Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Classic Morgans (pre-CX) Washing the bonnet - advice

A correction on my earlier comments, and thanks to Sospan for reminding me.
I also use a Meguiars lambswool mitt, so I must be doing something right!

Horrors! are you still using a sponge - I thought those had all been binned. Microfibre mitts from Aldi or Asda - or Halfords if you have more money than sense. These avoid scratches & swirl marks as sponges just trap grit particles - microfibres don`t. You`ll be telling me you use washing up liquid next.
I`ve had no problems getting the engine wet using mitts - the water that does go through is only the same as in a rain shower.

I agree. To be honest I had never considered water ingress a problem until I read this thread. I never use a hose to wash the car; when driving in rain surely engine heat will soon evaporate the water; and if parking overnight or when rain is expected I always try to park slightly nose-up to avoid water running into the bonnet louvres.

Forty-odd years ago I remember using Holts Damp Start on plugs, ignition leads and distributor. Is this still available and could it be a solution for those who are concerned?

Yes, I cover the engine when I wash the car.

I once had problems with water around the spark plugs on the Duratec engine. This happened after a 200 km drive through massive rain. Getting an engine cover is on my todo list.

Harald

I do use a hose, I don't cover the engine bay, I do use a sponge (but ensure it is very clean and if dropped on the floor it is replaced), I do use quality products (Auto Glym) and the car looks fab and have never had a problem with 'water on the engine'....after all I drive in the rain, what are we to do, stop and hide under a bridge everytime the heavens open...it's a car!