A clean engine bay looks great, makes it easier to spot leaks and other issues, and makes routine maintenance simpler. Whether you're detailing for a show or just want your daily driver to look its best, KBS Klean makes the job easier. Here's how to detail your engine and engine bay as a DIY project.
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Engine Bay Cleaning Ratio 25 parts warm water to 1 part KBS Klean. Warmer water improves cleaning performance. |
1. Get Ready to Detail Your Engine Bay
- Make sure the engine is cool before you start. Hot engines, radiators, and exhaust components can cause burns, and heat makes cleaners evaporate too quickly.
- Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal. You'll be spraying a lot of water in the engine bay, and this prevents electrical shorts or damage.
- Cover electrical components and open element air cleaners with plastic bags or plastic wrap to protect them.
- Gather your supplies: KBS Klean, a bucket, sponge, scrub pad or brush with a handle for tight spots, plastic bags or wrap, goggles and rubber gloves, terry cloth towels, and an air compressor if you have one.
2. Clean the Engine and Engine Bay
- Scrub the engine and engine bay down with KBS Klean, a concentrated, water-based, biodegradable cleaner that removes dirt, grease, and grime.
- Mix KBS Klean with warm water in a bucket at a 25:1 ratio. Most engines have non-ferrous metals like aluminum and brass under the hood, and this ratio cleans effectively without being too aggressive.
- Wear goggles and rubber gloves while you work.
- Scrub with a sponge, and use a scrub pad or bristle brush for heavier grime. Wash for 5-10 minutes and keep the surface wet, don't let the solution dry on it.
- A power washer works too. Start with a 25° nozzle (switch to 40° if needed), and stand back at least three feet since close-range pressure washing can damage parts. Avoid spraying directly into electrical components.
- Rinse thoroughly with water once you're done cleaning, then let everything dry. A terry cloth towel and compressed air will speed up drying.
- Remove the plastic covering and reconnect the negative battery terminal. Wipe down any dirty spots left under the covers.
3. Dress It Up
- Finish with an engine bay dressing for a deep, lustrous shine. Oil-based dressings tend to be stickier and attract more dirt and dust than acrylic-based ones.
- Some dressings spray on and stay for quick coverage, while others go on a cloth or sponge first for more control over placement. Follow the instructions for the product you choose.
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Pro Tip Keep the surface wet through the whole cleaning process. Letting KBS Klean dry on the engine bay before rinsing reduces its effectiveness and can leave streaks. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What ratio of KBS Klean should I use to clean an engine bay?
Use a 25:1 ratio of warm water to KBS Klean. Most engine bays have non-ferrous metals like aluminum and brass, and this dilution cleans effectively without being overly aggressive on those surfaces.
Do I need to disconnect the battery before cleaning an engine bay?
Yes. Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal before cleaning to avoid electrical shorts or damage from the water and cleaning solution.
Can I use a power washer with KBS Klean on an engine bay?
Yes, but keep the pressure moderate. Start with a 25-degree nozzle, stand back at least three feet, and avoid spraying directly into electrical components and connections.
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Get a Show-Ready Engine Bay KBS Klean cuts through grease and grime for a clean, professional-looking engine bay. Shop KBS Klean View KBS Klean Directions |