"Washing out a Em with soapy water"

Did it once with a 1973 Gottlieb King Pin Cabinet and Head. Turned out to be a disaster. The wood started swelling shortly after and many panels had to be replaced. The only thing I can think of is that it was stored in a damp location for a very long time as it had mold and mildew. From now on it is sanding, vacuum, prime, and paint only.

It's a crap shoot what a cabinet will do when water is applied, just a bad idea in general from my experience.

Just my 2 cents.