in the alternator so often. Other than that, everything should be safe to wash. I also strongly suggest waiting until the entire engine is cool to the touch. If it's hot, the soap and water will leave spots on the metal parts (particularly the aluminum) that are nearly impossible to remove.

[Mase]

I only wash my engine bay when the engine is cold. This is to prevent warping, cracking, etc. Normally, I use the filtered water from my Mr. Clean AutoDry attachment. It's nice and gentle plus it keeps water spots from forming. I try to keep the spray off the alternator though. Let it dry completely before starting up though. Otherwise your belt will squeal like crazy.

[Stang2Vibe]

lol, right now, my belt is squealing like crazy even when dry--but only in a certain rpm range.