Conference terri::cars_uk

    
    I have my car steam cleaned once every year around spring time. The guy
    here in Reading who operates the equipment recommends that some petrol
    cars keep their engines running while he is steam cleaning. This he
    says prevents some models getting the electrics wet and causing
    starting problems... Be careful of the air filter getting soaked
    though!
    
    In my opinion steam cleaning is essential for keeping the car going for
    many years, it keeps salt, grit and grease off the wrong areas. It is
    also essential for folks like me who work on their engines to keep them
    running - I absolutely hate filthy thick dirt covering the engine bay.
    I have never had problems with wet on any electrical parts, indeed if
    there is a problem what better way of finding our rather than one late
    wet night on the motorway! 
    
    I also insist on the wheel arches getting a going over. This removes
    the muck build up, and hopefully means that the hidden areas can dry
    more readily rather than providing a nice place for rust to start.
    
    I don't think that in most modern engine bays, once cleaning has been
    done, there is any need to regrease. All in all I believe this is a
    good thing to spend �5 or so on. 
    
    - Ian

    Hi,
    
    Do you know anybody that will do it for a fiver or so.. I'd like
    to get mine done..
    
    Thanks
    
    Jon

    There is a Steam Cleaning depot opposite the Smallmead Refuse dump in
    Reading. Recently a signpost went up at the little roundabout outside
    DECpark. At the second traffic lights after DECpark, going into Reading
    on the A33, there is another signpost - here you turn left. The
    depot/yard is about 1/2 mile down on the right hand side.
    
    I have been there at lunchtimes and not had to wait more than 5
    minutes. Strictly cash btw.
    
    - Ian

    That's great ...I'll check it out !
    
    Jon

    How much?
    

    I also agree that steam-cleaning is a good idea - undersides to
    combat rust, and engine bay to improve working conditions.
    
    However, I have found it more and more difficult to get garages
    to do this as part of the annual service ! The BMW franchise positively
    discouraged me from geeting the engine bay cleaned, saying that
    the thin coating of oil wasn't a bad thing and that steam cleaning
    in their engine bay would also remove the wax that is sprayed around
    fro rust protection. When I questioned them about their mechanics
    working on dirty greasy areas they replied that "in some cases'
    they would steam the engine-bay but this would then include respraying
    the wax afterwards. 
    
    Yet another reason for astromical service/repair bills from Beider
    Meinhoff Wagon.
    
    AMS

re.:  i say yes, BMW say no

audi & mercedes dealers seem to steam clean your engine at major services
(& without you asking for it to be done)


...art

BMW used to too. Now they say that it is bad for all the electrics
under the bonnet...

In Switzerland underbody and engine steam cleans are COMPULSORY prior to going
for an 'expertise' (a very strict MOT) - Swiss Authorities don't want to get
their hands dirty doing the inspection! My VW Camper was cleaned yesterday -
haven't got it back to look at yet.

Steve

    I cleaned the engine of the Elan once before a Concours.
    
    They took off points, since it didn't look 'original' - no oil leaks!
    
    	-Barry-