I've noticed a few threads on cleaning engines, what to use etc. but can't find any "For dummies" style ones that I need - Fed up with looking like a complete grease monkey through so much as touching anything in the engine bay. Can't go on like this.
Don't think mine has ever been cleaned, I've certainly never done it. I have gunk, and a normal garden hose with a gun where I can adjust to fine spray or thin more high pressure jet, or anything inbetween. Don't really want to use pressure washer or anthing like that. Want to go old school and gentle.
I'm understanding something like - cover distributor cap and alternator with plastic bags or clingflim or foil, disconnect battery (take it out?) then spray on gunk, let it soak for a short while, then hose off with mist spray setting on gun. What about where the spark plugs are, for example?
Also, I want to do the area where the wiper motor is etc - take the full width black plastic cover off and do the shelf where these sit. Cover the motor etc. with bags too?
I think I'm on the right track of thinking, but never done this before, don't want to botch anything up so car doesn't start or anything. Should I run engine when spraying gunk off with hose? You know, that kind of thing. Should car be on stands so underside can be accessed, like bottom of sump etc. or just crawl underneath and aim spray?
Are there any threads on this I've missed, or any advice you can give me? Bear in mind I've never done this before. My engine is getting disgracefully dirty, and I want to clean it up to check for oil leaks etc. Not to bothered for now about high level detailing or anything, just want it looking honest.
Cheers.