tips on cleaning the engine bay

I remember back in the day when I had my 89GT. I would spray tire shine all over the engine, then close the hood and let it run for about 10 minutes to burn it off the places its not needed. Probably not a good idea but I remember doing it:shrug: I think it used to look ok after.
 
Back when mine was 'normal' I used to use Simple Green diluted a little bit, scrubbed in with a brush where needed, and hosed off. That's all. Any kind of those degreasers will work well and the process is basically the same. You can break out the heavy bristle brushes, toothbrushes, etc. too. Some parts are stained with oil and crap and the best way to really make the part look new is to paint it to match what an OEM color would look like...if that's what you're going for.

Dave, that cracks me up-normal:lol: that's a good way of putting it. I quess we are abnormal now:rlaugh: