Engine bay fire question?

1998 HONDA CIVIC

190,000 MILES

MIKEH93

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I had an engine bay fire that I put out with a BNC fire extinguisher that left a chemical powder. It used primarily sodium bicarbonate.

I tried cleaning it out with canned air, general cleaner, a detail brush and cloth, but I haven’t gotten all of it.

Should I try to rinse the bay out with the hose? I would avoid the fuse box and other electrical components. Is it okay as is? I would say I got rid of 50% of the dust but the other 50% I can’t get my hands to. Thanks.

Jun 20, 2023 at 7:41 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓Experienced Mechanic
110,240 POSTS

Hi,

You can use water but as you are aware, you don't want to get the electronics wet. Make sure they are covered.

Also, you may want to try blowing it out using a compressor and air gun. That way you could get much higher pressure.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

Jun 20, 2023 at 3:49 PM

MIKEH93

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Hey Joe,

I don't have access to this right now; I feel more comfortable doing this with air 100% however, I don't have the compressor.

Is it okay if it stays a bit dusty and caked in some areas for a few weeks while I find a compressor for a good deal?

Best,
Michael

Jun 21, 2023 at 4:17 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓Experienced Mechanic
110,240 POSTS

Hi,

That is a tough question to answer without seeing or knowing to what extent it is caked and where it is. Could you take a couple of pics of what you are dealing with and upload them so I can see what you are facing?

Let me know.

Take care,

joe

Jun 21, 2023 at 4:06 PM

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