[dammitmitchell]

ouch!
ok.. so "normal" engine detailing i use "purlpe power" driveway cleaner, and cheap hard bristle brushes, the ones you use for pots and pans with the long handle..
it's time consuming but worth it i usually start "soaking" the night/afternoon before, then morning of i spray down again wait about thrity minutes and start scrubbing, rinse repeat
the driveway cleaner is safe for your wiring bundles and all rubber fittings,
but if you have it all apart.. easy off will strip everyting under the sun right off no problem..
brillo pads work great on the aluminum (carb brake lines etc)
wire brush as needed

and before painting rinse all residue with carb cleaner and/or mineral spirits.
=-)