The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk ..yet another pressure washing question

Hello,
I did a search and found parts of the info that I need, but I still have a few questions.
I am working on fixing up a 58' while I did remove the bed, media blast the body cab etc, I did not remove the cab from the frame or pull the engine etc as they are all working well. I am trying to finish refurbishing the chassis, cleaning around the tranny, under the cab and surrounding areas. Is it safe (for the truck) to pressure wash to remove 50 year old dirt, loose rust and grease? Has anyone tried this with success? What (other than my body) should I protect in these areas?

Thanks,
Brian

Brian - would that be much different than driving 70 in howling rain? just bag the carb and distributor and have at it, but you might want to inspect areas to make sure when you blow the 'loose rust' away there's gonna be something left

Bill

Hey Bill,
I tried it at 70 mph but it was hard to hang on to the brush and scrub when my wife made wide turns.

Thanks on the tips

Brian

or maybe I am just feeling guilty about not poppin's the cab off

You don't have to take the cab completely off. Unbolt it, throw an old mattress over the frame and roll the cab over. Sort of like moving the couch when you vacuum.

I drove mine down to the local car wash with a creeper and some safety goggles...boy did I make a mess..but I paid another $1 and washed it all to the drain...just couldn't leave that for the next guy

Don't be afraid. I use a crappy electric one to pressure out my vehicles. I also use to clean engines. I spray the thing with engine degreaser cover electronics and carb and spray away with know ill effects. It also has given me a one good surprise and that is I have the orginal wood in the bed of my pickup it is dirty and I presumed stained but the good old pressure washer cleaned it right up and now with a little varnish or sealent will look just like new minus a view deep scratches which just add charecter.

Get some Castrol Degreaser from the local auto parts store and soak it down a hour or so in advance. Don't be shy with it, really soak it, then hit with a power washer, hot works better, but cold will get the job done. Rent one for a few hours, it well the best money you spend! Joe