What should be ensured before cleaning an air-cooled engine?

Before cleaning an air-cooled engine, it is essential to ensure that all fluids are drained. This step is crucial because it prevents any cleaning agents from contaminating the engine's oil or fuel systems, which could potentially lead to degradation of components or affect engine performance. Additionally, draining fluids can help avoid hazards such as spills that can create slippery surfaces, pose environmental risks, or result in fire hazards if flammable materials come into contact with cleaning agents.

While warming up the engine, replacing filters, or disconnecting the battery can be important procedures in various maintenance contexts, they are not as critical as ensuring that fluids are properly managed before cleaning. Cleaning with fluids still present can lead to unintended damage or safety challenges, making fluid drainage a priority for both maintenance effectiveness and safety considerations.