Engine wash - battery disconnect?

[Major_B]

Hey guys, after several offroad weekends my engine bay needs serious washing - full of mud. Chills down my spine to do something wrong in there.
For those who already did that, did you disconnect the battery? Anything important to cover/protect?
Thanks
Laurent

 

[Tenac]

I probably should have but I didn't. I just don't use high pressure instead use just the hose and a long handle brush. But it would be smart to disconnect the neg terminal under the rear seat.

 

[landmannnn]

Hey guys, after several offroad weekends my engine bay needs serious washing - full of mud. Chills down my spine to do something wrong in there.
For those who already did that, did you disconnect the battery? Anything important to cover/protect?
Thanks
Laurent

I put a plastic bag over the fuse box (the rubber seal isn't that good)

Do not use a pressure washer!

Avoid strong chemicals, they will make your bolt heads rusty.

Plenty of water from a garden hose is ideal.

I clean the alternator first, then bag it to prevent too much dirt getting inside.

A toilet brush is ideal for scrubbing mud off. (Don't use the one from bathroom!)

No need to disconnect the battery.

It will take longer to clean the driveway afterwards than cleaning the engine. You might need a pressure washer for that.