Any suggestions how to clean the engine, from top and bottom?
I would first suggest putting this into the 328 section. However since I saw it, I can let you know later today as my day is going to be partially spent cleaning my 328 engine bay for the first time!! Nice coincedence huh?? Anyway, I will let you know. After looking at it, I can tell you I am thinking of using some sort of metal polish, a toothbrush, rags, dawn soap, etc. One of the OTHER things I was considering though is WD-40. It was recommended by a few guys on the board. We'll see. Probably go with the others though. Oh yeah, also will be using ArmorAll's tire foam in the black trim pieces inside the motor. This is ESPECIALLY effective on rubber, plastic, and rubber-like substances that are black. Just my past experience. Dab it on the cloth and go to work!!
Used 409 so far and a bucket of warm water. A little plastic bristle scrub brush and some elbow grease. Put the car up on ramps and went to work. Looks pretty nice so far. Will have pics when I am done. Will definitely have pics when it shines. Right now it is a "SHEEEESHH!! There is NO WAY that car is an '87!!" and in a week, it will be a "NO WAY is that car not NEW!!!". That's the plan at least. Probably will try a little Flitz or something when I get frisky. Tonight was just to get most of the gunk off. And there was VERY little of that!!
I have used WD40 before. It works great, especially in areas that have heavy oil. The stuff almost melts off.
I am a big fan of the S100 motorcycle cleaning products. The spray cleaner can be used on everything from painted bodywork to greasy engines. Spray it on a cold engine - wait a while - hose it off. They also make a non silione corrosion protectant. Find it at bigger motorcycle and Harley shops.
WD-40 is basically scented kerosene thus diesel. Make sure distributor and all electrical contacts and connections are tightly wrapped in plastic. If this is a driver the less cleaning the better, if its for show carry on. Never ever use a preassure washer in an engine compartment. Have fun.
