So i wanna clean my engine and before i do id like to ask those of you who have done this. what parts of the motor should i cover up?

 

I usually don't cover anything up, but I don't go crazy with the power washer either. Here is what I do:
1. go to a DIY car wash
2. pop the hood and spray it down with an engine degreaser and let it soak
3. rinse off the outside of the car and soap it down
4. pop the hood and rinse off the degreaser
5. use some Formula 2001 cleaner and spray down the engine and let it soak
6. Continue finishing washing the car
7. when done with the car, pop the hood and rinse the engine bay.

It works pretty well for me.

 

Depends on how ur gonna clean the engine. Pressure washer or hose?

either way i beleive keeping water outta the intake is the only biggie. I pressure wash my engine and when i do i just take the air filter out and put a rag in the intake tube. (don't forget to take the rag out!!!) other than that everything should be water tight.

 

The engine should be warm before cleaning right and after i wash it down etc should i let it run?

 

Don't put cold water on a hot engine.