What do I need to cover for cleaning the engine bay?

[01GTStang11]

Well, as you can see in the picture below the previous owner took no time cleaning the engine bay. So Before I do it myself I am needing some advice on what to cover with a trash bag or whatever would work the best before I ruin my electrical system. Also what's your guys favorite engine degreaser.

I plan on following steps somewhat like theses.
How to Detail an Engine Bay | eHow.com

Maybe take my photo and paint over it, to point out the spots would help out a alot

View attachment 244854

 

[GettinThere]

I've never covered anything when cleaning the engine bay. Imho, the key is to spray full-strength Simple Green or some other degreaser, then use LOW pressure water (shower setting) to rinse off. Use a leaf blower or compressed air to dry off the engine while it is idleing. Then take it out for a 15 minute spin to insure it's dry. I've had no issues or problems with this method for years.

 

[pilks]

On my 98 gt I cover the coil packs (i think thats what there called) I just use a plastic bag and cover them loosely. I Personally use Purple Power, not sure if its any better than anything else out there. I also run my car for about 5 min to get things a bit warmer than just sitting there.

 

[scupking]

Covered my alt and air intake then sprayed down with simple green, let sit for a few minutes then sprayed down.

 

[Brute03]

I ALWAYS get water down in the plug wells whenever i wash the engine so i don't bother anymore

 

[CatmanJJ]

If you have a 4v def cover the coil covers really well, any moisture that gets into them and you can f up your COP and spark plugs.

 

[40oz]

If you have a 4v def cover the coil covers really well, any moisture that gets into them and you can f up your COP and spark plugs.

maybe they are different on the 4v engines, but water doesn't do squat to the 2v coils. Oil, now, that will cause a short.

 

[pilks]

Oh and i also use my air compressor to get some of the water out of areas around the intake manifold etc.

 

[streethorse]

You cant clean the engine completly with water.....
You need to do some hand cleaning with rags and a toothbrush.
Being lazy leads to water in the spark pug wells and electric conectors.

 

[mazen189]

i just cover the alternator, filter and fuse box. Sprayed degreaser, then just used medium pressure. But i didnt directly spray at my coils. So, i guess that made the difference.