From a newspaper in Texas

I'm working on a story about detailing cars -- but doing it yourself. Can anyone help with tips on what works? What gear do you need and how much time can you expect to spend? And if you like, can you give reasons why it's better to let a professional do the work? Thanks for any help and I won't interrupt again.

buzz-
Welcome to the forum. You are not bothering anybody.

First off, use the search function and scan the archives for lots of good advice on techniques.
Anything with my name on it is trustworthy ( LOL) .

The main advantages a good pro detailer brings to the table are :
1) Ability to handle serious paint correction when wet sanding and rotary buffing are called for. Also : Odor remediation etc.

2) Speed and convenience.

3) Knowledge that allows him to get results without damaging the car's surfaces ( knowing safe chemicals and techniques ).

4) Access to proper carpet cleaning, steam cleaning and other equipment to do a better job.

Doug

buzz :
Some car washing tips for the amateur detailer- micro-scratches :

Avoid scratching your car up with micro-scratches when you wash and dry it. To keep from scratching the paint : A) Rinse your wash towel or mitt frequently to avoid rubbing dirt into the surface. Work from the top down, so that you don't move dirt from the lower areas to the cleaner upper areas. C) Wash with 100% cotton high quality towels or soft micro-fiber towels and remove the labels. (Sponges can trap dirt against the paint and scratch it ). D) Use plenty of soapy water as you wash to lubricate the surface. E) Avoid washing while the paint is hot or in direct sunlight. F) Start the wash process by hosing down the entire car to cool the surfaces and pre-soak.NOTE- If the car is very hot, let it cool in the shade first to avoid thermal shock on the paint, which can crack it. G) Use a good car wash soap that lubricates well ( Zaino, AutoMagic, Griot's, 3M, Meguiar's etc. ) - ( Dish liquids strip wax and may be harsh for the paint ). H) Use the pressure wand at a DIY car wash to avoid ecological damage and because the wand can blast away dirt from crevices and reduce scratching. Mix your car wash soap solution in a spray bottle so you wont need a bucket. Spray the solution onto a wet car, agitate and rinse. If you use the brush provided at the DIY wash, be sure it is a soft one, preferably boar's hair and rinse the brush before using it. I) Wash the wheels and tires last and use a separate brush, towel or mitt--brake dust is abrasive and you don't want to transfer it to the paint. J) Check to make sure the car is clean, so that you don't grind dirt into the finish with your drying towels. Don't rub the drying towel hard against the surface ; use either the 'drag' or 'blot' method. K) Launder your towels between washes, so you always start with clean ones. L) If you use a chamois, squeegee or other drying method that could trap dirt, make sure there is no dirt being dragged as you dry. If in doubt, stick to towels. M) Wash the car frequently, once a week if possible, because if it gets very dirty it will be hard to wash without scratching----the dirt having bonded tightly to the finish.

* Tip- Try to use the soft nappy surface of the towels only. Avoid using the decorative stitching and edges .
** Tip- If washing somewhere other than a DIY car wash, consider using two buckets, one for clean soapy water and one for rinsing the wash towel.
*** Tip-If you drop your towel on the ground, switch to a fresh one immediately.

Here's a link to an article advising car owners to avoid automatic car washes and instead wash the car by hand : [www.detailersassociation.com]
Doug



Edited 6 time(s). Last edit at 05/16/2009 04:39PM by Doug Delmont.