What is the best/safest way to clean an engine?
 

Mine has the original dirt, but I'd like to clean it up. I wasn't sure if I could safely pressure wash it at the local car wash and not get the ignition wet or crack a hot metal surface, etc, etc. Cheers! Chris

I would do it at home on a cool engine and not use tons of water.

I spray simple green on mine, let it soak and then just spray off with a hose. Just don't spray SG on the alternator and be careful where you spray the hose up top. Underneath you can get vicious with both. I'll even use a power sprayer underneath.

Unless you are fixing a problem, such as a major oil leak, I'd skip washing the engine. Too many electrical connectors, components, and wire harnesses, and if the engine is at running temperature there is thermal stress and the resulting steam to consider. Particularly with a high pressure sprayer. A little dirt on the outside of the engine won't hurt it, but getting water in the wrong place could.

Doesn't keeping the engine and parts clean help keep the motor cooler and better running? I always heard that. I use a bucket of hot water, an old rag and some elbow grease to just wipe it down. First time with all that shmootz is a pain with emptying the bucket a few times, but after that, about every 2 months I give it a fresh wipe down while washing the car. Have never used anything to spray it...just time, effort and energy wiping it.

When the buyer of my first one came over to look...he asked to see it and was floored at how clean it was. I was a proud papa at tht moment. Even though you don't see it doesn't mean it shouldn't be clean!

I would say off the car