Hey, Im mostly on g35driver, but they've proven no help on my question.

I need to know what components i need to cover up when washing down my engine, all i found was the intake/filter. Any ideas

thanks

 

I do not cover anything. My intake filter is inside a protective box.

https://my350z.com/forum/2882362-post8.html

 

So really just as a precaution though, just cover the intake, but I can spray whatever i want. "/ iono im a little iffy.

 

cool, didn't realize you can spray your engine bay directly like that

 

i'm a part time detailer, I usually just cover the alternator and/or the air filter if it is exposed but whenever I do my Z, I don't even cover anything...

Ideally, you want to warm up (not hot) the engine before starting.. if it's hot outside like right now (85F).. it's ok not to. Also leaf blower is a great tool, or pressurized air.

DO NOT USE PRESSURE WASHER! Use a soft brush if you want to get into the crevices..

 

This is what I do, down to the brushes and stuff, except I use a Simple Green mixture.

I have a Popcharger, so I just wrap a towel around my filter, place a couple plastic bags [that I reuse just for this job every time] over the filter, and use a rubber band to secure it in place. I then proceed to rinse, soap, brush, rinse, dress. Like mentioned, do not use high pressure water.

 

I try to make sure the air filter and electrical connections are covered up. Almost all new cars are covering up more and more of these components so it's become more of a non-issue.

Here is my routine for your reference if you'd like help:

Someone else just asked this question on the forum so I've copied and pasted my response which outlines my engine detailing routine.

1. When doing an engine detail we recommend the engine be a little warm, so turn on the engine for about 1 – 2 minutes and then turn it off. If the vehicle has been driven or is hot from previous driving it may be too warm for an engine detail. If possible park the car in the shade or leave it in the shade as long as possible before starting.

2. When the engine is at a safe temperature you can start the process. Cover any exposed electrical components (usually there are a few electrical plugs you can cover at most) and anything else you do not want water in with aluminum foil, saran wrap or something similar. Cover any exposed air filters and intakes so they don’t flood with water.

3. Spray the engine with a light mist of water. Spray degreaser over areas with grease build-ups and other heavy deposits. Avoid spraying metals and other mechanical pieces. We recommend a 3:1 dilution of Poorboy's World Bio APC, Optimum Power Clean, Chemical Guys Grime Reaper, P21S Total Auto Wash, etc. Start spraying it low or deep in the engine and work your way up towards more easily accessible areas. Let it sit for approximately 1 - 2 minutes. If you use a stronger degreaser you may want to rinse it sooner.

4. Spray down everything to remove all the degreaser and dirt and grime with a light mist from a hose. You don't want to use high-pressure water or tons of water if possible. Some areas may need to be wiped down with a rag or with a brush to break up heavy deposits. The debris should be loose now and fall off easily, if possible don't rely on pressure from the hose to break up the debris.

5. Now I spot treat any areas that didn't get clean. I'll use an old rag and spray some degreaser on it and clean up any areas I see that need a light touch up. Don't forget to clean the hood that has been flipped up. After your are done spot treating tough stains rinse the engine bay down again with a light mist.

6. Make sure you have removed the tin foil or saran wrap and all other products used in the detail from the engine bay. Start the engine and let is run for at least 1 – 2 minutes to help dry some of the water. Be careful touching the vehicle after because it can get hot fast. Then finish drying anything that may need it.

7. Now I recommend treating all the (non-mechanical) vinyl, plastic and rubber pieces with a protectant such as the 303 Aerospace Protectant. Apply this to a cloth and wipe down anything that’s rubber, vinyl and plastic that’s non-mechanical. This will help prevent premature fading and keep the surface looking great. The 303 Protectant has a low gloss matte finish that looks great and helps prevent dust build up. Additionally if you have any exposed metal you can polish them now. We really like the deep polishing power of the P21S Finish Restorer. You can also apply a sealant to any painted areas in the engine bay or the under side of the hood where the paint is exposed.

8. Step back and admire a clean and sharp looking engine bay.

If you have any questions about this process please let me know.

Greg @ Detailed Image

 

... awesome!