What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, I've seen too many pristine Hiluxes turn into rust buckets because someone thought a quick squirt at the local servo was enough. It's not. This checklist is for anyone who's just spent a weekend on the sand and wants to make sure their pride and joy survives the salt and that brutal March UV. We're talking underbody, hidden nooks, and getting that grit out of the paint.
What You'll Need
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Pre-Start Checklist
What You'll Need
The Clean-Up Process
The Deep Underbody Flush
Spend a solid 15-20 minutes here. Use a salt neutraliser and get the wand right into the chassis rails. If clear water isn't coming out, keep going.
Engine Bay Blowout
Mist the engine bay lightly (avoiding the alternator). Salt spray gets everywhere. I usually use a damp cloth for the sensitive bits instead of a jet.
The Pre-Wash Rinse
Rinse the whole body from the top down. Use plenty of water to flow the sand off the paint rather than rubbing it in.
Snow Foam and Soak
Layer the car in foam. Let it dwell for 5 minutes (don't let it dry!) to lift the remaining salt and fine grit off the surface.
Contact Wash
Use the two-bucket method. Wash a panel, rinse the mitt, repeat. Be extra gentle on the lower thirds of the doors where sand clings.
Detail the Nooks
Take a brush to the window seals, fuel cap, and door jambs. Sand loves to hide in the rubber seals and scratch your glass later.
Dry and Protect
Dry it thoroughly with a big microfibre towel. Apply your sealant to help bounce off that intense autumn UV and prevent salt from sticking next time.
Final Inspection Checklist
What You'll Need
A Few Words of Wisdom
Watch Out
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