[arkansascarnut]

1. Warm the engine up, then kill it.
2. Use aluminum foil to cover any parts you don't want wet (fuse block, relays, whatever).
3. Spray the engine compartment with engine cleaner (the foaming kind in a can...can pick up at Walmart or any parts store). This is petroleum based, but I would try to avoid getting it on the fenders when spraying...it would spot or streak the finish....not permanently but you may have to touch up the wax.
4. Wait 5-10 minutes
5. Using a garden hose, spray off the engine compartment
6. Remove the aluminum foil
7. Start engine up
8. Let it run for a good 10 minutes - this will ensure water didn't get down in any places you don't want AND will help dry the engine.
9. You can also use an air compressor with a blower nozzle to aid the drying process.
10. Once dry, I spray the entire compartment with WD-40. There are several "engine dress" sprays available, but I've always liked the results of the WD-40 and it's cheaper!
11. Since WD-40 has a tendency to create over spray I usually do this process when I'm about to wash the car.
12. I'm a bit anal and actually wash my engine everytime the car is washed!
13. Once WD-40 is applied, use a shop towel to wipe down everything. It will leave a nice glossy look without having a wet residue everywhere.