What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, I've seen too many good rigs ruined by a 'quick rinse' at the local servo after a weekend at Fraser or Robe. Salt and that fine coastal sand get into every crevice, and with our March heat still hitting 35-40 degrees, it bakes on fast. This is the routine I use for my own 4x4 to keep the rust at bay and the paint from clouding over.
The Gear You'll Need
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Pre-Start Checklist
What You'll Need
The Step-By-Step Process
Dry Sand Removal
Give the whole car a heavy rinse with plain water first. Don't touch the paint yet! Just blast the loose chunks of sand off the panels and out of the wheel arches.
Underbody Assault
Chuck your underbody attachment on. Spend a good 15 minutes here. Focus on the chassis rails, inside the bumpers, and above the fuel tank where salt loves to hide.
Salt Neutraliser Application
Mix your salt-neutralising wash and foam the entire car, including the undercarriage. Let it dwell for 5 minutes, but don't let it dry. This breaks the ionic bond of the salt.
Contact Wash
Use the two-bucket method. Start from the top and work down. Rinse your mitt after every panel to ensure you aren't dragging leftover sand across the paintwork.
Wheel and Tyre Scrub
Salt eats alloy wheels for breakfast. Get the brush into the lug nuts and behind the spokes. Give the tyres a good scrub to get that beach-grey look off them.
Engine Bay Wipe-down
Don't go nuts with the pressure washer here. Just a damp cloth to wipe salt spray off hoses and the battery. I've found salt in engine bays 50km inland before.
Final Inspection Checklist
What You'll Need
Watch Out
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