Hello, I believe that i just Hydrolocked my engine. I went through a puddle that was about 2' deep, and the car clicked and died. AEM CAI with no bypass valve and fender liners in place. I have driven through some pretty high waters before, but this one seemed to push it over the edge. Tried starting it again and nothing. I had AAA tow me home and how i am left with some decisions.


For anyone who has had experience with this, how should i go about it with my insurance company? I have comprehensive and a dang good insurance company. Secondly, where should i take my car to get it looked at/ and possibly put a new engine into? I am in the San Fernando Valley. Third, what should i do as far as a new engine goes? Brand new LS, or go with a GSR or Type R (which would probably have to be used)?


thanks a lot for your help guys.

 

If new Engine get GS-R

 

I had the same thing happen to me last year my insurance sucked. I ended up getting a GSR

 

First off search about hydro locking, there are some good threads about what to do to see if you have hurt the engine.

If you have indeed hurt the motor and insurance will take car of it try to get a GSR motor, You might have to put in a few extra $'s, but it would be well worth it.

Also before you do anything take the CAI off, and dont tell the insurance company that you had it on, as I am about 99% sure that will void any policy you have. Of course i guess this is some sort of insurance fraud......so be carefull and use you best judgement!!

 

Wait insurance covers something like that???

I just installed an Injen Cold Air Intake but I am already scared to drive in the rain!!
I am going to look into getting the bypass though so I can be a little safer. that or during the rainy season I will just switch back to the short ram

Michele

 

Well the guy said he drove through 2 feet of water... Can you avoid doing that? I've had my AEM CAI for 5 years with no bypass valve in all kinds of rain and water. I drove through a big puddle one time and that stalled the engine but, did no permanent damage. I learned my lesson from that... You just have to be conscious of how high the filter is from the ground and make sure it doesn't get completely submerged in water. I'm more worried about hydro-planing than hydro-locking! Especially this week in the bay area!!!

 

hmmm. Your in a pretty shitty position. Your insurance is not going to cover you. You have an aftermarket intake. This is the real cause of your motor's demise. Hate to say it, but you are really out of luck. i was reading another post not too long ago about a guy in your same situation. Try to search for "hydrolocked" and see what others have ad for outcomes. Your engine may not be toast, but in many cases, it is. Water, unlike oxygen, is un-compressable. The density remains constant. When water, or any liquid is taken into cylinders, the pistons cannot compress it, The valves are either forced open, or in some cases, the actual piston rod will bend. The stress rate of metal can easily be over taken by the sudden halt of velocity in the cylinders due to the overpressed pressure of the water and the dramatic drop in heat energy. If your lucky, you may have an engine worth fixing. I dont know how mechanical you are, but i would try to take a look at the engine's "guts." Good luck

 

good luck man

 

Damn that Sux.. but i wouldnt have driven thru 2ft of water. You sure you didnt soak ur ECU or wiring?

 

SORRY TO HEAR THAT

 

I experienced this same problem. I drove into a flooded street and my intake sucked up all the water. Try taking off your intake and opening up the intake manifold and see if water comes out and if water does then just let the water drain out. Thats what I did and it started again. Then youll need to change ur fluids and engine flush it a couple of times. But i drove my car for 2-3 months tell i blew a hole in my block, so if u decide to keep your engine then youll wanna think about changing your internals. I hope that helps and good luck to you.