how do i clean this??, valve cover Options

[Malhar95]

since im rebuilding my engine...and waiting on the parts, i was thinking of painting my valve cover...but for that i have to clean it 1st.
I've tried a lot of engine degreaser, carborator cleaner and other fluids in my garage...
my question is, can i use water? like take it to a self car wash and presure wash it with water and soap?

this is what it is right now...



so can i use water to clean this up or what?
if nothing, can i just paint over it?
what paint should i use!

thank you!
also if you guys can help/suggest something on this forum


http://www.6gc.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=74264

[mgnt232]

WOW! what in the world does your engine bay look like!? lol but good your cleaning it up
I used soap and water and a couple SOS pads, and mine came clean.
I also was concerned about the water, so I taped and put a little bit of paper towel in the 4 plug holes. I wasnt sure if water would mess up the rubbery gaskets inside, so I would tape it off a little as a precaution.

And just scrub I dont think the car wash would help much just let it soak with degreaser, and scrub. Should come relatively clean But keep in mind it wont come 100% clean easily.

And as far as paint, go to the auto parts store. and get whats called "engine enamel" (spray can) comes in all colors, if it cant come clean (assuming you want an OEM look) I would paint it a silver or black looks very clean
Just make sure you tape off the "16 valve" thing if you paint, because it looks alot better than if you paint over it.
Best of luck