Under the hood cleaning

[easybake]

Hey guys, when purchasing my car i was informed that the previous owner used it as a work truck on their farm. so looking around under the hood i see tons of dirt buildup, and i was wondering whats the best way to attack this problem. i am kinda ocd about cleaning, and i like everythig super clean. and this is going to be my new project.

i was wondering if i should just spray is down with some engine cleaner, and then power wash it or what other options do i have?

 

[DaRosa218]

Here is a great Topic already started about engine cleaning with good tips and warnings

http://www.tahoeyukonforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5609

 

[JonnyTahoe]

Find a self serve car wash with the warmest water possible and blast away, I dont like the smell of degreaser so I dont use it anymore.

 

[M3PO]

I use simple green, I do not like the harsh degreasers, but sometimes you need them. Also be careful using too much pressure if you are using a pressure washer/carwash.

 

[blueflamed03]

Simple Green as well....

 

[Backinblack]

I'm with them...Simple green has been my go-to tough cleaner/degreaser for years.

 

[easybake]

what are your thoughts on spray it down with simple green then power washing it?

 

[Backinblack]

what are your thoughts on spray it down with simple green then power washing it?

Check out the highlighted thread above for some precautions. I'm not a huge fan of power-washing under the hood. I like to pre-soak with the simple green, scrub down anywhere that may need it, gentle rinse being mindful of electrical components, and then dry and dress the plastics as needed.

 

[M3PO]

Check out the highlighted thread above for some precautions. I'm not a huge fan of power-washing under the hood. I like to pre-soak with the simple green, scrub down anywhere that may need it, gentle rinse being mindful of electrical components, and then dry and dress the plastics as needed.

+1, try using simple green, a soft brush (while watching things like seals, and a use a garden hose with a nozzle sparingly. If that doesn't get it clean, repeat; I'd rather take some time, than to screw things up. If the dirt and gunk are really bad, its just going to take time. If the previous owner just has mud and dirt, than that should mostly flush away with water; its just going to require you to get really dirty and get underneath there and clear out all the pockets.
Take before and after pics, brag a little when you are done

 

[04SS99Denali]

ive used the simple green one before its pretty easy. go for a 10 minute drive and come back let it sit for like 5 minutes then hose it off. spray it down with a good ammount of simple green. let it sit for 10 mins then spray it down with the hose again. turn it on for a minute or so so the water drys off. then cover the engine bay with tire foam or anything to shine it up. wipe it off and fix the little spots and it comes out brand new