Washing the engine bay of an RDX (getting water into intercooler)
07-05-2009, 01:57 AM
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Washing the engine bay of an RDX (getting water into intercooler)
Hi there, new member to this forum and new owner of an RDX '09.
In detailing the engine bay for this car, after I degrease, is the intercooler something that needs to be covered-up when proceeding to lightly rinse the engine bay with a hose? Or can I liberally wash the intercooler when rinsing the rest of the engine bay?
My instincts tell me that I shouldn't be hosing down the intercooler as well. However, I assume water does get into the intercooler when say, I'm driving my RDX on a rainy day.
Any tips will be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
In detailing the engine bay for this car, after I degrease, is the intercooler something that needs to be covered-up when proceeding to lightly rinse the engine bay with a hose? Or can I liberally wash the intercooler when rinsing the rest of the engine bay?
My instincts tell me that I shouldn't be hosing down the intercooler as well. However, I assume water does get into the intercooler when say, I'm driving my RDX on a rainy day.
Any tips will be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
07-05-2009, 04:31 AM
#2
The Old Grey Whistle Test
An engine bay is water-resistant i.e. water splashed up from the road, forced water froma hose is a whole other story.
Protection of Electrical Components
You need to cover various parts prior to using any cleaning products, sprays (water deterrent, formula 40( WD-40 )) or water.
•Alternator
•Alarm Housing
•Intercooler
•Battery terminals (if not covered already)
•Induction kit cone (if you have one)
•Coil packs
•Intake opening (Ziplock bag)
This is not an exhaustive list, nor is it marquee specific, if in doubt use a water repellent (WD-40) and exercise common sense
Tin foil is a better alternative to using cling-film for the alternator, alarm housing etc as it is easier to mould and has greater protection properties. I suggest you use a plastic bag for the induction kit and just wrap it tight over the end to stop any water ingress.
For the intercooler the best way to cover is to get a flat sheet of cardboard and just cut it to size so it fits and covers the fins. Cardboard will normally protect the fins for the duration of the washing. It will get soaked so discard after the wash.
Protection of Electrical Components
You need to cover various parts prior to using any cleaning products, sprays (water deterrent, formula 40( WD-40 )) or water.
•Alternator
•Alarm Housing
•Intercooler
•Battery terminals (if not covered already)
•Induction kit cone (if you have one)
•Coil packs
•Intake opening (Ziplock bag)
This is not an exhaustive list, nor is it marquee specific, if in doubt use a water repellent (WD-40) and exercise common sense
Tin foil is a better alternative to using cling-film for the alternator, alarm housing etc as it is easier to mould and has greater protection properties. I suggest you use a plastic bag for the induction kit and just wrap it tight over the end to stop any water ingress.
For the intercooler the best way to cover is to get a flat sheet of cardboard and just cut it to size so it fits and covers the fins. Cardboard will normally protect the fins for the duration of the washing. It will get soaked so discard after the wash.
An extract from one of a series of in-depth, unbiased detailing articles © TOGWT ™ Ltd Copyright 2002-2008, all rights reserved
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