Well, I've always been leery about puddles or any kind of water touching my engine compartment. After replacing 2 opti's on my 94 within a month, and my 95 has a new opti. So I'm not to anxious too get under there and replace the beast again.

But after I got my car up on the lift the other day... I realized how ugly she looks on the underside.

And from what I've learned from the military, is oil stains may be old, so its good to keep them wiped up to know if you have a problem.

as my drive shaft has a bit of residue near the rear, as does my T56...

Anyhow, my question is... considering the OPTI... is it a bad idea to get the engine bay or under body steam cleaned or washed?

 

I would not do any steam cleaning near the opti. Not everyone has moisture issues with theirs, but it I would avoid it as a precaution.

 

I've always just sprayed my engine compartment with simple green, let it sit for a few minutes then rinse with a hose nozzle on a mist setting. I've never let mine get to greasy. If yours is real bad try one of the foaming engine degreasers, then rinse with a light water mist. I try to stay clear of directly spraying the opti. Never had any opti issues.

 

Here in Pennsylvania that's called rust prevention.
I use simple green myself and I usually will not start it for at least a day afterwords.

 

I've had good luck with griot's garage engine cleaner for cleaning any grease. here's a link if your interested.

http://www.griotsgarage.com/product/...C+35+ounces.do

 

you can go to auto zone and buy some engine degreaser which will work just fine on your engine just dont spray directly on the opti. i do this all the time and just wipe it down later.

 

Use a brush and a rag,then close the hood.