Bottom of the car - to clean or not to clean

[Amorrisman]

All,

I have seen a few posts regarding the cleaning of the underside of moggies.
I know 'cleaning' is very general, but it this a worthwhile thing to do? The underside of mine is filthy.

C

[bmcecosse]

Yes...and then inspect carefully and decide how to deal with the rust......

[beero]

If it's the black oily mess under the transmission tunnel it is probably best left as it seems to be the best rustproofer going!
If it is mud under the arches and sills then definately clean it. The mud and salt holds the damp and speeds up rust. When clean Waxoyl is good (in my opinion, other treatments are available)

[dalebrignall]

yess clean under the wheel arches then waxoil it

[Amorrisman]

Real novice question - where is the best place to buy waxoil?

Thanks for the speedy replies

[bmcecosse]

Usually at an autojumble or classic car show. But the first thing to do is to inspect for rust - and deal with it! The waxoyl is a good preventive treatment - once all the rust has been removed.......

[Amorrisman]

And how would you clean the bottom?

[dalebrignall]

if its not been painted then a good old wire brush to get the worse of the rubbish off then as others have said check to see if its solid and if it is paint it with a brush with waxoil ,its good sttuff you can get it from halfords or any good motor factor ,or when you change the oil use the old engine oil ,paint it under the car it does help keep the rust at bay .

[bmcecosse]

Pressure wash it in the first instance!

[TimJNV]

What is the best way to protect under floor and wheelarches fom bare metal? And what would be original?