I did some searching around and found some general tips - but I am looking for some of the more specifics and tips that people might have. Also, what areas of the engine need to be protected from water before you begin?

 

My tools are a stiff toothbrush, Gunk brand engine brite, and .99 cent Walmart squeeze bottle. No sense taking a water hose to it and messing something up! A little baking sode too for the battery if it corrodes...

 

I use Gunk Foaming Engine Cleaner to do my engine when it gets really dirty. I completely remove the battery, and spray away. Water isn't going to hurt anything in the engine bay as long as your wiring/plugs, etc are all sealed correctly. I spray it, let it sit, rinse it, and usually repeat a few times depending on how dirty it is. I found that a small wheel/tire brush works great on the tough spots that need a good scrubbing. I dry what I can with a towel and I let it air dry for most of the day just to ensure that everything is completely dry. Then for some shine at the shows I use meguiars tire shine (spray can kind so it's easier to just spray the areas that you want to get).

 

^Oh yeah, the key is to do this while the motor is warm! And I use ArmorAll wipes for the tubes/rubber/etc etc...

 

Hmmm.. well the best way to detail your engine is to always keep it clean. I just wipe mines down everytime i wash/wax my car and hit all the rubber parts with a little "303 Aerospace Protectant" and wax everything that shines... If you do this on a regular basis then you wont have to worry bout using any type of chemicals to dissolve the dirt/grime off.

 

Below is where I am at right now with my detailing - the valve cover looks nice, but there is still some dust and what not around on hoses and on the paint. However, is the brass (i.e. cruse control cap) safe to shine up a bit?

 

Quick little tip that somebody gave me when I was going to car shows alot is to use some kind of foaming tire shine under the hood, the kind that also removes the dirt and such. When it has set for a bit, just wipe everything down a bit to make sure you have no streaks or built up.