Thanks to you guys I have fixed most of my 91 Accord's bugs.
I've cleaned grounds, swapped out sensors, installed new emissions valves, etc. But, I am still afraid to clean the motor for fear of getting some electrical component wet that doesn't like it.
Usually powerwashing the motor is a ritual for any used car I acquire, but not this one! Dry and dirty all the way.

 

I never read of any problems being caused by a dirty engine bay.

If you want to clean it, put a plastic bag over the distributor and the alternator. Don't spray the radiator fins, because you will bend them and prevent air flow.

 

Keeping adequate distance from spray nozzle to engine parts is also essential. I would estimate at least 18-24 inches, depending on pressure rating of your pressure washer. Conservative is the approach required.

I like to soften up w/ spray on cleaner before washing.

Also immediately start and allow to run till fully warm to dry off engine.

good luck

 

Quoted for truth! Leave the engine bay dirty.

 

When it comes time to work on them; starter, valve cover, alternator, etc, it is nice to have a reasonably clean engine. Also when you do work it's hard to keep dirt out of parts if the engine is dusty/dirty.

I'm no Felix Unger, but I do like reasonable cleanliness for above reasons.

good luck

 

My philosophy is simple:

• If it ain't broke, don't fix it or clean it.
• If it's broke, clean it first, then fix it.

 

my approach.

 

• If it ain't broke, don't fix it or clean it.
• also my approach

 

Everythings running good, dirty motor and all.

 

If you leave it dirty, until you have to work on it, it will be harder to clean. Leaks are also harder to find on a grimy engine. I spray my engine off at the car wash all the time, and don't cover anything. I wash the outside, while the engine cools, then open the hood and go at it. I try not to spray directly at electrical components, but never bother to cover anything. Never had to replace alternator, or any other electrical parts, in 12 years with the 92 Accord, and 10 years and counting with the 03. By the time I got home from the car wash, all the water was pretty much dried up. The electrical connections on these cars are pretty good, and usually packed with grease, so even if you were to dunk them under water, they would probably not get water inside. The 96 Chevy truck I had didn't have the best looking wiring, and I never got up the nerve to try the car wash on that engine bay. IMO, it all depends on the condition of the wiring etc. under the hood.