my monthly raptor maintance

[Prybar]

That alternator is designed to get wet. I wouldn't worry about it or anything else under there when washing. If you think about it, flushing that stuff with clear water HAS to be better than whatever muddy, salty crap is in there after splashing through the rain or puddles.

 

[JP7]

Grab a cheap steam cleaner from Crappy Tire - worked wonders for me on detailing the engine compartment. Works great on the carpet too.

 

[Prybar]

I use the turtle wax brand tire foam after using Castrol Super Clean and a hose. the tire foam seems to make all the rubber and plastic shiny again and makes all the other stuff look clean and new after the Super Clean makes it all look like it's just been stripped for painting!