Is there a way to keep rats from nesting in my engine?

[Sprinkler Fitter]

My two are rescues also. Have a couple of stray Toms come around occasionally. Mine arent too receptive of them or any other cats.

We had strays coming around when we built here in 2016 and my wife was feeding a couple of them then all of a sudden we had skunks and raccoons and possums eating the cat food also so I had her quit feeding the stray cats

 

[leebob]

I use moth balls in mesh bags, panty hose will work but the plastic mesh material is best. Put a bag or 2 where ghey do damage. Sprinkle a few under and round your tractor and they usually stay away.

 

[big bubba]

same. as mentioned in the thread, i also leave hood open.
i want to look into a solar powered light that stores energy in day & works at night. plus the led is a lot safer than incandescent to hang in the engine compartment.
any example products out there?