Cleaning Engines?

[LadyJustin]

I would like to ultra-clean the engine of my '84 318i to enter it in a "show and shine". Any tricks you can advise me about? I'm amazed at how clean cars are at shows. The task before me seems daunting.

 

[Big Daddy]

It takes a lot of work and time. The best method is to use an oil & grease cleaner like the one sold by Girot's Garage They have a detailers handbook as well.

 

[epj3]

I've used this engine and shop degreaser stuff that comes in a purple bottle - not sure what it's called, and it's a little expensive, but it works awesome.... I just haven't done it to my current car yet

 

[LadyJustin]

I was thinking ..... If I start out with an engine degreaser then high pressure hot steam clean at a car wash, should I cover/protect anything other than the distributor? Is this even an acceptable method? Seems to be alot of wiring harnesses in the engine compartment, so I don't know if this is the best way to start my cleaning project.

Eric ..... if you remember the name of the purple stuff let me know.

 

[Big Daddy]

I would not use a high perssure system as it could force mostiure into places you do not want it. There are too many electrical and other sensitive things under the hood.

 

[epj3]

Plus, an '84's plastic bits are so brittle, they would just wash away.