Using Power Washing to Speed Up Engine Bay Detailing – Yes or No?

Engine bay maintenance is a beneficial, but time-consuming activity. Furthermore, it is a process that allows for no shortcuts. This area is extremely sensitive and houses the majority of the most essential car components. Despite this fact, today’s fast-paced lifestyle and lack of free time often drive owners to seek out ways to speed things up a bit.

But, is engine bay detailing really that much of a time sink? Moreover, is speeding up the process by power washing worth it? Or is it better to opt for the services Orange County classic cars restoration shops offer, and let the pros take care of engine compartment maintenance for you?

How long does it take to detail an engine bay?

The amount of time needed to detail an engine bay of a classic car can vary dramatically depending on several factors. These include:

• Experience and knowledge of the detailing process;

• Whether adequate tools and cleaning products are used.

Said factors are neither situational nor optional. The engine bay is the most complex area of a car. There are too many nooks and crannies, sensitive and loose parts under the hood. Therefore, there is no way to brute force it. To reap the benefits of engine bay detailing, the job must be done with patience and finesse, above all.

With this in mind, it is easy to see how an unprofessional DIY approach can easily take an entire afternoon. Not to mention that the process is extremely messy and can turn frustrating after only a short while. On the flip side, professional detailers can clean the entire engine bay in a fraction of that time.

Depending on how dirty the compartment is, it can take them anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, at most. That means you can bring your car over, run across the street for a quick cup of coffee, and have the entire day left over to cruise down Modjeska Canyon!

Can you power wash the engine bay?

Power washing an engine bay of a collectible car is never advisable. Unlike modern ones, the components of older vehicles aren’t nearly as protected. This makes it too easy for a high-pressure water stream to go past the gaskets, connectors, caps, and fittings. It can also loosen and damage them, thus creating even more and bigger problems in the long run.

Therefore, unless you know exactly what you’re doing, it is better not to risk it. Especially knowing that the price of a professional engine bay detailing job is minuscule, compared to the cost of repairing or replacing damaged components.

How can I clean my engine without damaging anything?

The only surefire way to clean the engine bay and all the interconnected components is to let the experts do it for you.Professional detailers spend excessive amounts of time training for the job and even more practicing.

Their knowledge and experience allow them to make swift work of gunk and grease under the hood of a classic car. Pair it with specialized tools classic car shops have, and you're looking at quality work, free of unnecessary risks.

Where to find the best detailing service Orange County classic cars restoration shops can offer?

Whether your car needs a bit of a touch-up or a complete makeover, Chimera Motors is the place to go. Our crew has ample training and experience in every niche of classic car restoration. From detailing to painting, to full conversions, we can give your vintage ride the expert care it deserves.

Contact us today and enjoy all the benefits one of the best vintage car restoration shops in Orange County can provide.