How to Clean Engine, Brake Rotors and Calipers?

[WK05]

So, this may sound like a stupid question, but what is the best way to clean your engine compartment, calipers, and rotors? The calipers and rotors are rusted too.

Those who keep an extremely clean ride, chime in!

[Chaoul1]

Calipers....Sand them down and paint them with G2.

The Engine:http://jeepgarage.org/showthread.php?t=7319&highlight=Engine+Wash

[Jim Hef]

For the engine compartment, I just fill a spray container with undiluted Simple Green concentrate, and then liberally spray the entire area. Leave it sit for awhile, and then gently rinse it with a hose. This takes off even greasy smears, but sometimes you need to scrub the stubborn spots with a soft brush. Some detailer on the rubber and plastic parts, and it looks better than showroom condition when you are done. Doing this also helps to spot any leaks that may develop over time.

[DJ BoNiOmArIo]

rotors u can either turn them or use some brake cleaner fluid and apply liberally all around then get on the highway and bed those brakes

[Jim Hef]

I think he was referring to the rotor hats, not the braking surface.

Rusted cast iron is very difficult to clean enough to keep the paint sticking. A wire brush chucked into a power drill may be your best bet on the calipers before trying to paint them. For the rotors, wait until you need new ones, and prior to installing them, cut a 7" diameter hole in a thin cardboard as a mask, and then spray the hats with high heat caliper paint in the color that you want. I've used both silver and black with good results.

[bpmcgee]

When painting cast iron, may I add my suggestions? After you get off all the rust you can, use a degreaser, and when that's dry, a liberal coat of phosphoric acid.

Phosphoric acid is the active ingredient in Naval Jelly. It converts any remaining iron oxide (rust) to iron phosphate, which is inert. It turns the cast iron a uniform grey as it dries, and you prime and paint right over that.

Edit: Just to be clear, do NOT use this on the working surfaces of the rotors, which should NEVER get anything but degreased.

B