On that note, anybody ever used stainless steel hardware on an engine exterior? I think it'd look sweet to have that contrast but I know how bad stainless hardware is for galling up and stripping out threads. Be a shame to ruin a block or other castings if I ever needed to make repairs.
Dip the threads in axle grease . Subtract 10% from torque values , if the value is not a lubed value.
It would look good but I'd hesitate for the reasons you mentioned. Here's some food for thought Article: Corrosion mechanisms in stainless steel
Steam cleaner is best. I have never found a really good degreaser. My BIL brought home the dirtiest stinky grease laden forklift from a chicken processing plant. It was so bad he got it for free. His steam cleaner removed everything. I used to contract mobile high pressure washers(up to 10,000 psi) that will take the grease and paint to bare metal