Q. I have a method for engine cleaning, and I wonder if it can cause any damage. Often, while washing my car, the first thing I do is pop the hood and generously sprinkle the engine compartment with rich suds from a fresh bucket of soapy water.
I use a long-handled brush to spread the suds under the hood, throwing the suds with short movements of my lower arm, similar to the technique a priest may use to sprinkle Holy Water.
After a few minutes, I gently rinse the engine compartment with a broad fine mist from the hose nozzle. Should I notice a puddle, like on the air filter cover, I scoop it out with my hand. I then start the engine and let it run for five minutes.
Can this treatment harm anything under the hood? I have been doing this for years, but today’s column (Cars, Aug. 30) has prompted my inquiry. And leave the entomology to the entomologists, for Pete’s sake. P.H., Chicago
A. If you have been doing this for years and have never damaged anything, we can only assume one of two things: It does no damage, or you are the benefactor of divine intervention, Father (which comes from the Middle English “fader,” which comes from the Greek “pater”). Oh, you said entomologist, didn’t you? Never mind.
Q. I have a persistent hesitation problem with my 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, very noticeable at 60 to 70 m.p.h. When running with the air conditioner on, I get a subtle hesitation about every 20 to 30 seconds. I’ve tried unsuccessfully to have the dealer address the problem.
The last time, I took a technician for a ride. He did not see anything on his diagnostic monitor but told me to turn off the air conditioning and take the control off automatic. When doing that, no hesitation was noticed.
I can’t believe a powerful V-8 engine like that should hesitate when the small A/C pump comes on. S.C., St. Charles
A. What you are feeling is, indeed, the air conditioning compressor cycling on and off, but we were under the assumption that Jeep’s engine control module is notified as to when the compressor is about to be engaged so the engine speed can be increased to prevent driver annoyance. Sounds like a failure to communicate to us.
Q. I have been changing the oil and oil filter myself for about the last year or so (every 3,000 miles). I’ve noticed that when I pour the used oil into the now-empty bottles, I end up with only 4.25 quarts. I know some stays in the engine and a small amount is left in the oil filter as well.
Am I to assume that my engine is burning off the rest of the oil between oil changes? Is that normal or is it some indication of a problem I should be concerned with? G.DeH., Palos Hills
A. According to virtually all carmakers, using a quart of oil between changes, even a quart every 1,000 miles, is normal. Do not be concerned.
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Bob Weber is an ASE-certified Master Automobile Technician, having recertified every five years since 1978. Address your technical questions about cars and trucks to him in care of Motormouth, 17717 Silcott Springs Rd., Purcellville, Va., 20132. Send e-mail, including name and town, to MMTribune@netscape.net. Answers will be supplied only through the paper.
