Mark '98 Targa

I plan on cleaning my engine and engine compartment soon. What solvents or other cleaning products are best to use on the different surfaces to get them clean but not damage them? I would think that one would use something different on metal unpainted surfaces, metal painted surfaces, and plastics and hoses.

Thanks, Mark

amfp

I use diluted P-21 spray, and for stubborn areas Wurth Degreaser. Here is a excellent URL for detailed info:
<a href="http://www.carcareonline.com/clean_engines.html" target="_blank">http://www.carcareonline.com/clean_engines.html</a>

BradB

My favorite product is Eimann Fabrik All Purpose Cleaner. It's an alkaline based product that will not harm your paint or hoses and is also safe for wheels and tires and a myriad of other uses. I buy it by the gallon from Classic Motoring Accessories.

As a wheel cleaner it has replaced P21S and other brands as my favorite.

<a href="http://www.properautocare.com/hi-c32.html" target="_blank">Eimann Fabrik All Purpose Cleaner</a>
<img src="graemlins/roflmao.gif" border="0" alt="[hiha]" />

Pete Lech

I have used Simple Green for a number of years. I keep several spray bottles with various dilutions around in the garage. I use 1:3 for really bad areas. For light dirt, 1:10 or even less is plenty. Bag the air intake, and be careful not to spray into the fan center, as the alternator resides there. Let it soak in and use a Jet-X or equivalent with a wand that lets you get into tight places to rinse away the grime. After that, it's just a bucket of mild Simple Green, elbow grease and a lint-free cloth. Griot's Rubber and Vinyl Dressing actually makes the gold anodized parts look nice after you are done cleaning.

There is a wire around the engine cover latch pull cable that likes to stab the unawares.

Have fun.

Mark '98 Targa

Thanks to all for your help. Mark