[Raz5219]

Although it's probably safe to use a PW on modern cars, I won't do it just in case. A while back, my brother flooded his 1990 Toyota Cressida engine with a PW. The result was very expensive. So after that experience, it's a regular hose for me.

[Tonya]

Just a damp MF and a spray bottle for me. Heck I don't know what all that stuff is. I just see the dirt and grease and do what I can. Anywhere my hand will reach I will clean. I am not going to chance a thing

[supercharged]

I woundn't use a power washer... Water pressure in a hose is good enough for me.

[Bac1033]

using just a hose puts more water out than a pressure washer and to be specific a hose puts out anywhere from 3 to 6 gallons per min depending on your setup and the average pressure washer puts out 1 to 3 gallons a min, i have cleaned thousands of engines everything from year 68 to 08 and have never had any problems with it. You just cant sit there and blast things like distributor or coil packs and sparkplugs cover them up and you will be fine.

[RTexasF]

I've done it since the 60's and only had two no starts. That was back in the days of distributors and points and it was easily fixed. It's the only way I'll do a really dirty engine bay but it certainly isn't always needed.

It works for me and I will continue to use this method as required.

[togwt]

(Always consider the experience / knowledge level of the reader)

The reason I always err on the side of caution is the advice given is read by neophyte, enthusiast and professional. An experience detailer will appreciate potential problems and know how to avoid them, whereas the inexperienced will not.

I would prefer that any recommendation given results in a positive experience, there could be nothing worse than moisture / electrical problems resulting in a vehicle not working because of something an inexperienced detailer read on DB

[supercharged]

Originally Posted by togwt

(Always consider the experience / knowledge level of the reader)

The reason I always err on the side of caution is the advice given is read by neophyte, enthusiast and professional. An experience detailer will appreciate potential problems and know how to avoid them, whereas the inexperienced will not.

I would prefer that any recommendation given results in a positive experience, there could be nothing worse than moisture / electrical problems resulting in a vehicle not working because of something an inexperienced detailer read on DB

I agree, very well said.

[jayjacque]

So kind of split down the middle, very interesting. I think I've only used a hose, but the power washer with precautions makes sense. On the hose side, I think I only remember once me or anyone I knew using too much water and making it hard to start.

[Smith2287]

For me I am not a big engine detailer because I don't like to take any chances. But when I do it its only been a hose for me and I still get worried.

[911Fanatic]

Two words people-COMMON SENSE. A pressure washer dialed back will actually flow LESS water than most garden hoses. Keep your distance with either method so the water is lightly rinsing the engine. Holding either water suppy within a few feet of electrical parts could be disasterous.