Many motorcycle owners believe that washing a motorcycle while the engine is still running can cause serious problems such as a cracked engine block or decreased motorcycle performance. However, is this statement true? This article will discuss the facts and myths about washing a motorcycle while the engine is still hot.
What happens when you wash a motorbike with a hot engine?
A motorcycle that has just been used will certainly experience an increase in temperature. Especially if the motorbike is used for long trips for a long period of time. Here are some effects that may occur if the motorbike is at a high temperature and is immediately doused with cold water:
Extreme temperature changes
Motorcycle engines are made of metal material which will expand at high temperatures. Metal materials also have a natural reaction when exposed to cold, the metal will shrink. Extreme temperature changes when washing a motorbike while it is hot can cause deformation.
Potential for cracks
Still related to the first effect, sudden changes in temperature can cause cracks in some parts of the motorbike. Components such as the engine block and exhaust are more sensitive to temperature than other components.
Excessive water vapor can interfere with electricity
Water that evaporates quickly can spread throughout the motor, including the electrical area. This can cause excessive moisture. This excess moisture can damage sensors or electrical connectors and ultimately affect the performance of the motor.
The most sensitive parts of the motorbike
Not all parts of the motorbike will be directly affected by cold water, but there are some components that are most at risk if washed while still hot:
Engine block and exhaust
As mentioned above, the metal in the engine block and exhaust are at the highest risk if there is a sudden change in temperature. The most dangerous thing is that the exhaust or engine block will crack.
Chain and Gears
The lubricant in the chain and gears will harden if the motorbike is hot and immediately doused with cold water. This can cause the chain to dry out quickly and wear out.
Bolts and nuts in the engine area
Metal materials can expand when hot, and sudden shrinkage can loosen or even damage the bolts and nuts attached to the engine.
Myth or fact?
Let's answer the question that often arises among motorcycle users, does washing a motorcycle when it is hot make the motorcycle break down faster?
Fact
- Extreme changes can cause damage.
- Washing a motorcycle when the engine temperature is high will cause excess steam and risk the motorcycle's electrical system.
Myth
- The motorcycle engine will be damaged or broken immediately, this statement is wrong. This only happens in extreme conditions and rarely happens to modern motorcycles with high-quality materials.
- All types of motorcycles will definitely have problems if washed when hot. In fact, many modern motorcycles have been designed to withstand more extreme temperature changes.
The right time to wash a motorbike
Although not all motorbikes will experience damage and do not have a dangerous risk to the engine, prevention is still better than having to cure. Here are some safe tips that can be followed so that components are quickly damaged due to washing the motorbike which should be part of motorbike maintenance.
- Wait about 15-30 minutes after the motorbike is used. This avoids extreme temperature changes.
- Use water at normal temperature. Do not use water that is too cold or even ice water. Normal or warm temperature water is safer for metal materials.
- Start from the motorbike body. If you still want to wash the motorbike immediately, start from the body and wheels. Avoid spraying water directly onto the engine block or exhaust.
Conclusion
The motor should not be washed immediately when the engine is very hot. But washing it immediately at a high temperature also does not result in damage to the motor immediately. To stay safe, you can follow the tips above. 🚀🔥