Honda Car Forum

Hi,

Own a 99 Civic EX. I am an engineer and had to visit construction
sites for inspection. My engine has a lot of mud, it is covered and
needs a good wash.

What is the best way of doing this? Is pressure washing OK? How about
electrical and other hoses/connections? Should I do a wash when the
engine is completely cold or somewhat warm?

Any suggestions? The engine really needs a wash (I even got mud in the
cooling fan) but I am hesitant to do a pressure wash.

Thanks.

In article <1113699837.011802.200580@l41g2000cwc.googlegroups .com>,
"nash123" <bulent74@gmail.com> wrote:

> Hi,
>
> Own a 99 Civic EX. I am an engineer and had to visit construction
> sites for inspection. My engine has a lot of mud, it is covered and
> needs a good wash.
>
> What is the best way of doing this? Is pressure washing OK? How about
> electrical and other hoses/connections? Should I do a wash when the
> engine is completely cold or somewhat warm?
>
> Any suggestions? The engine really needs a wash (I even got mud in the
> cooling fan) but I am hesitant to do a pressure wash.
>
> Thanks.

Cover the oil and alcohol based fluid tanks and the transmission vent
with rags or plastic because a strong stream of water hitting them will
require an immediate fluid change. Wash with a normal garden hose and
garden nozzle. Don't direct forceful streams of water at bearings or
electrical connectors.

"nash123" <bulent74@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1113699837.011802.200580@l41g2000cwc.googlegr oups.com...
> Hi,
>
> Own a 99 Civic EX. I am an engineer and had to visit construction
> sites for inspection. My engine has a lot of mud, it is covered and
> needs a good wash.
>
> What is the best way of doing this? Is pressure washing OK? How about
> electrical and other hoses/connections? Should I do a wash when the
> engine is completely cold or somewhat warm?
>
> Any suggestions? The engine really needs a wash (I even got mud in the
> cooling fan) but I am hesitant to do a pressure wash.
>
> Thanks.
>
>

Do it when the engine is cold, you have the risk of cracking the exhaust
manifold. I cover the dist cap, alternator and fuse box with a plastic bag.
Spray engine cleaner on the engine only (avoid the paint). Rinse with the
water house with no water pressure, jut let the water run. When you finish,
warm up the engine. Let it cool down, dry it with rags and then wipe the
plastic parts and hoses with a little bit of armor all.