power washer

[Karl Owen]

Looking to buy a power washer for general residential projects, and to wash my car. Should I go gas or electric? What PSI range is safe and effective for our cars? What modesl are you recommending? Many thanks to all.

[JFP in PA]

4 hours ago, Koenbro said:

Looking to buy a power washer for general residential projects, and to wash my car. Should I go gas or electric? What PSI range is safe and effective for our cars? What modesl are you recommending? Many thanks to all.

 

Yikes!  You should NOT be using a power washer on any car as they can generate enough power to blow the paint right off the car, as well as destroying any rubber seal it touches.  BAD IDEA!

[Karl Owen]

Thanks will stick to old school hand washing.

[911urge]

I'm going to respectfully disagree with JFP.  Numerous detailing professionals and us normal people use a pressure washer to wash cars. I suggest further reading at Detailers Domain, Ammo NYC, Adams Polishes for more information.

 

I use an electric pressure washer for my gar. Gas versions may produce to much PSI and flow rate that can be an issue in car washing.

[JFP in PA]

Used with appropriate care, it is possible, but considering the damage list from pressure washing that has come into the shop over the years (dented panels, lifted paint, blown out seals, flattened tires, damaged brakes, holed cabriolet tops, emblems blown off, ripped bumper covers, etc. etc.), I would still caution against its use.  The problem with these devices always lies with the operator, who seem to believe that is one PSIG is good, and two is even better, then forth seven has got to be just right; and that is when all Hell breaks loose...……………....

[WTL]

I generally use 2 bucket method - 1 for rinsing and 1 for soap. 14” horse hair brush and garden hose. Soft top coated 1 per year w Porsche fabric soft top care - forget what’s it’s  called.   Even then I’m careful not to blast too much wasted on the windshield as water always seems to find it’s way to settle in the battery tray.....  I’d love to see someone take a car like this through the auto wash - it’d blast a hole in the top w the spray jets. When I drive my truck through one the wipers about get blown off.   Pressure washers can be used if careful - but most aren’t and 1 slip will do a lot of damage.