Spray Car wash question

There is a car wash just off campus I frequent. It is one of those quarter fed, high pressure spray and foaming brush places. I love it since I can get up under the truck with the spray.

However, on spray option is "Engine Cleaner". It comes with a disclaimer that reads similar to "Donot drive car until ten minutes after spray. Failure to comply make result in stalling"

Just to feed my curiosity, what could be in the spray, why would you have to wait 10 minutes to drive, and even if I put grocery bags over my electronics (sensors, fused, etc) should I avoid high pressure?

 

I would avoid spraying "engine cleaner" out of high pressure hose into the engine compartment. To many seals, bearings, electrical components, connections, etc that can be ruined if water enters them.

I would only use a hand towel sprayed with degreaser to wipe down the engine bay. Spraying anything (even just water) in there is NOT a good idea.

I assume the stalling is because you are driving with wet electrical components. I wouldn't want them to get wet in the first place. It's also a liability issue. If you drive away and stall on the highway because of a short, they are liable for any damages (without the disclaimer).

 

Those pressure washers put water where water's not supposed to go, I'd never use one for the engine compartment.

 

Thats more for older cars with distributor caps and rotors. If the points get wet then car no run. With our coil on plug the odds of anything getting wet and messing up is very slim. Many times i wash the engine while it is running and have had no problems.

 

X2.
Actually, I wouldnt use a pressure washer period; except for VERY infrequently and then ONLY on the rinse cycle to knock off the ugly stuff on the undercarraige. Of course you have to dewal with the water spots later.

 

I used to run a car wash. The engine cleaner was low pressure...at least at mine. I used it off and on with no problems. One thing to remember when using the foaming brushes...think about what that brush was used on last by the guy before you. Anyone? Anyone? Probably his tires. Be sure to rinse out the brush before you use it on your paint to get out any little pebbles and dirt.

 

when i used to go to those places i brought my own bucket and sponge

 

By far the best way to wash your truck if using a DIY car wash.


Use a microfiber sponge with a bucket that has a small amount of car wash soap, and wash the dirt off the truck. then rinse with the gun.

 

yep or own your own pressure washer, or use ur dads

 

The only thing I use at those places....is the rinse & soap. That's it.

I use the sprayer and NEVER use the brush.