I went to refill my wiper fluid and noticed salt and grime depositing under the hood; on the engine cover, strut bar, etc.. Any suggestions on how to clean this out nicely without frying my box?

 

interesting question, i would like to know too.....

 

One thing that I do is use Mr. Clean Auto Dry. I use the ionized/filtered water setting. The water comes out almost like a mist and is just enough to wash away most of the salt and dirt. Use a towel to wipe anything that won't rinse away.

 

I wipe off with a damp rag to get the dirt off then shine with any plastic safe shining product

 

just wipe it down...

if you really want to go crazy,...simple green and a hose....or even pressure wash it

 

What Super said, minus the pressure washer. DONT FORCE WATER INTO AREAS IT DOEST BELONG. Simple Green and a brush will do just fine.

 

Tire cleaning foam. Lazy man's engine cleaner.

For the painted areas, use Meguiar's Quik Detailer.

 

What ORNGKR8 said but also cover up all spark plugs before doing that and use a toothbrush to get around the plugs. Don't drive it for about 1 to 2 days to let dry, preferably in really good sunlight or guarage. It's better to do it during the weekend.

 

yep. mist some simple green on and wipe everything w/ a sponge. then mist everything down with the hose. dry. and for the final touch spray a shop towel w/ a generous amount of WD40 and wipe every plastic and rubber part you can reach. your engine will look brand new.

WD40 is the car detailers secret for engines, wheel wells, anything under the car. it does NOT attract dirt like some would think. i live in dusty/sandy phoenix and my engine bay looks like the day i bought it. i've used it on cars for over 20 years and have yet to see any side effects like you do w/ armor all or others.

 

simple green and a hose work great for me