Community Forums

tomakat · 07-23-2013, 10:50 AM

A local mobile RV wash uses steam vapor jets to wash the RV instead of a pressure washer and I'm trying to decide if I want to use them or not. I'm wondering if this is a safe option for the clearcoat since this uses very little water and I don't want the dirt scratching my clearcoat? Anyone have any experience with this cleaning option?

VSPA · 07-23-2013, 04:21 PM

Sounds like it would be great for the undercarriage and the visible part of the engine, I can see that it would probably cut road grease on the body better that cold water and soap, but I have to know more about how much pressure and the actual temperature at the point that it hits the RV.

doc · 07-23-2013, 04:53 PM

Pressure? Live steam, under pressure, could play the dickens with a lot of things on any vehicle. FBP might fare a little better than plain filon. Would great to clean the radiator and any oil leaks.

Ray,IN · 07-23-2013, 04:57 PM

Decals might be at risk, as anything held on with glue. Sure like to have my drivetrain and undercarriage done though. Wonder if I can rent one?

Stan.Birch · 07-23-2013, 05:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tomakat

A local mobile RV wash uses steam vapor jets . .

Since RVs are for the most part glued together; and even normal summer heat in some parts of the country is enough to cause delamination, I wouldn't tempt fate by submitting my rig to a high-heat wash; and if you happen to have a Winnibego, they start to become unglued from the very first rain shower.

djbmsu · 07-24-2013, 08:19 AM

Been washing the RV the old fashion way and it still works. Takes a little effort but I am pretty sure I would never let anyone "steam" clean the clear coat/

evesely · 07-25-2013, 02:41 PM

Steam wash will affect the clear coat after several times. If you do not have a clear coat but have a wax coat, your finish will be dull and it will take a few wax applications to get the shine back.

spritz · 07-26-2013, 07:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by djbmsu

Been washing the RV the old fashion way and it still works. Takes a little effort but I am pretty sure I would never let anyone "steam" clean the clear coat/

X2 and I get alot of pleasure doing it also. I get all sorts of help from people walking by asking if I am washing & waxing it again.

Moonrover · 07-26-2013, 07:15 AM

I can see the value of warm water washing, but I'm not letting anybody come near my precious paint job with live steam. The old fashioned soapy bucket of warm water, soft mop on long handle, then gentle spray rinse from tap water ... has been working great for my wife.

vincee · 07-26-2013, 07:35 AM

Hey guys not to be a dork but it's gel coat, not clear coat. I agree with all that I would not use hot steam either. Put my vote in for the good old mop or soft brush with a long handle with a garden hose. Takes me 1 hour to wash and dry my 35ft. A. Never leave the driveway dirty, unless of course its raining.

tomakat · 07-26-2013, 08:05 AM

Thanks everyone for you input. I decided to do it the old fashion way with the bucket, soft brush, and hose.

JW brick · 07-26-2013, 08:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by djbmsu

Been washing the RV the old fashion way and it still works. Takes a little effort but I am pretty sure I would never let anyone "steam" clean the clear coat/

Can you tell me what wash products you like best for the body and how about the roof?

Stan.Birch · 07-26-2013, 11:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JW brick

Can you tell me what wash products you like best for the body and how about the roof?

It depends upon what you are washing. For my old relic with dull filon sides, black streaks, white streaks, etc. a strong solutions of Tide laundry detergent is the most effective.

But I don't think I would use that on a new Newmar rig with gel coat, clear coat exterior.

homeless · 07-26-2013, 11:19 AM

I like to wash my old rig with 25% bleach and water with a little dish soap so I can see where I am. The bleach leaves a nice sheen on my rig makes it look like it is waxed. I been using such a mixture on my house for years....