Cleaning Engine (external)
 

99 ML 320 with just over 200K miles. I'm going to replace plugs and ignition wires this weekend. I'd like to clean the engine before I start. It would make the job a little less messy and will help me avoid contaminating the end of a new plug with dirt / grease as I maneuver it into position to screw it into the block.

I haven't cleaned an engine since high school (class of 1978). Back in the day, you just put aluminum foil over the distributor cap (and maybe the coil) and emptied a couple of cans of Gunk onto the engine and blasted everything with a garden hose. What do I need to be concerned about if I try to clean this "modern" engine?

Any particular product or procedure you recommend?

Cleaning Engine
 

I cover the battery (so I don't short it out) and do not spray water FORCEFULLY on top of the fuse box or other electrical connections. I even use a pressure washer! I do this twice a year for each car and then spray Amour All over everything to make everything look new. Works pretty well!

Oh, I forgot.

Gunk is fine but I use a cleaner from COSTCO called Oil Eater.

www.oileater.com. A lot cheaper too than Gunk!

Thanks, Bigdog!

I also just came across the engine compartment detailing article in the detailing DIY section. Good info there.

http://www.peachparts.com/diy/detailing/detailing.php?location=25

When I was at the tech session this past weekend, one of the techs spayed on brake cleaner with a hand pump thing (low pressure). it worked great. Powered through all the grease/dirt and evaporated with in a minute. Stunk like hell because of the fumes but it worked very well.