I was trying to find some info on engine cleaning. I used to have a 99 prelude with the H22a. I cleaned the engine really well but i ended up getting water in the engine causing my ignition system to fail. I had to replace all plugs, wires, and the cap. About $300 :/

I know have a 04 TL auto and i really wanna clean the engine but i definitely do not want to damage anything. I also want to remove all the plastic pieces to throughly clean under everything. So what should i cover up? Or what should i not directly spray water on?

Just any suggestions from people who have cleaned a 3g TL's engine would be great! Including product selection.

THANKS!!

Oh and i read this, didnt really answer my question. Its helpful though.

http://www.detailedimage.com/Ask-a-P...ur-engine-bay/

 

Protection of Electrical Components

The most important electrical components are sealed ‘water resistant’, that is to say against low pressure, water splashing encountered in the course of daily driving conditions. As long as you avoid directing a strong stream of water (or a pressure washer at close range) directly into these components, you will be fine.
You need to cover various parts prior to using any cleaning products, sprays (water deterrent, formula 40(WD-40)) or water.

• Alternator
• Alarm Housing
• Intercooler
• Battery terminals (if not covered already)
• Induction kit cone (if you have one)
• Coil packs
• Electronic control units (ECU)
• On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port
• Air intake systems (exposed air filters) can be covered with plastic wrap and a rubber band
• Avoid getting water in the spark plug recesses

Notes:1. This is not an exhaustive list, nor is it marque specific, if in doubt use a water repellent (WD-40) and exercise common sense
2. Use cling-film and then tin foil for the alternator, alarm housing etc as the foil is easier to mould and has greater protection properties. I suggest you use a plastic bag for the induction kit and just wrap it tight over the end to stop any water ingress.
3. For the intercooler the best way to cover is to get a flat sheet of cardboard and just cut it to size so it fits and covers the fins. Cardboard will normally protect the fins for the duration of the washing. It will get soaked so discard after the wash.
4. If you are uncertain of how to proceed on something not included here; talk with somebody who has marque /model /year specific knowledge.

 

I always use some Zep Citrus Cleaner (buy it by gallon at home depot)...Diluted 4:1 with distilled water and then protect it with 303 aerospace protectant...Always works like a champ...

I always cover the alternator when possible with a gallon baggie...

 

Here's a write up from my engine detail not too long ago. Hope it helps and let me know if you have any questions.

https://acurazine.com/forums/1-2g-mdx-2001-2013-166/detailed-my-mdx-engine-bay-808802/

 

You need to cover any electrical components and exposed air filters. I always cover the alternator with a grocery bag. Never warm up the engine.

Steps I used to clean the engine:
- Obviously cover any electrical components
- Rinse the engine compartment and hood
- Use some type of degreaser (I use Adam's All Purpose Cleaner)
- Use a brush to scrap the dirt away, then rinse
- I let it air dry, if you want dress it up with some vinyl dresser

Here's mine:

Before






After

 

I have nothing against those that spray down their engine bay, but I never had the balls to do it. All I've done is use a microfiber towel and dip it into the same soap that I use to wash the car. I would wipe down all the dirt. For the tough grimes, a window cleaner removes them pretty well. I usually never have any trouble with having to scrub because I clean my engine bay monthly.

After that, I use Mother's Back to Black for the REALLY hard stains on the trim. Then I finalize everything with 303 Aerospace Protectant. All of this is done with only a couple of microfiber towels. Here's my engine bay at 60k miles

 

^That looks amazing

 

Love the paint job. Awesome looking engine bay.

 

damn look at how clean that engine bay is!

 

Do you have pics what to cover ? To be honest, I don't know a lot about location in the engine.

 

^ I would like to know the same thing :-/

 

+1

 

You most definitely want to cover this (Alternator) with aluminum foil.