Good Idea...Bad Idea?

mcmmotorsports · 03-18-06, 05:36

My car is on jack stands right now. I can't move it outside to wash and have a dilema. I have just received my #83 and #80 and should have my #21 on the 23rd.
My car was washed somewhat before I parked it. It is SLIGHTLY dirty/dusty and has a few water spots. Can I go over the whole car with a quick detailer like the NXT and begin my 3 step or should I wait until I can get the car outside to wash with the hose,soap and water? Plus, since I don't have my #21 yet, is it okay to leave the car in the garage for about 5 days without any sealant? #83 then #80 and then wait till I get my #21.

tailwind · 03-18-06, 05:42

I wouldn't use a quick detailer.

You could use QEW or a waterless wash like Spray & Wipe.

Setec Astronomy · 03-18-06, 07:54

If you are going to use #83, there really shouldn't be any problem with just QD'ing the car carefully, if it is just slightly dusty as you say. The car is fine in the garage without sealant, you'll just want to be careful before you apply the #21 that no dust has settled on the car, otherwise you will be back to QD'ing. Or, of course, you can cover it between polishing and sealing.

mrecktid · 03-18-06, 07:57

Is it safe to wash a car on jack stands?

gtbaka · 03-18-06, 09:26

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrecktid

Is it safe to wash a car on jack stands?

Don't know? What's the worst that can happen? The jack stands slip and the car falls?

I've had water running under a car on jack stands but never washed the car. I washed the wheel wells. Held up okay. I guess if there is no incline you should be all right.

But I'd go the QEW or Optimum No Rinse Wash & Shine route like the others suggested... if I wanted to be safe. (Safe in terms of getting all the dirt off, and safe in terms of not getting the garage all wet.)

mcmmotorsports · 03-19-06, 01:50

Maybe I will just wait 5 more days until the car is down off of the stands.

Accumulator · 03-19-06, 07:52

I've washed cars that were on jackstands (or otherwise immobile) plenty of times. I'd cover the brake rotors so they don't get all rusty, but other than that there shouldn't be any problems.

I wouldn't just QD it because more marring is more marring and that'll end up meaning less paint.

But, speaking as a guy whose RX-7 seems to *live* on jackstands (and never mind the XJS

) I'd just wait until you get it down. If you'd normally pull it outside to wash, it sounds like your garage might not be the optimal place to do that job anyhow (e.g., where'll all the water go?).