Hello Guys I want to clean my engine bay like this one in the picture, I just wanted to know what needs to be covered before washing the engine with water, or is there another alternative to water that will be just as effective. I have a BMW e92 coupe ; if you can circle the areas that need to be covered with a Plastic bag, aluminum foil or saran wrap. PLEASE let me know ASAP I just got the valve cover gasket changed and need the excess oil out of my engine as it is smoking. Thank you.
e92.jpg
Some degreaser on the oil and careful low pressure water would work. Keep away from any electrical connectors etc.
Nothing needs to be wrapped, covered, or protected above and beyond what is already in place from the factory. In some rare cases the electrical distribution box (aka fuse box) may have a warning sign to keep dry. GM does this on some vehicles. Other manufacturers just add the cost of a rubber seal to the fuse box top.
The burning/white smoke will go away after a couple miles unless its still leaking.
As long as you aren't completely flooding the compartment with water, you will be fine. You might hear some belt squealing when you first start the engine up but it will stop after a min or two.
You can use full strength simple green without damage to components, paint, etc. If you're dealng with small areas that are dirty, you can follow up by washing it down with a water spray bottle otherwise misting with a hose is just fine. WD-40 also works as a great cleaner, especially on engine parts. If you want a "showroom shine" on the engine (which personally I'm not a fan of) look into WATER based engine dressing since it will minimize on the stickiness and attract less dirt.
Thank you guys I will be cleaning with simple green tomorrow and misting water - fingers crossed!
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