A Dangerous Way To Clean An Engine Bay - A Hack Explained!

[@okhotrodder]

Everyone has their own opinions. Everyone has their own experiences. Almost every detail shop uses tire foam, and few have been shut down for improper cleaning. If it was so bad, you wouldn't have put it on your own engine. The thing people are afraid of is using water on their engine bay. Like you said, don't use the high pressure wand directly on the electrical system, and you'll be fine. Every car wash I know of uses simple green or a form of it for the engine cleaner. It's just as bad if you don't wash it off. The key is wash it off, and you won't have an issue. If people would wash their engine compartment when they washed their car, it would stay a lot cleaner. I've been a mechanic over 40 yrs and still haven't found an alternator that went out from using tire cleaner.

[@bdlii]

I’ve used the tire foam method on 4 different cars for well in excess of 50k miles and never had an issue. Sometimes I cover the alternator and sometimes I don’t. I spray off with compressed air and wipe dry. Engine looks awesome for 1-2 years. All the stuff that ‘can’ happen doesn’t happen.

[@stephenm3874]

Awesome video, thank you so much for addressing this issue. As a past mechanic I appreciate you understanding and appreciating the intricate components in the engine bay and getting past the BS and quick wins of some detailers.

[@rockalot1635]

Just bought a oldie 98 Toyota corolla today. Just watched this dude show how easy and clean an engine could get just with "any tire foam cleaner". Then I saw yours... appreciate your input...common sense...thanks

[@bobdecker2446]

A method I have used for decades: 1. Disconnect battery. 2. Wrap alternator with foil or plastic. 3. Coat everything with a good degreaser. 4. Rinse with a garden sprayer, NOT a power washer. 5. Dry with a leaf blower. 6. Let vehicle sit for an hour with hood open. Never had any problems.

[@galuhrichata6148]

Bob Decker My father taught me that too, Sir. And true, no problem...👍🏼👍🏼

[@mysticwine]

Water sprayed under the hood - not a good idea. In fact don't do it. The results may not show up for months or even years. When the water issues do materialize one will most likely not connect them to the past use of water on the engine

[@MySiGGYSAUERRR]

@@mysticwine in fact or your opinion? Because fact of the matter is, water does not damage the external parts on your engine. Common sense goes a long way.

[@BryanHannaActingReel]

Isn't degreaser bad for Rubber??

@@mysticwine that was true you wouldn't be able to drive in the rain

[@msokes9]

I am 17 years old and I'm glad that I watch your videos so I don't screw anything up in my car. Thank you for helping the people care for there car the right way.

[@suppaman12]

Your voice is a mixture of Howard stern and Ray Romano...

[@philliphausley3573]

Moreno12 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@babylove7139]

You are so right

[@Angus626]

lol

[@jasondrew6369]

...or Alan Alda

[@fm00078]

WHAT!!!? I thought it was Ray talking and Howard hand signaling. 🤭

[@danielgielchinsky6951]

Thank you for your honest and intelligent content. I was literally driving to the auto parts store to pick up tire foam. No way! I’ll get some degreaser instead. Great video.

[@charliewaters7752]

Thanks a million! I was about to use tire foam on my truck engine this weekend. But, I was hesitant...so, I searched for more videos on the subject. And found you. You now have a new sub! Thanks again!

[@MrKenfal69]

Scott as you know I have been watching your channel for a while now trying to become a better weekend warrior detailer. I have been a mechanic/technician for a majority of my life. This video made me realize you know your stuff! not only are you knowledgeable about your craft but you also have some mechanical knowledge that is rare in detailing world. just wanted let you and others know that you can get some very good info from this guy. keep it going Scott!

[@kimijonghighball9626]

He's mentioned before that he has experience in electrical motors. You can tell by his terminology.

[@saspursdynasty]

You know.(maybe .maybe not) .when you have a test you study,well thats what he did..for the sake of the video ..yes..but try asking him to give you the dynamics of the alternator ..he would FAIL..scripted..

[@autofetishdetail]

@@saspursdynasty Finally; a voice of reason and critical thinking has been applied. Amazing the naivete' that is so pervasive in the world of social media.

[@lukeskywalker1840]

I was actually going to do that after watching a video on KZbin. I'm so glad I saw this video and realize that it's not a good idea. Thank you very much for posting this information.

[@dianakenealy8573]

Holy cow I just wrote about this other video then read your comments .

[@dudechallenge8279]

I was about to do the same. Until i watch this video.

[@fredharriott962]

@@dudechallenge8279 .

[@robertteague6342]

Same here. I actually just purchased some tire foam on Amazon. Now my next question is can I use trim shine instead?

[@lukeskywalker1840]

I'll probably just get it steam cleaned in town. My engine is worth the 50 bucks or whatever they charge me

[@bcady16]

Words of wisdom. Didn’t know you knew so much about cars. Way to rock those alternator components.

[@SettiCY]

i do not think he talks too much. i actually enjoyed him talking and sharing all that information/knowledge.

[@shawnmcquade1259]

Rule of thumb: a can has a picture of a tire on it, don’t use it on your engine bay... who would’ve thought

[@shawnmcquade1259]

@John Smith lol what

[@mikejohn0088]

It's not KY either. It stuffed up my breather.

[@joepublic4384]

Its fine, just cover alternator with plastic bag first then rinse.

[@mikejohn0088]

Did you ever notice all those other electrical connections under the hood...the plug ins. They are not hermetic.

[@bigdaddysshop8180]

​@@mikejohn0088do you think they don't get wet when you drive in the rain?

[@nadinemorris2921]

THANK YOU!! I have a 2001 Mustang GT Bullitt and I had the bottle of tire foam cleaner in my hand about to start spraying when I decided to grab my phone and watch tutorial again just to be sure about what to spray or not spray but THANK GOD your video popped up first and I decided to watch it. You have no idea!! Thank you!!!!

[@Adin-Irma14.09]

Man.. I was thinking to clean my engine with armor all tire foam in 2 days and after this video.. Hell no. Thank you for explaining how this stuf works. You got a new sub :)

[@rongray4587]

LOL! Me too. I just watched probably the same video as you, with Armour All foam, gave it a thumbs up and was going to clean my engine that way tomorrow.

[@SweetColo]

Isn’t there a difference between tire shine and tire foam? Tire shine bad, tire foam good?

[@Carlos-ks4ru]

Why would you tire cleaner? Ever heard of an engine degreaser

[@johngerlach2765]

Thanks Scott. I recently found your videos and I love your passion. Detailing is an art and not as much of a science. I have learned a lot from you - thanks for the passion and the ideas.

[@deankay4434]

As an ASE Master Tech and a GM technical instructor who held two day classes and four hour seminars in six states. The alternator is a CS130D with the "D" meaning dual fan, "CS" is case size while 130 is mm. The rectifier is a group of positive and negative diodes that get hot under current load. On the back, they are cooled down and the regulator is located there since all of the wiring is on the back. Never seen any alternator failure due to cleaners and GM engine cleaner uses #1 diesel fuel as it's main component. They get plugged with debris from plants that get sucked into the cooling holes of the alternators frame, causing an overheat problem that leads to component failure. Best to use compressed air on sensitive parts after a cleaning.

[@davidp8157]

Diesel is the main component of many trade products from automotive cleaning ,tractor transmission and hydraulic system flushes, to penetrating oil, to paint spray gun cleaning and storage

[@vdubnotch4810]

The vid that I saw using the Mcguire's, the guy used a modified air compressor blower that seemed to be pretty strong. Then he wiped down certain areas. In this vid he makes it seem like it's just sprayed on and just left there after just stopping the visible parts. He says he used his car as test but he didn't spray everything and didn't blow it off and wrote down. So if you're going to test this "hack" how about actually doing it the way it was said to be done. Use a dummy alternator, then take it off and show us the gunk that seeped in.

[@normlor8109]

THANKS SO MUCH AS I HAVE SEEN NUMEROUS VIDEOS ON THIS PROCESS AND IT LOOKS SO EASY AND SAFE, BUT SEEING YOU MAKES ME THINK A LOT MORE ABOUT PROPER CLEANING OF MY ENGINE I SMALL AREAS ONLY AND I ALSO HEARD REMOVING MY BATTERY IS IMPORTANT!

[@damagecontrol1049]

He did this because he cares about customers and a sense of responsibility for instructing those of us learning and knowing how to do things the right way. If you don't understand why he would put a chemical all over his engine bay that could damage his motor then your don't understand his passion for what he does. There's a reason why he has 4k subscribers my friend, this video is an example why.

[@averagedetailer9908]

I am glad you said this about him. The hacks that put him down have no clue. Scott knows his stuff and I do believe that he cares about the customer. He now has over 20K subscribers. Keep up the good work Scott.

[@mrlooneycooney8948]

From the moment you said a company had trouble with their customer I actually already knew what it was about...then you took off the cloth and..yups! MEGUIARS!!! As a former and very passionate cardetailer, used to work at AMG-exotics in Belgium, I so often had to tell people to watch out for their products! At a local event, racewars, I once even talked to a representative of theirs to see what they could offer me( i wouldn't though!) for my job. He immediately told me this: nothing! After a good talk he just told me I should stay away from his products as a professional detailer. Ofcourse I knew this already, but he surprised me by telling it himself and was actually a pretty honest guy. People, pls just sty away from their products. I could list out many other things, though I myself make about 90% of the sprays and cleaners myself! That's what a good cleaner/detailer makes a true great detailer over the years of experience! I got lucky a well known exotic-cardetailer here on youtube helped me out years ago and told me some of his secrets to get on with my passion. That lead up to me winning the 'best cardetailer' price at the autoshow in Brussels 2009 !!! Be passionate, do your research( this can take years!) and just don't expect miracles out of a can! Tip: Many of my products are put together pretty cheap from basic and key ingredients which you can get at pharmacies, other products also are put together on personal preference by cleaning-product companies. But understand a pro-detailer never gives up on his secrets, it's his life-earnings ;-)

[@jimmacmurdo355]

G thing

[@jju2131]

Indeed. Very well explained. We should thank this guy telling us the truth.

[@robertteague6342]

Gwen Coonen I use a lot of Meguiar’s products and I love them all. Just use it for what it says on the bottle to use it on. I use Meguiars tire shine and it works great on tires. It doesn’t say on the bottle to use it as an engine dressing. So I don’t get where you say to stay away from all of Meguiars products??

[@louisbarningham]

I spray my car engine with the hose to clean it and have had no problems

[@trenttuckfield535]

People act like engine operate in a clean room when it comes to water what do they think happens when it rains love the video keep up the great vids

[@robertclymer6948]

Good Video Scott. I glad to see the downside to this tire foam method. So please show us a video of a correct method, recommended products you use etc. Thank you. Thumbs up. My bad, I just found your other videos on doing it right. Thanks.

[@twandaye78]

He did't talk too much AT ALL. In fact, he said many things that were very necessary and greatly appreciated... We definitely need more guys like him in this country. People who can be trusted to do a great job, safely and correctly, rather than being perfunctory, for the sake of a dollar and convenience.

[@gearjammer4779]

Twandaye (Teknon) He talked WAY too much!

[@gearjammer4779]

Fake news!

[@hwetherell6250]

i wish you could do a video on what you do to minimize clean up when degreasing an engine bay. In my case, i have an older jeep that had an issue where there's oil on the engine, and the engine has never been cleaned before. So I'm concerned about the mess that falls down during the engine cleaning. It sounds like you only work on well maintained cars, so maybe this question isn't in your orbit, but i would be interested hearing your thoughts on mitigation of this oil dirtying a driveway, etc.

[@ausgedgallagher]

I thought I new about cleaning an engine bay as an old school mechanic. After watching this video I stand both corrected and completely better informed!

[@asencyel]

i case i missed that part i have to add, degreaser "dry" sprays are much higher in dilution of active ingredients than a regular dish soap in terms of oil solvent agents. Dish soaps work mainly by decreasing surface tension making it ready for showering water to physically move away debris by force. Dry degreasers have zero flow rate as mentioned many time on this video building up gunk inside very intricate ver low tolerance metal contact surfaces and essential mechanisms (like an alternator regulating voltage and cutting on off feeding voltage) They will also degrade plastic shields covering all wires and connectors , making them brittle very fast and easily fall apart causing loose connections and more seriously short circuits. do not use chemicals on engine bay area. Just foamy soap with a foam gun/lance, low pressure low flow rate spray water and take a second to cover alternator and battery with a simple grocery plastic bag. You're golden!

[@kurtmiller2254]

I have been detailing my engine for years. I first hose engine down on shower mode on my spray nozzle. Then spray my APC all over engine then hit it with a light brush . Hose off engine again then air dry it with compressor. Then spray armor all tire foam on microfiber rag any wipe down all plastics . Never getting it into the mechanical parts . Really enjoy your videos man . Super knowledgeable and through explanations. I have learned alot from you and have applied them detailing my own cars

[@TraumaER]

So glad I never put tire shine on my engine bay like an idiot. Back in the day I used to power wash a 2005 Scion tC while keeping electronics covered and covering the alternator. It is 2022 and I still have that same car today. Engine bay still looks close to new. I don't power wash it anymore, just use a detailer brush and some de-greaser where needed. Just had car completely repainted.

[@steveb2528]

Excellent video. I’ve used Super Clean on both my Hyundais covered the alternator and the under hood looked brand new. SuperClean is definitely the product to use. Blowing off the water is a very important step. Thanks.

[@normlor8109]

THANKS TO YOU GUYS I HAVE LEARNED WHAT "NOT" TO DO TO MY CARE INSTEAD OF WHAT "TO" DO AND CLEANING MY COMPRESSOR FILTER MADE THE AIRFLOW SO MUCH BETTER WITH MY A/C ON THAN ADDING "A/C PRO" !!

[@dpfrnqz671]

Thank you for this crucial straight up no BS information. I just watched a video of a guy who used armor all on his engine, then yours immediately afterwards. If ot says tires, that's where it belongs.

[@SkashTheKitsune]

Engines are designed to get wet, it's inevitable.... either through you kicking up water from the puddles on the road or even water running off the windshield and into the bay. As long as you are not stupid and have it travel into the air box while your engine is running or many of the electrical systems that are not sealed, you should be fine. The battery! you scream, well.... your car is designed to detect an overload and it cuts out the engine so that it isn't sending 24v all throughout the system, I jumped started my car and stalled another persons car, they started it back up and no fuses were blown. But having you go water happy with the garden hose is another thing, many components are designed to go well beyond the 14v, there are capacitors and distributors, many things that might appear be sealed but aren't.... don't drown your engine and before you start working on your car I suggest you go through a quick rrun through to make sure that all connections are secure and if not,disconnect,wipe them down with a cloth and dry it then plug it back in and make it secure. last thing you want is misfiring and even having double shots of fuel or even no fuel at all...EFI is very specific but also forgiving as long as you take due care.

[@04dram04]

They are designed to get wet when new. Not after the electrical boots become dry rotted after many years

[@asablack1364]

You don’t talk too much. As Gene Winfield says, “every day is a school day.” Keep up the good work. I learn something new from every video. Thanks

[@norcalvandweller8401]

So just put a plastic bag on alternator to cover it and seal it and rinse foam and sludge off the engine I have used this method for years with no issues

[@billmaroney5866]

I like to use foil for a molded fit, works great!

[@JackRR15]

Same, I unplug battery and cover open filters and alternator on my car and plan to do the same to other cars. If no cover above spark plugs wells I would do the same cover that to just in case.

[@JackRR15]

@@billmaroney5866 I use foil then a bag just to make sure, but if you used foil on it's own with no issues I should just use foil lol

[@DonSodaRomero]

TheMidnightNarwhal he did this entire video and i just slowly started to hold up a grocery bag. 😂

[@jaridshaw5883]

Scott you are spot on. Thank you for the video. What is a dressing that you recommend if people want some shine on the engine?

[@MissionFreiheit]

The truth is: we live in a complex world and it is never either-or. You CAN use tire shine on an engine bay as petroleum distillates perfectly loosen up dirt and grime BUT you need to blow it off with a high pressure air nozzle after a few minutes. Also you need to cover the alternator and evap system - but you should do that anyhow - and you don't drown the whole engine in tire shine. A little goes a long way. It is a hack way for PROFESSIONALS who know what they're doing, not for the average Joe who does not have enough mechanical knowledge to master this off-label use.

[@williamtorres9760]

Scott thank you for your advice I want to clean my engine RightWay you've been a big help

[@johnk8825]

If people are worried about water on their engines, do they not drive their vehicles in the rain? Water splashes up, the belts and fans catch it and send it all over the engine bay, but no one follows up to dry the engine after the rain. Get real, engines get wet all the time.

[@yulog]

Big difference between water splashing up from underneath or thru the grill and a pressure washer

[@04dram04]

Modern engines have slash guards. Also the water dosnt splash all the way to the top of engine. Also the water isn’t at high pressure from a power washer. I have personally broke the abs computer on my Range Rover, because I wased the engine bay. Cost $700 to replace. It’s a very real risk.

[@dustinpomeroy8817]

04dram04 yeah you still have to have some common sense

[@iamdjsluggo]

Ever open your hood after going through a few puddles? NO WATER all over the engine bay. Ridiculous.

[@damonreynolds6775]

Repeatedly powering through deep standing water is the only way that even remotely happens. And is still a very bad idea. Seen such people at the mechanic after storms.

[@andreiierdna9356]

Thank you for making this video and all the great info. You really know what you're talking about. I wish I saw this yesterday before stupidly spraying my engine bay with some tire shine foam. I'm definitely subscribing to your channel.

[@StrengthAndConditioning61]

This is a absolutely true video because I cleaned my engine with maple syrup and they voided my vehicle warranty immediately.

[@AussieYobbo83]

You have to be careful with some of those cleaning products in engine bays as most products contain silicone. Silicone apparently destroys o2 sensors which can also void warranty so you don't want to be spraying that stuff near the vehicles air intake.

[@Waxxumus]

I have used water many many occasions. Recently hit the engine bay of a 2015 kia with a power washer (only 2000 psi and AT A DISTANCE DO NOT HOLD THE SPRAY DIRECTLY ON CAR COMPONENTS, DO WIDE SWEEPING MOTIONS ONLY) and sprayed all the standing water out with a leaf blower. She runs like a dream. BUT. I also cover up my alternator and belts with a plastic bag to prevent oils and waters from reaching them.

[@ctamez9309]

Simple way is dont spray it on. Spray it on a rag or applicator then wipe it on the plastic pieces only.

[@TheAgentAssassin]

But it's sticky , tacky and attracts more dirt.

[@rld1278]

And heat makes it run...

[@ebuzek3648]

Ive been spraying mine with tire foam for many years. I spray a degreaser, then wash off with a water hose and blow it off with a leaf blower then I use the tire foam. My 05 corolla has 3001,000 miles and still has the original alternator.

[@gotonegotoneofthesetoo2627]

3 million miles on one alternator...why do I have a hard time believing you?

[@ebuzek3648]

Excuse me. 301,000

[@danalakes7807]

That is true! I have a Toyota Matrix with 279184 miles on it and it’s never had a new alternator. Folks if you take care of your stuff no matter what it is; it will last a long time

[@kcdaniels58]

Nice video but I have to respectfully disagree...I've been using the tire foam on all my trucks and cars and never had any problems...maybe I'm lucky....

[@archiefrenchii8214]

I actually use the tire wet on mine. Then start the engine and let the heat from the engine dry the spray.

[@James_the_Builder]

Clown 🤡

[@edwardlee9163]

Man. I am about to use the tire foam to clean the engine. I am glad that I watch your tube before doing it. Many thanks.

[@ozarkwilderness589]

been cleaning my engine bay for many years using Meguiars. never had any issues of any kind, and actually it protects all the plastic and rubber parts and keeps them from getting brittle. Once cleaned properly, wiped down, and it dries, its not sticky at all. Actually, its just the opposite from my experience, as dirt and ect won't stick to it. However, I don't have anything against using water on the engine either, and have done so on a very dirty engine as a first stage of cleaning, before using a foam protectant. And washing off the excess foam should be fine, don't see that causing any problem either, although if you wash off to much you might get as much of the protection on plastic and rubber parts that it would otherwise offer. And further, I'm not going to soak my alternator in it or something. Yeah I could see doing so could possibly cause an issue, but as you said just use common sense.

[@franchisefred4066]

Agreed. Just don’t overuse the tire foam on sensitive electrical parts and you’ll be good

[@igotajopamerica3040]

I've cleaned over 10,000 cars over the years and degreaser scub brushes and powerwasher. You should get your engine warm but not hot, leave running as you wash. Know what you can spray directly and what you need to pay attention to how you spray(like the fuse box). I'll spray degreaser all over an alternator then spray it fully with water soak rinsing the alternator with water. Will not hurt it. But when your done spraying then shut the hood with motor still running and let the engine heat dry out the motor compartment. If it needs better detailing first let it dry shut off motor and hand clean with degreaser and scub brushes and rags. Then start the motor rinse well with powerwasher,shut hood and let motor heat dry out motor compartment or just go for a drive if its your car. Never had any problems ever.

[@Montyhugo]

I LOVE THE WAY THAT YOU TALK WITH YOUR HAND!❤👌👍

[@freedom1439]

Sorry folks, been spraying my engine for years with tire foam, and I change my oil once a year. My truck s a 2000 f 250 with 300,000 miles on it. I’m 60 years old. This will be the last truck I ever own. I pull a trailer almost every day, on weekends I pull my 5 th wheel Mobil home camper, and sometimes just my boat. I have never replaced anything under my hood except the spark plug boots. I have had plugs replaced 2 times. Once every 10 years. And yes. Oil changed once a year.....READ YOUR OWners manually.........

[@chicago1680]

I agree 100%.I been spraying too with foam de greaser on my C5 Corvette with a Procharger for years maybe 9? Not ever once a problem. You get more oil ad grease and water in your engine bay when it rains then cleaning it once an awhile. It reminds me of people saying don't mess with your steering wheel the air bag will blow. How many people or stories have you heard of airbags blowing or motors not running after a wash? I have heard stories of a guy who knows a guy who knows a mailman who knows someone that it has happened too but I never seen one. As many people that work on their cars that wash their engine bays with a power washer or use foam or the thousands or millions of people that have changed out their steering wheel why don't we here millions of stories of the motor not starting or the air bag deploying? Sure it's good to be cautious but now we are on the borderline of don't jump into the pool right after you eat and wait 15min or you need to change your oil every 3k miles.

[@rongray4587]

Interesting.

[@cswann8]

ChrisFix has a really great video on engine compartment cleaning. But this is good info and probably something detail shops who do work for dealerships should watch. I kind of feel like they'd be the ones to take dangerous shortcuts like this.

[@josephmccorkle3903]

Okay, so I just saw your video - AFTER I sprayed my motor. What do I do to reverse the process?

[@darrenkorb1463]

Scott you are amazing mate thanks for sharing your knowledge I've learnt so much from you !!

[@brettkowalewski9535]

Too many customers are easily brainwashed and are afraid of everything(especially here in Plano). I deal with this paranoia daily in home remodeling. Also, many times, customers think they know everything. If a customer wants you to do your job in a way that isn’t consistent to your normal routine, walk away. They aren’t worth it.

[@suicidegrapes7302]

My Uncle who was a "brick mason"...said those exact same words to me over 40 yrs ago.

[@nyplantings2420]

Amen

[@gtvic2010]

It’s called internet

[@saspursdynasty]

Bet you feel like an hypocrite when your the customer and your being served....and their walking away.

[@kostadinustavalkov1902]

That's why I don't hire those anymore. Is my money my house, I want things done my way

[@anton_c8gur]

i was about to buy a tire foam today while riding my bike to the store. fortunately it rained and also watched your video

[@audieconrad8995]

Soooo many chemicals used in the industry. No substitute for doing an engine bay right. Good cleaner - I use an effect homemade, soft spray water, proper brushes, towels, air blower and shall I say - "grit" & determination... to do the job correctly and not quickly. This was a REALLY good vid.

[@bigjohn5104]

I have seen a lot of videos saying its okay to do this tore foam method. I have a very dirty 96 explorer engine to clean. After the 5 or 6 videos I saw showing the tire foam method...... I just could not bring myself to use on my engine. Something just told me it was a bad idea. I greatly thank you for backing up my thoughts of why this would be a bad idea. Great job great video. I will now be looking for your videos on how to clean a mistreated engine bay starting... Now! Haha have a great day sir!!!

[@biohazeconversions4872]

Impressive engine guts knowledge, sir. Good advice as usual. Thank you

[@rogerwadell8784]

Scott, I wanted to see you remove the foaming product from your engine.

[@bbww3969]

I am an auto detailer and pressure washing business.Spraying any kind of tire foam on an engine etc.has got to be the least wise(saying that kindly) ever given that there are several other options. You can use odd methods like tire foam in the short term and think things are just fine, but its not just fine. There is no one universal quick fix. It will always be a combination of methods and a thing called spot cleaning . You don't just take a can of degreaser and coat everything and call it a day. Professional detailers like the gentlman making this video cares like I do. We know our chemicals and the science behind them. High ph, low ph, eco friendly etc. You can use a pressure washer at low pressure to target specific areas. A regular garden hose turned down to target certain areas whether just a tiny pressured spray, or free flowing no spray. TO spot clean. We dont want to send oil, grease, certain chemicals into the storm sewer or neighboring creek. Very hot water to boiling water is key. Stand alone. For about 90 dollars go get the McCulloch steam cleaner. It has just enough preasure to push away residue. But of course easier with an appropriate cleaner. Non phosphate cleaners!! Just dont use a phosphate cleaner without getting into that subject. You can use your steam cleaner a thousand ways in your home as well or car interior. No steam cleaner, ok. Get a one quart hand pump sprayer, or two, .One to apply chemical with hot water. Make boiling water in the other for rinsing. Use a garden hose to quickly do an overall flush. Hook to hot water heater if you can. You dont need to use 5 gallons of water. On gallon at best. Dawn dish soap is a degreaser. Label will say no phosphates. Biodigradable surfactants. This doesnt mean though is completely safe to just dump into the environment. Don't use dish soap to wash your car if its waxed or sealed. It will strip it. You will have to do some manual labor, like using a couple types of brushes to get inbetween things to spot clean a section at a time. Spraying a cleaner all over at once and letting it dry is counter productive. Treat, scrub, rinse. Repeat, etc. The right cleaner with very hot water will eliminate needing to scrub most everything. By the way, tire foam will leave residue. It will instantly attract dust. Any good honest detailer knows exactly what I'm talking about. We don't cheat people, but a lot of screw offs do. You get someone like me to do a full detail in and out and you'll know the difference. You'll generally pay more, but money well spent. Actually a professional sometimes may cost less in the ease in which we conduct our business. Spend a hundred bucks on something done wrong, or 180 done right! Auto detailing done right is not easy. Its a profession with a lot of factors that can ruin an interior or a paint job. Its more time consuming than you think. I don't cheat, I don't sell garbage that you don't need. I will teach you a few things to keep your detail up so it lasts much longer. Of course hoping that you will again have me back or refer me to others. I want it to cost less for you in the long run. I don't intentionally skip something in an attempt to get you back sooner. Best wishes to everyone. PS, put something under the vehicle to catch grease etc.when doing an engine clean. Dispose properly

[@juliuscaesar4931]

I used to use big washing machine trays under the engine when I clean it so the water and suds don’t go anywhere. They sell them at Lowe’s really cheap

[@ralphgrant4675]

Mm Ssthats why we dont live in California Thanks 5

[@mikejohn0088]

I have an idea. Let the dirt rest in it's place and don't kick the sleeping dog until it awakes.

[@cowboystuff2002]

I've never thought of using the leaf blower to dry off the engine. I've used my air compressor, but what an excellent tip!

[@asaeed2484]

Yup. Good ol Scotty (Kilmer) uses a big blower fan but who has those. I think a thorough use of a leaf blower is an excellent tip i will try.

[@genericdude6551]

Or a shop vac that both blows and vacuums.

[@bigdaddysshop8180]

I use a leaf blower to dry my cars and motorcycles after I wash them. Then go over them with a microfiber towel and detail spray.

[@handydanny3859]

I detail engine bays in Oregon with a heavy duty degreaser a pressure washer a little hand scrub Agitation and dwelling then a high quality dressing comon sense and caution prevents issues from arising.

[@reeb9016]

This reminds me of people using the Tornador on carpet without extracting afterwards. It's just pushing the dirt somewhere else(sweeping it under the carpet) rather than removing it. Great video.

[@DANIEL-ls5ku]

I used to take my car every week to get cleaned because in the Gulf sand dust are common thing. This shop has hundreds of cars cleaned everyweek. They pressure wash the engine bay with water. I had that car for years until I moved to a different country.

[@mikejohn0088]

In Somalia you will have greater issues. Good luck.

[@raymondrodriguez5068]

Like how you use your hands to emphasize main points but you also look like your conducting an orchestra.🤗

[@rays-777]

Dust collector. I just use a spray bottle of soap and water with a rag and a beer. I do it socially as it attracts my neighbors and they wanna come over and have a beer with me while I get the job done then I fine myself spraying and wiping the same area for 15 minutes absentmindedly while we're conversing.

[@scootmex53]

I have the same problem too...lmao

[@joedmac78]

That's awesome , sometimes... You just have to look at it

[@stephenmartinez1]

I use super clean on my engine, self serve car wash low pressure rinse, and brushes. Wet it all, spray spray, brush brush it all. Thin long brushes for pushing down in between stuff, and a larger one for panels. I rinse the heck out of the entire engine compartment, behind the engine, below and the sides of it all.. And I have yet to have any sort problem from it. I love seeing a clean engine.

[@timhowell1220]

Bad thing here is, Super Clean and lots of other cleaners, the mist will kill your lungs, WEAR A MASK.

[@Later2u]

I've taken my 2004 Dodge RAM each spring to the so it yourself car wash. Spray the engine with soap cycle, everywhere, then switch to rinse water and do the same. When done, I get in start the engine and drive home. I've never had an issue doing this in many years and the engine and bay are clean.

[@ctamez9309]

I have been using tire shine on my engine bay for 12 years and my vehicle still runs as it came off the lot new.

[@nyplantings2420]

Yeah i use it too and I have some nice vehicles. I guess he should warn more about over use. I'll bet you and I both clean the engine periodically not only rely upon tire shine. I use no touch just on the plastics: we can use some discretion when spraying tire shine. The warnings he is giving are good for thought though. This guy caught the end of old school. Funny how millenials have more information than any other generation but they have nearly no skills nor education.

[@MrSamadolfo]

😒 i think hes talking about 10 yr old cars that never had an engine bay clean, if ur not gona use water then do a simple spot clean until u can get around to a real hose down

[@norcalvandweller8401]

Me as well

[@jaya.0069]

I have used tire foam for years on everyday drivers as well as classic autos without a problem. I think using in moderation is the key to not having the issues he's talking about.

[@charlies8454]

What about the smell traveling inside the car that true?

[@jonathanschultz2472]

I love how retailers make videos and all these kids target those videos just to talk shit because they are "KZbinrs certified professionals" The biggest comment that makes me laugh is the "don't use water in the engine bay it'll ruin your car" I guess non of them have driven in rain, through puddles or through a car wash

[@AdrianJayeOnline]

hey, how many times do you drive around with the hood open ? no, water from UNDER the car is light spray, NOT running water OVER the car NOR PSI washer. THAT is different, modern cars have engine splash shields, cars OLDER that 5 years the rubber seals a dilectric grease will not be fantastic, a CLEAN engine is not necessairly a good engine, OIL and oil on car parts stops rust.. go figure

[@deemdoubleu]

You do have to be careful though where you slosh water around inside an engine compartment. I managed to get water down into the spark plug wells and it damaged a coil pack. So be careful folks.

[@matsudakodo]

If possible use distilled water and blow & vacuum out at the end

[@Michael-Purcell]

Highly recommend wrapping/covering the alternator and open wiring with plastic bags before decreasing and cleaning any engine. Also, what good is an engine clean if you don't remove the plastic decorative cover over the intake? There's a ton of dirt and grime under them.

[@supersesqui]

Which car manufacturer recommends spraying the engine bay with water or anything else ? That's right....NOT ONE. I wonder why ?

[@hesterednave]

Thanks for all the info. You are a Good Man 👍

[@robertserrato3596]

I saw another video where the guys have been spraying the engine like that since 2017. Because people were asking the question would it harm the alternator. He sprayed the foam directly onto the alternator and even turned the car on and nothing happened. Anyway he wiped it down after he was done he didn't just let it sit there and drip down.

[@hackneymarshes]

Great explanations that make perfect sense. Thanks!

[@wmh327]

Thank you for this video. I was planning on doing this to my truck this Summer. You literally saved my vehicle. I'll go with a little elbow grease and a few hours of my time instead...Thanks again and God Bless!

[@chicago1680]

I'm not sure if I agree about everything in this vid but have you ever power-washed your car and sprayed the alternator? What do you think happens to alternators on the bottom of the car when it rains? Do you know how much oil and grease gets in it? Probably 10x more then if you foamed it with degreaser and power washed it off. If that was the case everyone that lived where it rained alot would be changing alterantord in unimaginable numbers but Guess what they are still running after all these years going through rain almost daily with oils mud dirt grease and who knows what else, Technology and engine wiring management has come a loooooong way..I been spraying with foam de greaser on my C5 Corvette with a Procharger for years maybe 9? Not ever once a problem and we are talking A LOT of aftermarket stuff and that car is 18 years old. You get more oil and grease and water in your engine bay when it rains then cleaning it once an awhile. It reminds me of people saying don't mess with your steering wheel the air bag will blow. How many people or stories have you heard of airbags blowing or motors not running after a wash? I have heard stories of a guy who knows a guy who knows a mailman who knows someone that it has happened too but I never seen one. As many people that work on their cars that wash their engine bays with a power washer or use foam or the thousands or millions of people that have changed out their steering wheel why don't we here millions of stories of the motor not starting or the air bag deploying? Because it's not a issue to spray it down with degreasing foam. Sure it's good to be cautious but now we are on the borderline of don't jump into the pool right after you eat and wait 15min or you need to change your oil every 3k miles. Would I spray directly into the alternator? No but do you know how long you would have to do that before it took a dump? Did you know people still believe they need to change their oil every 3k because manufactures said so in the 70's 80's and it's still embedded in their head even though its about 7k or maybe once or twice a year. Technology changes so should your practice. Would I spray down a carburetor car hell no but modern cars? Shoot spray away . Like I said people are getting into that don't jump into the pool after you eat and you have to wait 15mins myth. Its the same thing applied here. I'm still waiting for all the exploding airbag videos when someone changes their steering wheel and there are thousands of videos out of them changing them out and guess what no boom. I haven't seen thousands of bags go off because of it. BUT do what makes you feel comfortable but let's remember it's 2019 time to update the mindset thinking

[@shinerlightman]

I love it when a knowledgable person speaks during a video.

[@kylependleton1987]

MAINE GUY UP HERE. BEEN WASHING EVERY ENGINE BAY WITH MY PRESSURE WASHER FOR 3 YEARS. HAVNT MADE A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COME ON YET. MY 06 SUBIE OUTBACK HAS NO PROBS BEING WASHED AND THEN I USE A AIR COMPRESSOR TO BLOW DRY ENGINE BAY. EASY PEASY. BUT USE A GOOD ALL PURPOSE CLEANER TOO BRUSH OUT ALL THE NASTY OIL GUNK

[@BlairAir]

"They will wipe of the dust and dirt on the top of the engine bay that the customer can see with THEIR VISIBLE EYE standing in front of it." Had to comment after wiping the drink I spit out through my nose! Scott, you sir are "The ultimate Matum" as another wordsmith I knew said. Visble eye... Only you, sir. Only you.

[@kwb1714]

Thank's for sharing "The Rest of the Story".

[@Justicejamesb]

Very, very, very good video. I'm not in the industry, but thank you so much for putting it out!!!

[@69bobr]

What about using dish washing liquid through a foam cannon, USING a pressure washer AND covering the alternator with a plastic bag?

[@2010sinnamon]

Thank for the education, if I don’t have a leaf blower then should I not clean my engine?

[@TheNewenglandboys]

I put a plastic bag over my alternator, sprayed the entire engine bay and battery down with Super Clean, waited 5 minutes, Hosed it off. Done! And came out great. 2016 Sierra Denali

[@dreadpenguinlord340]

Thanks for the video. I'm glad I happened across it since I was just about to do the hack to myself!

[@dianakenealy8573]

Me too.

[@Rixi2047]

Scott you are an awesome detailer. And Thank you for sharing this detail.

[@loloent]

I watch this video thinking you were going to show how to clean the engine bay because thats what I needed to see and cautious of cleaning my engine bay on my Chevy Suburban 2003

[@amb7247]

You know when he says running water does he mean like you're spraying with a nozzle? Or does it mean just free-flowing water from an open hose? What is the difference between using gunk degreaser versus tire cleaner

[@johnanthonyraj6670]

cover the alternator with plastic and still you can use the tyre foam cheers

[@billmaroney5866]

cover alternator and distributor cap with foil...molds to fit

[@jeffokriya3389]

You can use that product (foam) just make sure you rinse completely. That foam is not very different chemically than the degreaser. But basically all you said is correct, it is damaging if you let it sit and don't rinse.

[@michaelreese878]

I'm telling EVERYONE about this. The last time I cleaned an engine, I used a product named FLOWAY(?) made by the Kano company - yes, it is petroleum based, but they tell you to wash it off afterwards! Good video!

[@mikejohn0088]

Wash it off....gravity takes control and the flow is goes where the resistance is the least into your electrical connectors to make strife in your life.

[@benl8834]

Thanks. I saw another detailer's video where tire clean was spread on. Cheap, yes, but not smart as you imply. He did mention that the car was being sold by one of his customers. I guess to make a good impression of a clean engine. I was surprised when he sprayed it on the alternator and of course it surely got on the belt, but he implied it was harmless. I just didn't buy that., which you confirmed. I would not do such a thing that could be harmful to an engine in the future, even if I was selling it. My conscience wouldn't allow that. You are an honest man. Do onto others as you would have them do onto you. You are an honest hard working man Scott and much appreciated. I do talk too much.

[@user-wo7rp6bc6t]

glad you did this video I was just about to use that and go at it

[@scottfirman]

I used to use a spray bottle of water at night under the hood of my car and others to find bad spark plug wire issues. People would complain how their car would run really rough when the weather was damp or raining, but fine when it was dry and warm. By lightly misting the electrical components, you can SEE the arching of the spark at night. Wires, coils, anything electrical SHOULD NOT be affected by misting. If they are, replace them. Coil wires, sparkplug wires anything electrical should NOT be jumping ground unless the wire or covering is compromised. Animals that get under the hood can easily gnaw through wiring harnesses and you wont even be able to tell, until you hit it with the mist. DO NOT run the vehicle while doing this. Also, do not reach in and grab any wet wires while test running the vehicle. As you stated, use a leaf blower to dry everything. You can spray everything with wire dry to seal your wires, but its only a temporary fix and WILL NOT fix wires that are broken or damaged internally.

[@gilbertrios5283]

Sound advise... I never clean the engine, it's the engine compartment... I'm always worried I'm gonna screw something up by spraying it down with water!

[@yourhandlehere1]

I don't like a "fake" shiny engine bay. Clean is what I want. I don't put anything on there after cleaning. If it's clean, the stuff that's supposed to be shiny, will be. I have a lot of polished aluminum (that didn't start out that way) to take care of though. A little dab of Mother's does the trick. I also like to take the paint off and polish the tops of brass radiators. Of course this is with good 70's and older cars...there's no reason to detail, or even open the hood on these crappy new cars, nothing but a fucking sea of plastic covers, no character. Just restored a 65 Mustang last spring. I have serious doubts about anyone being able to restore a 2018 Mustang 50 years from now. All the plastic...(75% of the car) will be rotten and brittle, the cheap body metal will be dust.....you MIGHT have a frame to work with if it's not a northern car from the salt belt. The best way to keep a modern car from rotting would be to build a box around it, fill it with clear epoxy resin and let it dry. Then you have a nice big paperweight.

[@Jstro14]

Best comment on the vid!

[@anonymouse7095]

Fucking epic haha

[@jkbethune]

Hahaha. So true.