Tips on detailing under the hood?

[Sean 96 McViper]

Does anyone have any good tips on making the engine and surrounding area look better than new? Going to a car show on Sunday and want her to be looking good...

Thanks in advance for all the great advice, you guys never let me down.

-Sean

BTW. Last week I asked about scratch remover and got a lot of great advice. I ended up getting Blue Coral's stuff in a tube and it works great! (Thanks Matt)

 

[JonB]

I dont do car shows or cruises, but I like keeping the motor clean. I use WINDEX or Glass-Plus type cleaners on just about everything underhood. No residue. Few streaks. Works on paint, plastic, rubber, vinyl......even the wires.

Before I begin I use compressed air (and goggles) to blast away dust/debris in I/M underneath, and nooks/crannies.

I have even used STP "Steam Shine" on the rubber stuff, which is a post-steam-clean (NEVER!)product that sprays on and dries semi-gloss on most underhood parts. This makes them easier to wipe down again later......acts like a clear-coat.