355 Engine Dressing Question?

I use WD40 - gives the whole lot a nice shine.

 

I have used WD40 in the past until someone said that he contains an "acid". Not sure if it is correct. I guess it makes sense if WD40 is used for freeing up rusty hardware. However, I switched to silicone spray just to make sure. You get the same look and protection. Just put on a light mist. If you do it too heavy it will run and look messy. You can spray it all around. It makes the engine compartment real nice and can help you with additional points in a concours.
If I am incorrect about the WD40, let me know.

 

Silicon defineately sounds like a good safe option. Silicon is very unreactive (hence usage in boobs), I might give that a go actually.

 

I have used this stuff by a company call Wizard lately... They have a whole line for leather, chrome, plastic, etc..

One thing I have used on the plastic parts of the engine for shows, etc. - Skin So Soft (Avon product) don't laugh - this stuff is awesome for leather or plastic - and gives a great "wet" look.

The other thing I have used on the plastic is the Tire wet - just a little on a clean cotton towel - and wipe done the plastic part's gives a great sheen.

Just some thoughts...

Rich

 

The problem WD 40 is that is tends to attract dirt, in my experience. Great for winter storage or protection but not great for regular cleaning unless you get it off all the way.

 

All the shinny stuff most detailers use end up burning off. Your best bet is so wash the engine and then apply a plastic protectant. Wait 20 or so minutes and then buff off the areas you applied the plastic too. This will reduce extra product and provide a nice dark finish. Hope this helps.

 

I only use either Zymol Protectant or 303 Aerospace Protectant on plastic. I usually use the Zymol for engines. This can be found in most auto supply stores but has just been discontinued by Zymol. So get some while you can. Hope this helps.

 

careful with the silicone spray. The smallest vacuum leak anywhere in the engine bay, and the O2 sensors are gone for good. Had problems with one detailer who used the spray shine slime, and had 3 cars in a row loose the O2 sensors within a day or two of the detail.
Dave

 

Is it OK to use a silicon gel instead? (like a tyre dressing).. is the problem the silicon spray (particals) in the air get into the O2 sensor, if so I guess a gel would be better?
Ade

 

I used to use this until it caught fire

 

Hum, that's why it is reactive, at least I always seem to react to it

 

How did it catch fire ???

 

My engine bay is now a slimey silicony shiney supreme sight. Used Tyre dressing silicon gel. It has not burnt off at all yet (a few miles done). Just as well I did all this cleaning as I spotted a problem with the shock absorbing system connected to my Tubi... a source of squeeking going over bumps.

 

Agree about not using WD40. On metal painted surface wax (not polish) and Armorall on flat black (frame cross bars, etc). Wipe down after each wash.
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Personaly i think the 355 engine bay looks more better and fuller than the 360, and thats got a glass panel.Has any one tatefully done a show engine lid for the 355?

 

I was thinking that too- how about one on the same lines as the 360 spider, which also has a flat lid?

Robert.

 

Yes, sort of.... see this http://www.ferrarichat.com/discus/messages/251280/230168.html

 

I do remember i think last year seeing a TR with a clear panel in the engine lid on this forum, there was photos to.

 

I'm the one that made it (old user name KAZ)...

If I can get my hands on a 355 hood I could fabricate 360 type hood. I'll keep my ears open just for the fun of it. Of course, heat is an issue and I would have to drill a series of holes in it....

But have to tell you, this thing really works and allows you to wash your car without worrying about water on the engine...electrical system and keeps the engine spotless...

 

I would think that spraying WD40 onto an egine would cause some of the bolts to get loose over time because it is normally used as a penetrating oil. I kind definatley see it as a fire hazard.