Discussion forum for automobile detailers, amateur and professional. https://web-cars.com/phorum//list.php?1 Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:08:07 +0000 Phorum 5.2.23 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44834#msg-44834 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44834#msg-44834 "Never give price on a detail unless you get hands and eyeballs on it first. Secondly I tell all my customers to have the car ready to be cleaned meaning, Get all the crap out of the console, excess garbage, toys etc. I should be able to start cleaning immediately. I'm not your mom and I'm not there to pick up toys, clothes, tool boxes and what not. If I do have to pre clean I charge a extra $75.00 to $100."

"door jams when doin a interior job. Thats a good tip! "


"Friends and family , post ads, and do an incredible job every time to get referrals."


"Detailing is a hard work, l always laughed when a customer ask for a $50 detailing."

"I have heard that people don’t mind you using their water and outlets. Just simply ask “all I need to complete this job is a Spicket and outlet."

"you want to start off cheap build clients, and skills then start charging worth your time"

"Friends and Family first, with discounts for referrals. And then Facebook ads. My first couple of clients are “grandfathered in” with DEEEEP discounted rates. Just because they helped me get it off the ground. But otherwise it’s just offering little things for reviews or referrals and repeated business. I’m looking to start adding google ads..."

"Having a shop allows you to handle more business"

"Cash only. Can't track it, can't hack it, can't trace it"

"Miles driven alone saved me $8500 in taxes last year."

"Most peaple pay by card There s no way to líe to IRS"

"use the before and after pictures"

"do your familys car for free to gain experience"

"Where do the wise, make sure that you get a prenuptial agreement. Marriage is useless and hurts your business."

"I was detailing vehicles and boats 30+ yrs ago and I always dish soaped a car before any buffing. "

"I have been using DAWN for 40+ years.
Never has i seen any damages to my cars surface.
At the end I do spray a bead maker paint protector by P&S and that is it.
Good to go smooth and shinny."

"Dawn is my preferred wash for my 6 mo strips/clay bar/wax reapply. It's nice it's also cheap. If I need a little kick, I spray some bug remover into it."

"I worked in restaurants for over two decades. Regular old Dawn is the best dish soap out of all of them, including all the restaurant style detergents."

"I’ve been detailing for 20 years now. I always keep a few bottles of Dawn Powerwash (the foam sprayer) with me always. Works well for door jams where I don’t want to make a mess with the foam canon. Pretty good degreaser."

"I use Dawn once every 6 months to completely strip the car. Then i follow up with an iron remover, clay bar, compound, polish, and wax. Yes wax, im old school. In between i use a car soap from Maguires that protects the wax. My 20 year old paint looks phenomenal."]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sun, 23 Mar 2025 14:51:50 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44833#msg-44833 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44833#msg-44833 I think Chicago auto pros has about nailed it . If you want to do a good job, it has to take time . Here are some time estimates for doing a top-notch job step by step :
1) De-trash and vacuum , removing stickers and putting customer belongings in a clear bag in the trunk : 45 Min.
2) Wash exterior, remove bugs and tar , clay and dry : 45 Min.
3) Pre-spot carpets and upholstery , brush and extract : 45 Min.
4) Treat interior and exterior vinyl and rubber incl. heel wells : 60 Min.
5) Clean leather . Treat leather : 30 Min.
6) Cleaning of interior surfaces, headliner , windows 120 Min.
7) Compound, polish , wax 45 Min.
8) Final inspection and adjustments 15 Min.]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Thu, 13 Oct 2022 05:37:58 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44832#msg-44832 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44832#msg-44832
One principle applies here : "As a rule of thumb, the only way to get rid of an odor permanently is to remove the source of the odor " .

In some cases, you may need to remove carpets, upholstery and more . Be careful with promises because smells often return . Example : It isn't easy to remove cigarette smoke residue that has built up behind panels, in the headliner and under the carpets .]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Tue, 14 Jun 2022 23:20:22 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44831#msg-44831 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44831#msg-44831
Unlike in the past, there are now some dynamite YouTube channels devoted to detailing . Unfortunately, YouTube is now junked up with advertising and you must buy premium service to make YouTube enjoyable and ad-free . ( The site has defenses against ad-blockers you download off the Web ) .

Channels worth exploring include -

Apex Detail ,[www.youtube.com] whose Web Site is : [apexsurfaceprotection.store]

Ammo NYC : [www.youtube.com] Web Site : [ammonyc.com]

Chicago Auto Pros : [www.youtube.com] ...... Web Site : [www.carsupplieswarehouse.com]

ChrisFix: [www.youtube.com]]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sat, 01 Jan 2022 05:53:44 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,37637,44830#msg-44830 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,37637,44830#msg-44830 Len_A Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Thu, 09 Dec 2021 00:31:14 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44829#msg-44829 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44829#msg-44829 1) You always over-estimate profits and underestimate expenses .

2) Everything you do to a car adds to the overall effect you are going for .

3) Experience will teach you to start off with a product strong enough to do the job .

4) " Dealers do not want to pay you very little . They want to pay nothing ! "

5) " It takes almost as long to clean a clean car as it does to clean a dirty car " .

6) Never agree to a job without seeing the car .

7) Sooner or later, you will damage a car you are detailing , maybe by opening the door and hitting your cart .

8) There's always some other guy doing it for less until he realizes he is operating at a loss . Dealers always find one of these guys to do their jobs .

9) The only reason a dealer would pay you to detail is if it is cheaper than paying his own employees .

10) Some of the people you see employed in detailing look like they could use a little " detailing " themselves .

“You have to be frequent before you get good.” ( Oscar Gil--Detailgroove )
"Your customers do not determine your worth or skill." (Oscar Gil )]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Fri, 29 Oct 2021 21:07:00 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44828#msg-44828 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44828#msg-44828 1) Will I go mobile, fixed location or both ?

2) How will the weather in my area affect my business ?

3) Do people in my area have a desire for a detailer or do dealers in my area represent most of the market ?

4) How much will it cost to get started and where can I borrow money if I need it ?

5) What will my monthly expenses ( the " nut " ) total ?

6) What will I need to gross per hour to turn a profit ?

7) Can I do better by buying one or two existing detail businesses , thereby acquiring equipment for very little money and starting off with an existing customer base ?

8) Is detailing where my money will be made or will PDR, Touch-up, PPF, tint or accessory sales be my profit center ?]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Fri, 22 Oct 2021 20:13:02 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44827,44827#msg-44827 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44827,44827#msg-44827 Jack Maioffer Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Fri, 22 Oct 2021 15:44:21 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44826#msg-44826 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44826#msg-44826
" Ceramic waxes " are another matter entirely . I see no reason to believe that the latest " breakthrough " ceramic spray-on wax will live up to its claims . I've been burned by enough miracle products to ignore this latest hype . Remember " nano ", " resin " , " poly " , " silicone ", " Teflon " , " synthetic " , " lifetime " " Dimethylpolysiloxane, Bees wax , Brazilian Carnauba, White Carnauba , " Pure Carnauba " , " Once-A -Year " and other hype words ?
I am sticking with Zaino's polymer sealants ( www.zainostore.com )

Sorry to see no one is posting here anymore ...????????????????????????????????????????????????????????/]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Thu, 03 Jun 2021 02:36:57 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,37637,44825#msg-44825 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,37637,44825#msg-44825 -------------------------------------------------------
> Bill you have repeated nothing that is not already
> on the Polycharger website, sales BS.
>
> You have done nothing to explain to the public
> what Polycharger is, which is nothing but measured
> amino-functional silicone, which is what I have
> tried to tell you is what is in AT5, like all
> other paint sealants.
>
> INCORRECT. Tonnes do but what I have made and
> custom blended is not a polymer. it is glass and
> titanium. put it on and it turns to glass.
> measure your car with a thickness gauge afterwards
> and the reading increases.
> usually 110 microns from factory with our
> australian cars, after a treatment become 140 -
> 200 depending on how many times its been buffed on
> with orbital at speed 1 with the proper pads
>
> POLYCHARGER is not needed because I dont buy
> consumer grade products or use the crap sealants
> that Autogeek and Proper Auto care use. Its light
> years behind what I am using

I know this is old, but this was too tempting to respond to, to pass up.

Crap sealants? Seriously? I'm nearly 60 years old, and have been detailing cars since I was 15. I've bought several excellent products from Autogeek, Proper Auto Care and Autopia.. I've used Meguiar's M20 Polymer Sealant since the late 1970's, and have had it last 9 months to a year on cars garaged overnight and driven and parked out doors during the day. I've M21 Synthetic Sealant 2.0 for the last 7 years - equally as durable as M20. I've been pleasantly surprised by Meguiars Ultimate Liquid Wax, and seen it last a year. Outstanding for a polymer sealant that I can go buy at Walmart.

I've bought Collinite products from Autogeek, as well as Finish Kare. Several products that have lasted a year, easily, and stood up to harsh Detroit, Michigan winters.

Where do you get off calling these brands "crap"? And AT5? Seriously a PTFE product? Spare me. I sold PTFE for years - including bulk PTFE resins. PTFE resins can not bond to any paint, can not perform any protection on paint and that comes straight from DuPont, BASF, PPG, and Axalta Coating Systems (formerly DuPont's paint manufacturing division).]]> Len_A Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Fri, 28 Jun 2019 19:57:12 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44824#msg-44824 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44824#msg-44824
The last task in a detailing job is a final check to see that everything was done and that it was done correctly . Make a checklist to mark off as you do the inspection . Have a kit handy for touching up missed areas .
First, Check the interior from various angles and do anything minor that still needs doing : Adjust the seats so they are even . Aim the dash vents straight . Brush the floor mats in one direction to lift the pile . Aim the rearview mirror . Set the radio to " Off " . Leave the customer's belongings in a clear plastic bag in the interior or trunk .
Second : Check inside the trunk to make sure the spare tire was reinstalled ( if applicable ) .
Third : Check the Engine compartment ( if applicable ) . Look at it from 4 different directions .
Last : Look down the sides and top of the vehicle for un-buffed wax etc. Give the car a final wipe with a towel if you want .]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sun, 09 Sep 2018 01:08:00 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44822#msg-44822 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44822#msg-44822 1) Long-handled Boar's hair truck brush .
2) Long-handled mop .
3) Mitt
4) Wheel brush
5) Wheel well / fender brush
6) Tire Brush
7) Bug Getter and 3M Dobie
8) Scotchbrite delicate scrubbers ( pink )
9) Paint brushes, soft detailing brushes, toothbrushes
10) plastic putty knife and plastic razor blades .
11 ) Razor Blade scraper for stickers on glass .
12) Swiss Army Knife by Victorinox
13) Wax applicator pads
14) towels
15) Spray bottles
16) Sponges for dressings
17) Leaf Blower for drying car .
18) Long RV bug scrubber / squeegee tool .
19) Grout brush
20) Brass brush for battery terminals
21) Soft cosmetics brush for dashboards
22) Carpet brushes
23) Leather seam brush
24) Pet hair brush
25) Lint Roller
26) Window cleaning tool from Invisible Glass or Windex
27) Sanding block
28) 0000 Steel wool
29) Cheap sponge mops
30) Polishing bonnets and pads
31 ) Soft brush for tire dressing
32 ) ladders
33) Scaffold for RVs
34) Buffers
35) Extractor
36) Steam cleaner
37) Metal platforms that fold to use when working on high vehicles ( If you use two, you don't need to move them when you move to the other side of the vehicle ).
38) A makeshift block to keep cords or hoses from catching on tires as you pull them around the car .
39) Wheel woolie or homemade tool to reach wheel barrels .]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sat, 29 Apr 2017 18:11:25 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44821#msg-44821 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44821#msg-44821 Another hazard detailers face is metal that is sharp or rusted . Look before you wipe .
You may someday run into a critter that has taken up residence in or under a vehicle . Always look under a seat before you reach under it . If you encounter a snake, get away and let proper authorities handle it . If there are mice, regard them as a serious biohazard because their droppings can spread Hantavirus .
If you find something that looks like an IED or explosive, don't touch it . Move everyone a good distance away and call the authorities .
You can't go wrong by wearing gloves and eye protection at all times . No chemical you use is going to be good for you and just because some lack dire warnings on their labels doesn't mean they are safe .

Proper attire not only looks professional but guards against injury . Avoid jewelry and metal clothing decorations that can get caught in machinery .


The Mobileworks forum ( www.mobileworks.com ) has a thread that deals with heat injury from detailing in the hot sun. Here are some of the suggestions the pros offered :
1) Gatorade or Powerade
2) Snacks, breaks in the shade
3) Use a canopy. You can mount castors on your canopy so it can be moved around the car as the sun moves
4) Stop working when the temperature is too high
5) Run the car's AC as you do the interior
6) A cooling neck wrap from REI
7) A wet microfiber towel on your neck

I'll add a few of my own suggestions :
8) Run cool water over your wrists to cool your whole body.
9) Rinse your face with cool water
10) Consider a Camelback or other hydration pack to wear as you work, so you can sip constantly.
11) Wear microfiber clothes that wick away moisture and breathe well.
12) Avoid sunburn too. Wear a boonie hat and long sleeves.

Use proper scaffolding to tackle large vehicles . Use sturdy ladders and only use them on flat surfaces . Wear sturdy, non-slip work boots instead of sneakers .

There are sturdy work platforms to stand on , made by ladder companies and sold by Lowes and other stores .

Keep water handy to flush eyes and skin in emergencies . Also, keep a book of MSDS ( material safety data sheets ) on any chemicals you use professionally .

Be cautious about using flammable and combustible products such as lighter fluid, kerosene , mineral spirits, WD-40, solvent-based dressings, turpentine and so forth . Never use gasoline to clean anything .

Carry a fire extinguisher in your mobile unit and keep one at your house or shop too .

Get a first aid kit and maybe a CPR mask .

If you remove an air bag or an air bag-equipped seat, follow the proper safety procedure . Usually, that means disconnecting the car battery for 10 minutes to allow the air bag to lose electrical power .

When replacing or cleaning a car battery, take off all metal jewelry first . If you work on the car battery, disconnect the ground cable . To remove a battery, disconnect the hot cable next and then the hold-down bolts . To avoid back strain, use a good battery lifting tool like the ones from Snap-on Tools . Wear eye protection and keep an emergency water supply on hand . Do not smoke or light anything over a battery . You can wash the battery with baking soda or specialized battery cleaning products .]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Thu, 27 Apr 2017 02:46:55 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44820#msg-44820 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44820#msg-44820 Here are some marketing ideas various forum members contributed in the past :

* Doing six jobs for free to start the referral process.
* Sending press releases to local newspapers.
* Having your vehicles lettered and decorated professionally.
* Passing out business cards and asking for referrals from doormen, garages, parts shops, speed shops, employees of assisted living communities, car club officials, used car dealers, car salesmen etc.
* Advertising in car trader and truck trader type publications that you can detail a car for sale to make it sell faster and for more money, that the " buyer pays for the detail " if the car sells for hundreds more than it would without the detail.
* Hanging around car washes and asking customers about their cars' needs.
* Contracting with a car wash to do express detailing for them.
* Visiting real estate offices and leaving literature in all of the salesmens' mail trays ( You can ask to give a short talk at their next sales meeting on keeping their cars looking and smelling good for their clients. An agent's car is his office.
* Displaying a car with one-half detailed, at a car show ( Bud's idea ).
* Joining the local Chamber of Commerce, the PDTA etc.
You'll need a nice business card and a broshure ( one forum member used a software package called Print Shop to make his own broshures on his home computer ) in the same color scheme. Cabela's has a line of personalized work clothes, which you can find on the Web. Compile an email list of contacts and customers.
Bud has repeatedly cautioned against low pricing and emphasizing price. Push your quality, safety, convenience and the benefits the customer will get from a spiffy car.

Some areas have public access cable T.V. You can produce your own show free.

I'm told that MySpace is not just for kids. You can set up a MySpace page as a way to keep in touch with customers, etc. Some people have had success with a mature, professional approach.

A guy on the Detail City forum said he places ads on Craigslist. He also gives his customers vinyl decals to put on their cars' windows to advertise his web address.
Others said they do free details for charities, which leads to referrals.
Some of the participants warned that when you advertise, you must be prepared to handle all of the business the ads generate.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Bud Abraham :
* Direct Mailing to Your Customer List. If you have these kinds of customers on your mailing list then you should be mailing to them on a regular basis. At least every 3 months to remind them it's time for a wax or light carpet shampoo. Or, to let them know of any new services you offer like PDR; Paint Touchup or Carpet Recoloring or Dyeing.
* Strategic Alliances. You need to develop strategic alliances with other auto service businesses that can refer you business: body shops; luxury car repair shops; trim & restyle shops; automotive electronic shops, even the Service Managers of dealerships. They are always being asked about detail services and usually refuse the work, or if they know a detailer they refer business to them. It could be you.
* Direct Mail. This is the best way to target the customers you want. You can buy lists by neighborhood; profession; income; the car driven, etc. Personally, I like a personal and short letter, in a #10 envelope with a small menu card of what you do. The letter introduces you and your business and services and ends with a promise at quality service. Don't be discouraged if you don't get an immediate response, you are taking the first step, getting the target customer aware of your business. When they are ready you have a huge chance of getting business.
* Direct Sales. You need to spend a dedicated amount of time each week calling on businesses in your area. The owners of these businesses are the type of customers you want to attract along with their employees....
* The Calendar. Develop a calendar that lists what you will do at what time of the year. Make it detailed and include any special or services you want to promote (like Paint Touchup after the winter); the mailing dates, even include the material. Also, list the days that you will be making your direct sales calls.
* Customer Source Log. Key to effective marketing and advertising is to track the source of every customer that comes in, sold or not. In one column list the four marketing methods discussed, plus any other methods you are using, such as yellow pages. Make another column for the weeks of the month and still another titled "total". Also make a column titled "closing".
Keep these basic principles of marketing in mind:

1. That which is measured improves. Just the act of measuring an activity makes you pay attention to it. As you make your marketing plan for 2005, determine to measure everything
2. Talk to everyone possible about your business. You should print your business cards in large quantities and hand them out freely. To whom do you give a business card? Give it to sales clerks, customers, gas station attendants, business associates such as your insurance agent, and most importantly, to your customers. It is easier to get business from your existing clients than to find new ones. So many businesses spend a fortune searching for new customers while ignoring those that already know and trust them. Your marketing must include an organized plan to contact your previous customers.
3. Ask every customer for referrals. If you have provided your customer with a great cleaning experience they will normally be happy to provide you with referrals to their friends and family.
4. Market to the type of customer you would like to serve. Not identifying your target market is one of the most common and serious marketing mistakes a company can make. Determine what type of customer you are trying to attract and what marketing methods will reach them.
Visit the " UpFlip " channel on YouTube for mobile detailers giving the latest ideas .

From DetailGroove ( Oscar Gil ) :
Here are a few ways to create content:
1. Before and after photos and videos
2. Cleaning process (video)
3. Photo of the tools and products you used
4. Video talking about the process
5. Time lapse video of the cleaning
You need your phone and maybe a mini tripod for your phone for better stability. There’s plenty of free apps you can use to do basic edits. None of that should get in the way of creating content.
...You can have them do any of the following:
1. Post a before and after photo with your Instagram handle. 2. Tell coworkers at work about you.
3. Share your Story or repost your image on Instagram.
4. And more...
There’s plenty of options you can do! The important part is you ask for the referral. ....After every detail you complete, you need to ask for a review...
There’s plenty of marketing channels to choose from:
1. Facebook/Instagram ads
2. Facebook/Instagram organic
3. Google Ads
4. Search engine optimization (SEO) 5. Instagram
6. Referrals
7. Word-of-mouth
8. YouTube
9. YouTube ads]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Thu, 27 Apr 2017 02:17:33 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44819#msg-44819 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44819#msg-44819
If the paint has circular swirl patterns scratched into it , those are swirl marks or " holograms " .

To get an accurate view of the paint, first wash the car and remove as much wax as you can . Dawn dish liquid, Griot's Paint Prep, and dilute Simple Green will all remove wax . You can try rubbing alcohol too .
Run your fingers over the finish with a piece of cellophane or plastic wrap to improve sensitivity . If you feel bonded contaminants, the finish could benefit from claying .
If the paint is chalky or dull, try some compound or polish on a test spot to see what products are called for to restore the shine .
Portable halogen work lights and such can be a help in checking paint condition .]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Mon, 24 Apr 2017 04:11:02 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44818#msg-44818 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44818#msg-44818
I've used white vinegar, which is mildly acidic, to remove water spots . This method is often recommended but didn't work well for me .
Griotsgarage.com and zainostore.com have glass polishes [www.zainostore.com] that are claimed to remove water spots . I tested a similar product that was made by Rain-X but I only used it on glass shower doors . Results seemed good .
I've read that you can clay the windows to remove water spots but never tried it .
The old trick of using 0000 steel wool risks scratching , so use it AYOR .]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Mon, 24 Apr 2017 03:45:35 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44811,44811#msg-44811 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44811,44811#msg-44811 Pro-Techt Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Mon, 15 Aug 2016 17:05:33 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44808#msg-44808 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44808#msg-44808
1) Household window multi-surface cleaner ( Windex Multi-task Orange )
2) Auto Glass Cleaner ( Invisible Glass )
3) Ammonia ( Parson's Ammonia )
4) Glass polish ( Auto Glym Glass Polish )
5) Carpet Spot Remover ( L.A.'s Totally Awesome )
6) Carpet Shampoo ( AM Carpet Shampoo )
7) Special Stain Removal Kit
8) Car Wash Soap ( Meguiar's Soft Wash Gel )
9) Dish Washing Liquid ( Dawn Original )
10) De-waxer ( Griot's Paint Prep )
11) Dressings for vinyl/rubber/tires/engines/wheel wells ( Meguiar's #40 )
12) Plastic cleaners and polishes ( Plexus )
13) Metal Polishes ( Meguiar's All Metal Polish )
14) Chrome Polish ( Mother's )
15) Compounds and polishes ( Optimum, Zaino, Menzerna, 3M Ultra-Fine, Griot's Machine Polish #3 etc. )
16) Wax and cleaner/wax ( Zaino's Z-2, Z-5, Z-CS, Z-AIO ) [www.zainostore.com]
17) Clay ( Malm's Deracer, Zaino Clay Bar, AM )
18) Detailing Spray ( Griot's Speed Shine, Zaino Z-6 )
19) Bug and Tar Remover/adhesive removers ( Goo Gone )
20) Degreaser ( Mean Green etc. )
21) All Purpose Cleaners ( Spray Nine, Simple Green etc. )
22) Leather Dressing ( Griot's, Meguiar's Medallion, Zaino Leather In A Bottle )
23) Leather soap ( Lexol )
24) Fragrances ( AutoMagic )
25) Trim Restorer ( Forever Black )
26) Alcohol ( generic )
27) Heavy-Duty Vinyl Cleaner ( Meguiar's )
28) Interior Cleaner ( Griot's Garage )
29) Distilled water ( generic )
30) Lubricant for door latches ( Siloo white grease )
31) Undercarriage Dressing : ( Adams Polishes, Griot's ) .
32 ) Interior Cleaner ( Griot's )
33) Exhaust System Paint
34) Touch-up paint / primer
35 ) Dish soap ( Dawn, Palmolive ) for wheels and de-waxing
36 ) Rubbing alcohol .
37 ) Odor Eliminator ( Meguiar's )
38) Undercoating
39) Stain Guard
40) Quick spray wax product ( Zaino Clear Seal )
41) Gloss Enhancer ( Zaino Grand Finale )
42 ) Special Interior Detailer ( Adam's Total Interior Detailer )
43 ) Odor Neutraizer ( Adam's, )
44) HD Interior Glass Cleaner ( Adam's Brilliant Glaze )
45) Vinegar
46) Rubbing Alcohol
47) WD-40
48) Touch-up paint
49) Undercoating spray
50) Spray paints ( Clearcoat, Flat black etc. )]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sun, 07 Jun 2015 22:30:00 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44807#msg-44807 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44807#msg-44807 1) Using a one-step wax product.
2) Wiping off the engine by hand instead of washing it.
3) NOT dressing the interior or engine unless the customer wants it done.
4) Packing your Interior Cleaning Kit in a tub, carry-all or bucket you take into the car with you so everything is at hand.
5) Making only one trip around the interior, wiping every panel and all glass as you go.
6) Using a powerful Shop Vac or Ridgid Shop Vacuum along with hand brushing and an attachment made for cars.
7) Claying while the car is wet so you only have to wipe it dry once ( note that this may decrease the life of clay ).
8) Applying wax with an orbital buffer and wiping it off with an orbital fitted with terry or micro bonnets. If you run out of bonnets, use a terry towel and catch it when it works its way out from under the buffer.
9) Using one product for all dressing and dressing everything at the same time so you reach for the bottle and towels only once.
10) Using a wax that is easy to work fast with by machine .
11) Laying all tools and supplies out on a cart in the order that they will be used .
12) Use long-handled tools such as mops, truck brushes , RV bug getters, squeegees etc. as appropriate . Cheap sponge mops are great for applying dressing to cladding on Jeeps and other such vehicles and can be used to apply some types of pure waxes to paint .
_________________________________________________________________________________
Another list from past threads :
1) Keeping spare spray bottles of chemical so you don't have to interrupt a detail when a bottle runs dry ; simply grab the spare.

2) Automated systems such as the Chemspence system .

3) Bud's recommendation to have everything laid out as in an operating room, so everything is at hand and in the order it will be used.

4) Trying to reduce the number of products needed. An example would be using one dressing for all vinyl and rubber-and maybe leather.

5) Using stong cleaners and degreasers that require little agitation.

6) Using a one-step wax.

7) Applying and buffing wax with an 11" orbital buffer.

8) Employing a vapor steam device.

9) Doing another task while wax dries, degreaser dwells etc.

10) Checking the work after each step because returning to the step later will be more time-consuming.

11) Using dressings that can be applied and left to dry ; not ones requiring multiple applications and wiping off of excess.

12) Use of a set procedure because repetition builds speed.

13) Vacuuming and air blasting thouroughly but extracting with a "once-over" to avoid soaked fabrics and long drying times.

14) Replacing filthy floor mats when necessary instead of cleaning them.

15) Assembling an interior cleaning kit to be carried into the car with you so you needn't reach back out for supplies.

16) Task Specific procedures, in which the process is done by tasks rather than by areas of the car. Examples include degreasing engine and wheel wells at the same time or dressing everything in one step.

17) Area Specific procedures in which you do every task in one area and move on.

18) An air-powered brush machine for carpet shampooing.

19) Grouping your products on the shelf by purpose instead of brand name.

Here is a list of tools that a well-equipped shop can use to turn out work quickly :
1) I include a stiff concrete brush here for getting mud out of truck wheel wells or for scrubbing filthy floor mats.

2) Drillbrush. I've since tried it on carpet stains and was impressed with its rugged construction and performance. The Drillbrush is is made of stiff bristles that should work well on tires but are too harsh for most wheels. Now I really must try the other drill-mounted tools. On another forum, someone said he cleans wheels with a drill by mounting a wooden stick and attaching microfiber towels to it with rubber bands.

3) A grout brush. These can be found at Home Depot and let you get dirt out from around seat track mounts and other tight areas.

4) Soft cosmetics brushes for fine dasboard dusting.

5) Natural-bristle paint brushes with the metal part taped to prevent scratching. These can be used for wheel-cleaning and interior dusting ( in conjunction with a vacuum cleaner ).

6) Plastic putty knife for general scraping.
Do something else while a product dwells or dries. No standing around.

If you shampoo early in the job, there is more time for the fabric to dry out by itself, reducing the need for a hair dryer and other time-consuming work.
Check each step after you complete it and correct whatever was missed.
You can't afford to find defects and stop what you are doing to correct them
constantly. Finish up with a quality control inspection at completion.

For greatest speed, try to touch everything only once and work in a linear fashion ; vacuuming carpets and mats from front to back. Apply wax sparingly so there is less to wipe off. Vacuum thoroughly so less shampooing is needed and wash thoroughly so you can wax without slowing down to remove tar etc.
Keep at it and your speed will grow. Make note of which operations are eating time ( wheels? removing wax residue from trim ? Stubborn spots ? ).
And never agree to do a car without inspecting it first !]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sun, 07 Jun 2015 22:16:36 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44806#msg-44806 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44806#msg-44806 FULL DETAIL PROCEDURE

De-trash and Vacuum, Remove Stickers

Equipment : vacuum cleaner, carpet brush, trash can, pre-spotter chemical, razor blades, clear plastic bag ( for owner property ).

Remove exterior debris from hood surrounds, etc.
Remove trash
Brush and vacuum . Remove floor mats
Pre-spot carpet stains and agitate

Wash Bay

Remove spare tire. Pre-soak entire car with plain water ( includes engine )
Spray degreaser on all lower areas including lower half of door jambs, gas door and spray engine compartment. Agitate . Clean spare tire and tire compartment.
Rinse the degreaser and rotate the wheels to clean all areas
Apply soap with a wash mitt and rinse
Spray remaining bugs and tar, agitate and rinse
Dry the car with two cotton towels. Re-install spare tire .
Inspect .
Pressure wash floor mats if applicable

Interior

Start in passenger side front
Wipe headliner, visors, dash, glove box, passenger door
Clean passenger carpet and seat
Wipe passenger door jamb
Move to passenger side rear and clean that area same way
Move to driver side rear and clean
Move to driver side front and clean
Inspect. Use compound on bad scuffs .

Dressing

Dress all vinyl and rubber inside and out including tires and engine compartment, wheel wells . Correct and coat discolored vinyl as needed. Undercoat wheel wells if applicable
Dress leather seats

Exterior

Clay
Compound
Polish
Wax
Remove any wax residues from emblems, etc.
Clean windows and mirrors inside and out

Final Prep

Check to see that all interior surfaces are dry
Reinstall floor mats and trunk mats
Install temp floor covers
Inspect all work
Adjust and line up all vents, seats, visors, mirrors, switches etc.
Apply scent if applicable
___________________________________________________________________________________



From Stephen Britz :
* All cars whether they are new or used get a walk around inspection to check for damage, loose items, and to decide what work needs to be done.


**PREPPING
Wet work/prepping the car for detailing is a very important part of your detail, a bad prep job will send you right back to the wash bay for a re-do.
This is where a detailers experience and knowledge of chemicals really pays off.

1. Shut off the vehicle, Make sure the vehicle is in a cool place and is cool to the touch, this includes the wheels.

2. Open all doors, take out the mats and place them where they will be cleaned, open gas hatch, trunk, hood.

3. Pre-spot the mats, Cover any items that should be covered before pressure washing. Wet down the surrounding area of the vehicle that will be degreased with wash soap and mitt or flooding with water. Then spray your degreaser under the hood, the engine compartment, door jams, gas hatch, trunk jam.

4. If using a hot water pressure washer, care should be taken not to burn the paint or other items such as wheel covers, rubber, and don't burn stickers off the paint. In most dealerships the mats can be dealt with in two ways; after pre-spotting, friction scrub with stiff carpet brush and carpet shampoo, then extract or after pre-spotting scrub with stiff carpet brush and carpet shampoo and pressure wash, then extract water and hang dry.

5. Cleaning wheels and tires; most professional detailing chemical companys have good tire and wheel cleaners that are safe for tires and wheels, since we are talking about used cars we are talking about a lot of different types (makes and models) of wheels and covers. It is important to understand the effect that certain types of cleaners have on these various wheels. Non-acid are the safest and depending on their formulation can produce the desired affect. Cleaners with acid are very intense and can do a very nice job in the right hands, but I will use the acid cleaner as a last resort in most cases.

6. At this point you can remove any unwanted stickers, and writing from painted, plastic, or glass surfaces using the appropriate tool for the job. Plastic razor blades, steel razor blades, and heat gun are common tools.

7. Exterior washing; if you found in the initial walk around inspection of the vehicle, the surfaces to be rough to the touch, there will be at least two steps here; first washing by hand thoroughly, and the other is claying the surface to remove contaminates not removed by hand washing and rinsing.

8. Next, dry car thoroughly and remove any road tar, tree sap, road paint etc. Also at this time you can dress the engine or leave it undressed depending on dealerships request. The dressing should be water-based, solvent-based dressings on the engine have a low flash point and can catch on fire.

**INTERIOR
1. Trunk area should be cleaned thoroughly; trunk jam wiped clean, under the trunk lid wiped cleaned and vacuumed where applicable, tools and spare tire removed, cleaned, and placed where they belong, any stains are to be removed from carpet, felt, other materials in the trunk.

2. Seating area; remove all garbage from vehicle in side pockets, under and between seats, dump ashtrays, clean glove box, with air blower and detailing brush blow out and clean all vents, while thoroughly vacuuming interior dry friction scrub the carpets and fabric to stand the pile and fabric up.

3. Clean headliner first working your way down to the carpet area. Use an appropriate cleaner on the headliner that will not loosen the thin adhesive
holding it in place. Great care should be taken here.

4. Next, clean vinyl/leather w/appropriate cleaner being careful not to spray it directly on the material where electronics are present. Unless you are working in an area like seating surfaces, etc. where the need of a scrub brush applies, spraying chemical on toweling, brushes, etc.

5. Cleaning carpets and upholstery; pre-spot carpet and seat stains with a pre-spotter for this purpose (not engine degreaser, window cleaner, etc.). After pre-spotter has had time to dwell, add friction scrub with stiff carpet brush and carpet shampoo, being careful not to use more shampoo than is actually needed, Then rinse the carpets and seats with an extractor. If this is done right, the interior should be slighty damp and residue free decreasing re-soiling and drying time.

6. Dressing vinyl/leather; do this before you clean the inside windows. If you do get some on the windows you only have to clean the windows once, instead of cleaning the windows twice if you start out cleaning the windows before dressings and get some on the window. Water-based dressings for vinyl, and a leather conditioner for leathers after cleaning. Dressings applied by means of an applicator instead of spraying them on the material directly are alot less messy and even more professional.

7. Windows; many used cars in a dealership will have aftermarket tinting and many will have factory tint, it is important to be mindful of this before attempting to clean the windows. Removing price stickers and other advertisements can end in disaster if you run a razor blade through the tinting. Also, certain window cleaners can do damage over time to the film tint. Roll all windows down when applicable to clean the tops of the windows that fit in between or sit outside the window seals.

8. Odor elimination cases of animal urine, cigarette smoke, mold and mildew, etc, can take up a considerable amount of the dealerships and detailers time to really eliminate the problem source. Tools such as a regimen of special chemicals, thermo-fogging equipment, Ozone generator other cleaning techniques may come in depending on the severity of the problem. This takes a highly skilled detailer to deal with these issues, there will be many.

**EXTERIOR
1. During our first walk around inspection of the painted surface we got a pretty good idea of what needs to be done. Now that the surface has been washed, clayed, and is smooth we may see cob-webbing type scrathes, deep scratches that go through the clearcoat or even all the way through to the metal, light to medium scratches, clearcoat peeling, oxidation light/heavy, bird dropping etches, swirl marks, water-spotting, etc. There are many conditions than can occur. In many dealerships including ours the detailers simply do not have the time to create perfect finishes on all cars, the cars are simply made to look much better and clean. We do deal with certain issues on the surfaces as they come up per sale by the request of the customer. Some cars may only need a one step application such as a cleaner wax which cleans, waxes, makes the car look glossy, wipe off any residue and it's ready for the lot, some need the scratches cut out, surface polished, then waxed, some just need a good cleaning and wax application only, there are many variations of surface issues and there are products and pads for every situation. The goal is to keep the confidence level high so that the customer has a genuinely positive experience when in the process of purchasing a vehicle. The way the car looks is the first thing they see.

2. Masking/Taping trim pieces and moldings is a good way to protect yourself from damage to these parts, people will appreciate the time you take to protect their investment. Being a quality minded person means nothing if you do not implement it into every job you do. Choosing the proper pads and products for each job takes time and experience from an experienced detailer. For new people learning how to be a good detailer there is a lot to learn.

3. After paint correction, polishing/swirl removal, wax/paint seal you can begin dressing the tires and trim pieces as per vehicle. If I am going to apply a coat of wax over the entire car before wipe down, sometimes I will apply the exterior dressings first then wax. Any dressing you got on the painted surface will come off in the wipe down instead of waxing first, wiping down, then applying dressings which could get on the surfaces.

4. Outside windows cleaned, dealership plate frames.

5. Inspection by me of the entire detail with the detailer.

6. Inspection by General Sales Manager/Sales Manager at the time.

7. Placed on the lot accordingly.
_________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________

From Steve Okun :

The first step is thoroughly washing the vehicle. Remove any tar, bugs, bird droppings, etc. get everything clean and dry.

Once done, you need to inspect the finish and determine what needs to be done. A basic tenet of detailing any vehicle is to use the least aggressive method to achieve your goal.

A good place to start is to clean the surface fallout with a clay bar and some spray lubricant such as a detailing spray. It allows the clay to work easier and prolongs the life of the clay. Clay only cleans stuff laying on top of the paint surface. It does not go into the finish to fix blemishes; only above-the-surface fallout covering the paint finish. Clay also works on glass, chrome, plastic, and hard rubber.

As a basic procedure that becomes almost second nature, pause every so often and inspect your performance. Evaluate the surface and see if what you're doing is working to deliver your desired result. If not, consider your options and scrutinize your choice of products. If you are buffing, evaluate which buffing pad and if you're disappointed with the results... change to a different pad. Not all pads are alike. As well, foam pads widely differ and are job-matched for specific tasks such as cutting, cleaning, polishing and finishing.

If the finish requires high-speed buffing, determine where you need to buff, because sometimes only the horizontal surfaces require buffing with a cleaner. If you don't need to buff, don't. Buffing with a high-speed buffer is a very aggressive step that requires skill and knowledge about speed, product compatibility, and performance.

If you do need to buff, use the least abrasive product needed to smooth the finish and bring out the desired shine. In most cases, you won't need compound... or even a cleaner. If you do, fine. If not, use a polish to bring up the shine. The shine actually comes from smoothing the finish.

Maybe you don't need to use a high-speed buffer. If so, consider either a D-A (dual-action) buffer or an orbital. They are much easier to use and even a novice can use one without risking damage... as long as you use the proper chemical product. Nothing very abrasive. Instead, a mild polish will probably do.

Once the desired shine is achieved, consider which protection product you'd like to use. As for hand-application or machine, consider this: machine application offers a more uniform application on large surfaces. All the other areas too tight and confined for a 5-to-6" D-A pad require hand-application of products. Buffers are quicker and easier... and actually offer a more uniform result because pressure and agitation is uniformly delivered while hand-application is not as consistent... simply because human beings are not machines and we press harder at our touch-points and lack the consistency of a machine.]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sun, 07 Jun 2015 22:01:21 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44805#msg-44805 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44805#msg-44805 Avoid getting liquids into electric window switches and other controls .
Some pros steam-clean the vinyl .
I've had good luck cleaning vinyl with a towel and Windex Multi-Task Orange . Glass Plus doesn't seem to clean vinyl as well . Griot's Garage Interior Cleaner is mild but doesn't clean as aggressively as the other two .
Brush the cleaning product to make sure it gets down into the textured vinyl surface . Let it dwell and wipe with a clean dry towel . Some products may require rinsing .
Once the vinyl is clean and dry, apply dressing . I've had good luck with Zaino Leather In A Bottle and their Z-16 [www.zainostore.com]. I like Adams Polishes VRT and also . I like to stick with a water-based dressing just in case the fumes from a solvent might be harmful . Water-based dressings usually have a milky look to them while solvent-based products look clear .
Let the dressing dry with the windows down to avoid residues settling on the glass as the dressing dries and gasses .
To dress nooks and crannies, use professional swabs or cotton swabs from the drugstore .

PRO TIP : You may save time by dressing the interior and exterior in one big step, using one product to do it all . Some dressings are okay on leather as well .]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sun, 07 Jun 2015 21:28:46 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44804#msg-44804 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44804#msg-44804 Larry A Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sun, 07 Jun 2015 01:46:53 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44803#msg-44803 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44803#msg-44803 paulp Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sat, 30 May 2015 04:56:16 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44798#msg-44798 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44798#msg-44798 paulp Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sat, 30 May 2015 04:35:22 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44797#msg-44797 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44797#msg-44797 I had hoped that this " tutorials " thread experiment would spur interest in the forum . If it has, the software glitch that is erroneously holding the posts for a non-existant moderator has silenced everybody . Let's hope Paul can get to the bottom of it ...]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sat, 30 May 2015 03:14:26 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44788#msg-44788 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44788#msg-44788
Seems nobody posts anymore

Bud]]> buda Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Thu, 28 May 2015 04:18:35 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44782#msg-44782 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44782#msg-44782 I wrote to you after the heart attack scare . I'm still around but my posts were not being put up here . Are you still emailing ? Hope all's well .
Doug]]> Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Thu, 28 May 2015 03:16:22 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44781#msg-44781 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44781#msg-44781 Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Mon, 25 May 2015 02:29:45 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44774#msg-44774 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44774#msg-44774
Did you know I had a heart attack on Sept 4, 2013 and was down and out, but CPR and a zapping brought me back.

All is good now. Exercising, eating healthy and taking my medicines.

How about you?

Bud Abraham]]> buda Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sat, 14 Feb 2015 18:21:20 +0000 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44768#msg-44768 https://web-cars.com/phorum//read.php?1,44710,44768#msg-44768 Doug Delmont Auto Detailing: Secrets of the Experts Sun, 19 Oct 2014 20:43:12 +0000