How to wash an Exige correctly? - LotusTalk

albert · 10-16-2009, 01:10 PM

Guys... how do you wash your Exige? How should we wash it?

When i was my Exige i am always afraid to spray the water directly when i am washing the rear end... i am worry that the water might damage the engine part or leave a water mark in the engine component where hand aren't reacheable... Also for the front part where it has netting... I always use a wet cloth to wipe it so will it really damage the engine if i have water directly on it? Mind to share how you clean your Exige?

apk919 · 10-16-2009, 01:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by albert

Guys... how do you wash your Exige? How should we wash it?

When i was my Exige i am always afraid to spray the water directly when i am washing the rear end... i am worry that the water might damage the engine part or leave a water mark in the engine component where hand aren't reacheable... Also for the front part where it has netting... I always use a wet cloth to wipe it so will it really damage the engine if i have water directly on it? Mind to share how you clean your Exige?

Don't worry about getting water on the engine. Even cars that have "hoods" get plenty of water on the engine when driving in the rain.

I would avoid spraying "high pressure" water directly at the engine and valve cover however... it's possible to cause electrical problems and corrosion.

So: you can spray water on the engine, but don't use a pressure washer or even the narrowest spray from a typical garden hose spray handle. Just "rinse"...

LordZ · 10-16-2009, 01:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by albert

Guys... how do you wash your Exige? How should we wash it?

When i was my Exige i am always afraid to spray the water directly when i am washing the rear end... i am worry that the water might damage the engine part or leave a water mark in the engine component where hand aren't reacheable... Also for the front part where it has netting... I always use a wet cloth to wipe it so will it really damage the engine if i have water directly on it? Mind to share how you clean your Exige?

I just hose it down with the water hose then wash with soap. In the engine bay and all. Then again I don't treat it like a show car either.

axecreatives · 10-16-2009, 01:41 PM

I just put mine in the dishwasher.

But seriously, those areas are made to get wet. I don't sit there spray tons of water into the engine, but wash the car as you would wash any nice car.

+anthony

Steve B in SD · 10-16-2009, 01:56 PM

I just try to avoid running water into the engine bay as much as practical. Some water is going to get in, no matter what. Mop up as much as possible with a rag, then make sure to run the car up to temp so the engine heat will finish drying to avoid any corrosion from water you can't reach with the rag.

apk919 · 10-16-2009, 01:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve B in SD

I just try to avoid running water into the engine bay as much as practical. Some water is going to get in, no matter what. Mop up as much as possible with a rag, then make sure to run the car up to temp so the engine heat will finish drying to avoid any corrosion from water you can't reach with the rag.

OK, that's too clean. Even for San Diego...

agirls · 10-16-2009, 02:05 PM

lol, I was thinking that is way to clean too!

Vishus_1 · 10-16-2009, 02:31 PM

Before I was the car I make sure the car is not hot to the touch or in the sun. My driveway is at an angle - so I also make a point to aim the nose down.

I then place a plastic tarp in my engine bay covering up everything - - this is nothing more than the same plastic tarp one might use to place along baseboards while painting your homes walls. Close the hatch gently and make sure nothing shifted.

I begin by mixing the soap and water in a bucket.

Then I spray a light mist across the car. If there are areas with more dirt - like the underneath or wheel wells - I will shower those with more water in an attempt to get as much off as possible.

Using its own special towel - I start with the wheels. I do this because they can be time consuming. On the LSS rims, I also used a foam paintbrush on a stick to get into the tight areas. I use a sponge on the tires and try to reach into the wheel wells with it. What I can't get this way, I do afterward once I have finished with the car - sometimes removing the wheel. Rinse frequently.

I make sure to never let any water on the car dry. If it looks like it is, I rinse and mist the whole car.

I then concentrate on the rear diffuser, rear grill and exhaust tip. I wash and spray this seperately.

Using a new towel - typically my best towels - I start with the roof and move down the car a section at a time. It is important to make sure there is adequate car wash soap on the car - foaming. If, as I move to the bottom, the car is much dirtier I will move to a new different towel - to not contaminate the first. Folding and rotating the towel to clean areas as I move from section to section. After the roof I tend to move to the back first then the sides and front. I do this pattern because my nose is down. And I do rinse as I go along.

I never get water in the engine. And if some did get in, I wipe it off before it ever gets dried by the engine. I see ECU's all the time that have a white corrosion on them from water. I also see the engine cover that says Lotus Performance and intercoolers that have baked in water spots. This doesn't look so great to me - but to each their own. If someone else is indifferent about this with their car, so be it - but I do everything within my ability to take care of my car and preserve it. I recognize my methods are a bit extreme but I enjoy doing this kind of this too - I find it relaxing.

To dry - I start with the glass and roof - section by section going down the back, sides and front. I tend to dry the wheels last. I also open everything to get in jambs and sills. Flip/turn towels all the time. Invest in awesome towels - they are worth it.

Dont ever rub hard on the cars paint or reuse towels that are dirty or get soiled.

Another tip I do when cleaning windows, go one direction on the outside (like back and forth) and another direction on the inside (up and down). This way, when you are done, if you should see a streak - you can tell weather it is on the inside or outside.

Don't get me started on how I wax/protect my car - it's like I have OCD and very methodical.

chemo · 10-16-2009, 03:15 PM

I believe we have the most anal thread ever.

ZJChaser · 10-16-2009, 03:31 PM

Simple green the engine bay when engine is warmed up then hose it off well, scrub anywhere there is some build up.

When the sides and front of the car are ~50% covered in splattered rubber its time to bust out the orbital and take care of that.

apk919 · 10-16-2009, 03:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZJChaser

...
When the sides and front of the car are ~50% covered in splattered rubber its time to bust out the orbital and take care of that.

Especially with Aspen White, right AJ?

Who remembers Gerry Cheevers?

ZJChaser · 10-16-2009, 03:38 PM

absolutely. I call it that dalmatian look

Noisycow · 10-16-2009, 03:40 PM

This is the best $69 (at Home Depot) I ever spent when it comes to car washing plus of course the other uses. Wash, then blow off the water, the engine compartment - stronger than you'd imagine. Before I'd spend most of my time drying.

Amazon.com: Toro 51599 Ultra 12 Amp Variable Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum With Metal Impeller: Home Improvement

apk919 · 10-16-2009, 03:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Noisycow

This is the best $69 (at Home Depot) I ever spent when it comes to car washing plus of course the other uses. Wash, then blow off the water, the engine compartment - stronger than you'd imagine. Before I'd spend most of my time drying.

Amazon.com: Toro 51599 Ultra 12 Amp Variable Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum With Metal Impeller: Home Improvement

Even better... get a Wet-Dry ShopVac that has a detachable blower!

ZJChaser · 10-16-2009, 03:50 PM

or.....drive down the road...

Exigeer · 10-16-2009, 03:52 PM

Zaino Z-7 car wash once a month and polish with Z-6 Gloss Enhancing.
Twice a year clean with a Z-18 clay bar and a coat of Z-2 PRO.

I am going to try their new Z-8 Grand Finale for after washing next:

Z-8 Grand Finale Spray Seal: Zaino Store

The Aspen tent shines out with this procedure.

Off course, the only thing that takes off orange cone marking from the star shield is 3M rubbing compound.

Noisycow · 10-16-2009, 03:57 PM

The shop vac won't have near the concentrated, brutal spot-on blower 220mph strength it really takes to clear all the water out.

Driving down the road right away is often impractical and lots of places retain water and spot up. To match the air speed of the blower you'll have to break a lot of laws.

Just thought I'd suggest it. If you get that $69-$74 blower you will not be sorry. It really does the trick. Plus, of course it is great for blowing leaves off your property.

kestrel74 · 10-16-2009, 04:04 PM

Automatic Car Wash ! It's in the Manual !!

apk919 · 10-16-2009, 04:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Noisycow

The shop vac won't have near the concentrated, brutal spot-on blower 220mph strength it really takes to clear all the water out.

Driving down the road right away is often impractical and lots of places retain water and spot up. To match the air speed of the blower you'll have to break a lot of laws.

Just thought I'd suggest it. If you get that $69-$74 blower you will not be sorry. It really does the trick. Plus, of course it is great for blowing leaves off your property.

ORLY?

Blower vac - RIDGID Professional Tools

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ridgid

Detachable hand held blower provides 265 mph wind for removing debris from walkways, decks, yards, driveways, job sites, tools, etc. Performance meets or exceeds that of dedicated lawn & garden leaf blowers.

Noisycow · 10-16-2009, 04:21 PM

Wow I stand corrected!

However, it is a lot easier to use a small portable unit then drag a tank around the car.

10-16-2009, 01:10 PM	#1 (permalink)
albert Registered User Join Date: Aug 2009 Posts: 44	How to wash an Exige correctly? Guys... how do you wash your Exige? How should we wash it? When i was my Exige i am always afraid to spray the water directly when i am washing the rear end... i am worry that the water might damage the engine part or leave a water mark in the engine component where hand aren't reacheable... Also for the front part where it has netting... I always use a wet cloth to wipe it so will it really damage the engine if i have water directly on it? Mind to share how you clean your Exige?

10-16-2009, 01:41 PM	#4 (permalink)
axecreatives Registered User Join Date: Nov 2007 Posts: 56	I just put mine in the dishwasher. But seriously, those areas are made to get wet. I don't sit there spray tons of water into the engine, but wash the car as you would wash any nice car. +anthony __________________ 2006 Phantom Black Lotus Exige

10-16-2009, 01:56 PM	#5 (permalink)
Steve B in SD Registered User Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: San Diego Posts: 104	I just try to avoid running water into the engine bay as much as practical. Some water is going to get in, no matter what. Mop up as much as possible with a rag, then make sure to run the car up to temp so the engine heat will finish drying to avoid any corrosion from water you can't reach with the rag. Attached Images

10-16-2009, 02:05 PM	#7 (permalink)
agirls Registered User Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Santa Paula, CA Posts: 767 Images: 73	lol, I was thinking that is way to clean too! __________________ Toys- 07 Lotus Exige S Chrome Orange 05 Ducati S4R 02 Suzuki SV650 09 Kawasaki KLX250

10-16-2009, 02:31 PM	#8 (permalink)
Vishus_1 Super charged! Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Missouri Posts: 1,038 Images: 62	Before I was the car I make sure the car is not hot to the touch or in the sun. My driveway is at an angle - so I also make a point to aim the nose down. I then place a plastic tarp in my engine bay covering up everything - - this is nothing more than the same plastic tarp one might use to place along baseboards while painting your homes walls. Close the hatch gently and make sure nothing shifted. I begin by mixing the soap and water in a bucket. Then I spray a light mist across the car. If there are areas with more dirt - like the underneath or wheel wells - I will shower those with more water in an attempt to get as much off as possible. Using its own special towel - I start with the wheels. I do this because they can be time consuming. On the LSS rims, I also used a foam paintbrush on a stick to get into the tight areas. I use a sponge on the tires and try to reach into the wheel wells with it. What I can't get this way, I do afterward once I have finished with the car - sometimes removing the wheel. Rinse frequently. I make sure to never let any water on the car dry. If it looks like it is, I rinse and mist the whole car. I then concentrate on the rear diffuser, rear grill and exhaust tip. I wash and spray this seperately. Using a new towel - typically my best towels - I start with the roof and move down the car a section at a time. It is important to make sure there is adequate car wash soap on the car - foaming. If, as I move to the bottom, the car is much dirtier I will move to a new different towel - to not contaminate the first. Folding and rotating the towel to clean areas as I move from section to section. After the roof I tend to move to the back first then the sides and front. I do this pattern because my nose is down. And I do rinse as I go along. I never get water in the engine. And if some did get in, I wipe it off before it ever gets dried by the engine. I see ECU's all the time that have a white corrosion on them from water. I also see the engine cover that says Lotus Performance and intercoolers that have baked in water spots. This doesn't look so great to me - but to each their own. If someone else is indifferent about this with their car, so be it - but I do everything within my ability to take care of my car and preserve it. I recognize my methods are a bit extreme but I enjoy doing this kind of this too - I find it relaxing. To dry - I start with the glass and roof - section by section going down the back, sides and front. I tend to dry the wheels last. I also open everything to get in jambs and sills. Flip/turn towels all the time. Invest in awesome towels - they are worth it. Dont ever rub hard on the cars paint or reuse towels that are dirty or get soiled. Another tip I do when cleaning windows, go one direction on the outside (like back and forth) and another direction on the inside (up and down). This way, when you are done, if you should see a streak - you can tell weather it is on the inside or outside. Don't get me started on how I wax/protect my car - it's like I have OCD and very methodical. __________________ 2009 Exige 260 SPORT - Chrome Orange / Carbon Fiber / Black with the mustache Purchased through St Louis Motorsports

10-16-2009, 03:15 PM	#9 (permalink)
chemo Registered User Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 54	I believe we have the most anal thread ever.

10-16-2009, 03:31 PM	#10 (permalink)
ZJChaser Blue Wheel Pimp Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Laguna Hills, CA Posts: 2,851	Simple green the engine bay when engine is warmed up then hose it off well, scrub anywhere there is some build up. When the sides and front of the car are ~50% covered in splattered rubber its time to bust out the orbital and take care of that. __________________ AJ - Akua Solutions - #128 Lotus Exige - JRZ Suspension - Innovative Mounts - Toyo Tires - TW Research Development

10-16-2009, 03:38 PM	#12 (permalink)
ZJChaser Blue Wheel Pimp Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Laguna Hills, CA Posts: 2,851	absolutely. I call it that dalmatian look __________________ AJ - Akua Solutions - #128 Lotus Exige - JRZ Suspension - Innovative Mounts - Toyo Tires - TW Research Development

10-16-2009, 03:40 PM	#13 (permalink)
Noisycow Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,466	Air blower This is the best $69 (at Home Depot) I ever spent when it comes to car washing plus of course the other uses. Wash, then blow off the water, the engine compartment - stronger than you'd imagine. Before I'd spend most of my time drying. Amazon.com: Toro 51599 Ultra 12 Amp Variable Speed Electric Blower/Vacuum With Metal Impeller: Home Improvement

10-16-2009, 03:50 PM	#15 (permalink)
ZJChaser Blue Wheel Pimp Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Laguna Hills, CA Posts: 2,851	or.....drive down the road... __________________ AJ - Akua Solutions - #128 Lotus Exige - JRZ Suspension - Innovative Mounts - Toyo Tires - TW Research Development

10-16-2009, 03:52 PM	#16 (permalink)
Exigeer Registered User Join Date: Dec 2006 Posts: 27	Car Cleaning Procedure Zaino Z-7 car wash once a month and polish with Z-6 Gloss Enhancing. Twice a year clean with a Z-18 clay bar and a coat of Z-2 PRO. I am going to try their new Z-8 Grand Finale for after washing next: Z-8 Grand Finale Spray Seal: Zaino Store The Aspen tent shines out with this procedure. Off course, the only thing that takes off orange cone marking from the star shield is 3M rubbing compound.

10-16-2009, 03:57 PM	#17 (permalink)
Noisycow Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,466	The shop vac won't have near the concentrated, brutal spot-on blower 220mph strength it really takes to clear all the water out. Driving down the road right away is often impractical and lots of places retain water and spot up. To match the air speed of the blower you'll have to break a lot of laws. Just thought I'd suggest it. If you get that $69-$74 blower you will not be sorry. It really does the trick. Plus, of course it is great for blowing leaves off your property.

10-16-2009, 04:04 PM	#18 (permalink)
kestrel74 G-200 Driver Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: North of Detroit; Watkins Glen, NY Posts: 9,312	Automatic Car Wash ! It's in the Manual !! __________________ 74 Europa Zetec TC Special 3614R Elise #2292 / Chrome Orange !! / Starshield / Nitron Sport SA / RTDbrace / Uprights machined / Down Low rails / ChaseCam / V1 / SS lines w/ R4-S "My daily driver does .85 Mach" " I started flying when Sex was safe and Hang Gliding was dangerous " BUY My Europa ! http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f94/...pa-sale-43829/ Last edited by kestrel74 : 10-16-2009 at 04:25 PM.

10-16-2009, 04:21 PM	#20 (permalink)
Noisycow Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,466	Wow I stand corrected! However, it is a lot easier to use a small portable unit then drag a tank around the car. __________________ - - - - http://thecomingdepression.blogspot.com/ No longer the coming Depression, it is already here.

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