Engine bay cleaning
 

In today's cars, is it safe to throw open the hood and just shoot a hose at the engine? My Cobalt's engine bay is full of salt and I want to clean it come the Spring, but just want to be sure hosing the engine down won't cause any damage to anything else under the hood.

do it when the block is cool or cold, not after you just ran the engine. thermal properties of metals still apply today. you know that pesky heating and cooling of metals that causes cracking and fatigue... also find a good engine cleaner from pep boys.. the one thing i cant seem to find a way of avioding other than by plain luck is keeping an aluminum block from pitting and oxidizing if anyone else has tips please share

use your hands and simple green

+1 on making sure the block is cool. Most electronic clips have rubber weather proofing, however I personally would not hose the engine. Get a rag and cleaner and take your time.

I usually try and stay clear of directly soaking the alternator and distributor (if applicable)

Simply green and a little bit of water should do it. Cover your alternator, distributor and brake resorvior with aluminum foil and avoid direct water soaking to them. :nod:

:nod: X2