Gee, i noticed the engine bay is pretty dirty today. Seems to be a fine dark dust over the back firewall and over the top of the engine components. Last time i looked it was spotless, but that would have been last year.

I cant see any leaks visible from the rocker covers but the seals were replaced about 8 months ago. Could this just be from drivin on the freeway and in the city every day? Is it typical?

Whats the safest way to clean it? If i hose it down do I need to cover anything first?
Should i use a degreaser? Any better way? I did try wiping with a rag but it would take a while that way.

Bump, i know its a trivial question, but should i just hose down the engine or is there a better way? Steam cleaning?
And should i cover anything?

I clean my engines once a year or so. I use Truck Wash or similar, but don't let it dry out. Then carefully hose off with a pressure washer. Don't point it at stuff that it might penetrate, like seals etc.

Then I touch it up with whatever. Then drive for a bit to dry out. Then I soak it in silicone spray, my favourite is bike shine. Let it soak overnight.

Here is a pic from under the bonnet of my old 2001 Courier, sold last year with 280,000 kms on it and acquired new that has had this treatment. Not just cleaned, some dust, but not bad for 12 years old. Magna is similar, but no pics to hand.

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-08Ejdt7R9_c/U4_BnU1gO_I/AAAAAAAAGyg/vG3mE-d3AIQ/s912/DSCI0199%2520%2528Medium%2529.JPG