Just bought a 89 3 series,and was wanting to wash the engine,any ideas would be appreciated.Thanks in advance.

people are going to flame you and tell you to search. i used simple green and it worked really good for me... im not expert though so go ahead and search and see what you come up with.

Here is a good engine detailing article that should answer your questions.

http://www.bettercarcare.com/articles.php?articleId=25

If you're trying to get all that yellowish crap off, good luck...it's easy to get off the valve cover with some steel wool, but the plenum is a pain...

Simple Green has always worked for me. I always worry about getting water some place it shouldn't be.

Simple green is a problem solver.

Simple green is a problem solver.

As for the plenum, take it off and use westleys bleach white and a toothbrush to get in all the nooks and crannies. westleys takes off oxidation and makes rubber look like new Use it on your tires and you'll put that shiny tire greese away.

Degreaser and toothbrush.