Aircraft Detailing

[togwt]

Before I went to college I used to earn flight time by cleaning the aircraft (Cessna and Apache) at a local flying school, where I eventuallyobtained my flying license,as well as the instrument, night flight and navigation modules. This served me well on entering the RAF officer training facility at Cranwell. Although nothing could prepare you for a solo flight in a Jaguar GR3A fighter jet



Formulate a detailing plan, then utilize proper detailing techniques, combined with quality products is what makes a details outcome, successful.



“God is the details� and it’s often the small things that make the difference between a good detailer and an outstanding one. Once your paint is polished and protected look to the finer details; wheel wells, brake callipers, wheel lug nuts, glass surfaces, tyres and the exhaust tips and the interior: brake pedals, control knobs, instrument cluster, door kick-plates, seatbelts, buckles and retractors.



An airplane has numerous sensitive parts. Pitot tubes and static ports need to be covered or taped off. Remove once finished avoiding a catastrophe; pilots are usually very methodical with pre-flight checks, but...



Be careful when detailing around doors, latches, and Dzus fasteners they are fragile and expensive to replace. Any maintenance that is required by FAA Regulations must be carried out by an A&P Mechanic.



Ensure that you comply with HS&E regulations and any other (local) airport requirements. Check that your insurance cover is both adequate and up to date. You will also need an airport permit, water reclamation an absolute must unless you’re doing a ‘dry wash’. Before you start, contact both the airport manager and the fixed base operator (FBO) on the field.



Pre-Wash



When you are washing the upper portion of the craft, only step on the areas designated for that purpose. For larger planes you will need a 6-8 foot ladder or a small portable scaffold for the top of the rear wings and fuselage. Do not use a high-powered pressure machine to wash a plane. They can easily strip wax and paint from the surface. Keep your nozzles and hoses under control at all times and about 2 feet away from the surface. They can cause you to lose your balance or can easily bang into the panels.



Before you begin washing, spray the leading edge and nose/props with a bug remover. This will soften the insect residue which can then be hosed-off. Degreasers are also a must. You can spray-on a degreaser and just hose-off the residue. The most difficult part of removing grease is gaining access. Most of the accumulation is under the belly. A wheeled creeper would certainly make that job a lot easier.





Recommended tools and products - http://www.jetstreamproducts.com/wetwashsystem.html#hydrosolve



Wash & Rinse:



Aircraft windows are made of Plexiglas which can scratch very easily. I prefer shampooing with soft, clean wash mops or a Wash Glove with extension handle to avoid scratches. The fuselage may be washed with a soft, flow-thru brush that also have extension handles.

Wet Washing will include the landing gear from the top of the gear doors down, belly, top and bottom of wings, engine nacelles, fuselage and all tail surfaces. There will be three things that are never in short supply... bugs, carbon and oil.



Always wet-down and rinse-off aircraft with a front to back motion. Some holes are protected from moisture only in this direction. Avoid spraying water directly into static port tube openings(this should be taped off before you commence washing). When you wash moving parts such as ailerons, elevators, flaps and rudder areas, use your arm as a support.



Drying:



Use 100% cotton terry towels or a commercial dryer to preserve waxes and avoid scratching the windows. Do not use fabric softener on your towels. It is a chemical that remains on the surface and causes streaking. We also recommend water filter if you are noticing a large amount of water spots as you dry.



Paint



The paint most often used is DuPontâ„¢ Imron® AF740â„¢ Clear Coat, a polyurethane enamel, which is a very dense (hard) paint, so I would suggest Menzerna polish / compounds, a rotary polisher and lots of wool pads and a finishing polish and some foam pads. As always do a test ‘spot’ to ensure the correct abrasive/ pad combination before you commence work.



Paint Protection



I highly recommend a liquid acrylic polymer sealant, as these are the most durable, provide the most UV protection, do not require strenuous rubbing, and can be applied by hand or machine.



Klasse cleaner/sealants will polish the surface and lay down protection, Klasse acrylic is a first class sealant product for use on aircraft- . Klasse all in one (AIO) and Klasse Sealant Glaze, the best sealants last about 6 months, with proper care.



Lasting shine doesn`t result from the waxing process. Perfection of the paint creates shine and that is achieved by removing surface imperfections. Pre-clean (polish) the surface if you are applying wax for the first time, you`ll need an orbital polisher (Cyclo) and an abrasive polish that removes light scratches and oxidation.



The Cyclo Orbital Polisher was developed to polish aircraft in the 1950`s and has remained the easiest, most versatile polishing tool ever designed. It is unequalled for polishing paint, fibreglass, metal, and gel coat. It is also a remarkable upholstery and carpet shampoo machine.



Klasse All-In-One contains a chemical (solvent) cleaner that removes imbedded dirt, light oxidation, which occurs when paint loses its natural oils, tree sap, road film and old wax plus it provides a tough acrylic protection. The foundation of the Klasse line this is a true one-step product. It cleans polishes and protects in one easy step. All-in-one is the first component of a two-part system; by adding the SG to the base coat of AIO it enhances protection, durability and the paints appearance.



Detailers Tips:



1. Apply this product using water-dampened applicator, and then spray the applicator with Sonus Spritz.

2. Apply Klasse products very thinly using absolute minimum pressure on the applicator.

3. Everything in a straight line, circular movements only add to swirl marks.

4. Spray the vehicle surface very lightly with Sonus Spritz between each ‘layer’.

5. Use a slightly damp 100% cotton towel to wipe the surface followed by a dry 100% cotton towel to remove Sealant Glaze

6. I cannot emphasise ‘apply products very sparingly’ enough.

7. As a quick detailer mix a 3:1 solution of Sealant Glaze and Sonus Spritz, spray onto a 100% cotton towel and apply lightly to pant film surface.

8. The secret to the application of a polymer product is to apply it thin (super thin) fill a spray bottle and mist a foam pad for application.



Surface Preparation



• Wash with a good quality wash concentrate 1.0oz per 2 gallon

• Using a long handled boars hairbrush with water hose attachment and a citrus based cleaner (P21S Total Auto Wash)

• Rinse thoroughly.

• Remove any imbedded contaminants with detailing clay (Clay Magic™) and a lubrication solution 5:1 (Distilled water/Woolite™)

• Remove any surface imperfections with a suitable machine polish Or a swirl mark remover (3M™`s PI-III Machine Glaze)

• Clean paint film surface with a pre-wax cleaner (P21S™ Gloss Enhancing Paintwork Cleaner)

• Lightly wash paint surface with a diluted car wash concentrate 1.0oz per gallon

• Dry thoroughly and start application process



Klasse All-In-One Application Methodology



• First and most importantly, thoroughly prepare your paint film surface.

• Wash, use detailers clay, polish and apply a pre-wax Cleaner

• Shake product container vigorously to ensure mixing

• Apply to a clean, dry surface away from direct sunlight

• Dampen the applicator with water or use a lubricating spray during application

• Place a small amount of product (about the size of a dime) on to a damp (but not wet) applicator (not the paint surface) apply a thin even film of product to paint surface.

• If you are using a Porter-Cable orbital polisher to apply AIO, use a mild cutting foam (white) pad, using a low speed (3.5 – 4.0) and light pressure, let the polish / cleaners do the work.

• Apply to whole of one side of the aircraft (1-1.5oz of product should be sufficient)

• Apply to vertical surfaces top to bottom and then left to right, on horizontal surfaces bow to stern and then left to right, over-lapping to ensure complete coverage.

• This application technique affects the paints optical properties by optimising light refraction and the reflectivity of the bodylines and contours of the vehicle.

• To test for results, wipe off product with a clean / dry Micro fibre towel. If the surface is still dull continue polishing, ensure that the product is worked in to obtain the best results.

• Its primary catalyst is an aerobic process so for the acrylic to dry low air temperatures and/or humidity may affect the time requirement.

• After sufficient drying time do a quick swipe test with your finger. If no smearing or drag is evident, the product is ready to be removed

• Remove AIO as soon as it starts to ‘haze’ (set-up) this makes residues easier to remove than to allow the product to completely dry, and unlike wax, there is no benefit in doing so.

• Residues should be slightly damp (not a dry powder) when you buff them. If the residues are still wet, you are using too much water on the applicator or too much product.

• Removal: product can be removed with a 100% cotton towel (Swisswax) or a with a Porter-Cable random orbital polisher and a non-cutting type (Grey) foam pad



Sufficient time should be allowed to enable cross-linking, 1-2 hours is recommended before the application of other products.

Klasse High Gloss Sealant Glaze (SG) is a companion product to AIO that builds finish depth and clarity. It contains no cleaners, wax or polishes and can be layered. With each layer the gloss and depth of shine will increase and the tough acrylic protection will also increase.



The longer SG stays on the surface, the easier it is to buff off, if it is found to be difficult in almost every instance it can be traced to using too much product, applying with a dry, not damp, applicator and/or not waiting long enough before buffing. If there is resistance to easy buffing after its dry, simply mist the surface with any quick-detail spray and wipe with a dry Microfiber Cloth.



(SG) Application Methodology:



• Shake product container vigorously to ensure mixing

• Do not dampen the applicator with water or use any lubricating sprays during application.

• Apply to a clean, dry surface, with a temperature of >50 – 90<o F, away from direct sunlight

• Place a small amount of product (about the size of a dime) on to a dry applicator (not the paint surface) and using a light to medium even pressure, apply a thin even film of product to paint surface.

• As an alternative, pour some SG into small misting spray bottle, this will enable you to cover the applicator while using the minimum amount of product and this will ensure a super thin application.

• Apply to one side of the boat (1-1.5oz should be sufficient) taking care not to apply to absorbent surfaces (i.e. unpainted plastics and rubber trim)

• First pass: apply (ultra- thin) roof to floor on vertical surfaces and across on horizontal surfaces

• SG is formulated from hard resins and therefore must be given sufficient time to cross-link, >24 hours, but anytime up to 72 hour period is recommended before other layers / products are applied this provides better durability and a deeper shine

• As air is the primary catalyst for the acrylic to dry, low air temperatures and / or humidity may affect the time requirements.

• Residues should be dry when you buff them. If the residues are still wet, you are using too much product.

• After sufficient drying time do a quick swipe test with your finger. If no smearing or drag is evident, the residue is ready to be removed.

• Removal: product can be removed with a 100% cotton (Swisswax) towel or a with a Porter-Cable random orbital polisher and a non-cutting type (Grey) foam pad

• Sonus Spritz is formulated the same way as Klasse and can be used to ‘even’ out layers or as a quick detailer

• Second pass (ultra- thin) apply in direction of airflow, horizontal surfaces bow to stern, vertical surfaces front to back.

• Third pass (ultra- thin) and any subsequent layer(s): apply in same ‘direction of air flow’ and leave on for 1-2 hours before removing residue

• This application technique affects the paints optical properties by optimising light refraction, and the reflectivity of the bodylines and contours of the boat.

• Finally spray a very thin layer of Sonus Spritz and buff with a 100% cotton cloth

• Sufficient time should be allowed to enable cross-linking, 12 – 72 hours is recommended



Aircraft Interiors



Most single engine aircraft interiors are made of the same fibres and compounds as automobile interiors. The same type of products used to clean and protect those surfaces can also be used for planes. Jets are quite different. Their wool carpet requires a gentle hand shampooing and thorough, rapid drying.



A word of warning;interior c loth fabric is coated with a fire retardant. Once the upholstery is cleaned most of it will be removed.

The areas of most concern for aircraft interiors are ultra violet radiation degradation (fading) damage and odours. Airplanes are exposed to an extreme amount of sun which can cause fabrics to fade, turn brittle and crack. Leather, vinyl and velour upholstery must have protectants containing UV retardants. These products keep leather and vinyl pliable, and the colour of seats and carpet like new. Fabric protectants also guard against stains.



Odours that are a nuisance in autos can be stifling in an airplane. Cockpits and passenger compartments receive very little direct outside airflow, which can compound a light odour. Add summer heat, and you`ve really got a problem. Over-the-counter deodorizers simply do not work. (See DrivePur – “Allergen and germ removal systems�)



Fabric Upholstery should be cleaned by hand. Carpet cleaning can be done by hand, with a dry steamer, or a professional carpet extractor. If you have the carpet professionally cleaned, allow the interior to completely dry before you close the windows. Mildew can form in the foam padding in a few days, and will have to be injected with a mildew eliminator.



Doesn’t waste your time with store purchased stain removers? Remove tough coffee and cola stains with a professional formula designed for this purpose. Don`t forget to apply a fabric protectant. Aircraft interior detailing is a time consuming, intricate procedure if it is done right (See also “Interiors�, “Fabric Upholstery Care� technical article).

ork and can make the surface water repellent, as well as stain resistant!



Aircraft windows



Are made of Plexiglas which can scratch very easily, shampoo with soft, clean wash mops or our unique Wash Glove with extension handle to avoid scratches, the fuselage may be washed with our soft, flow-thru brushes that also have extension handles.



Plexiglas instrument gauge covers should be polished with the same products as the windows. Fold-out tables, galleys, and wood cabinetry must be cleaned. Vintage aircraft`s wood trim may be left natural and treated with antique furniture oils, or sealed with wood floor polyurethane. Aircraft interior detailing is a time consuming, intricate procedure if it is done right.



Clean surfaces using Iz einszett `Plastik-Reiniger` an intensive, non-corrosive, non-acidic two-phase deep cleaner for urethane that removes grime build-up thoroughly and effortlessly, these chemicals restore the original texture, tactile feel and resiliency and optical clarity; use to clean all coloured and clear water-based acrylic and vinyl; this product is biodegradable and formalin-free



To remove minor scratches use a plastic polish that is safe for all types of polycarbonate) type plastics - Novus 1 2 3

Novus 1 - gently cleans all plastics without scratching, leaves a lustrous shine that resists fogging, repels dust, and eliminates static.

Novus 2 - removes fine scratches, haziness, and abrasions from most plastics (exceptional for removing scratches from Plexiglas). Use repeatedly and restore faded and discoloured plastics.

Novus 3 -removes heavy scratches and abrasions from most acrylic surfaces.



Landing gear and tires



Should be cleaned thoroughly during the washing process, use a safe, all-surface auto wheel cleaners. They do a remarkable job of removing dirt, scum and runway oils without harming the paint, metal or rubber.



Cleaning out gear wells can be a messy job. If they are not cleaned at least twice a year, the build-up may become difficult to remove. It is caused from the wheels slinging mud, slush, salt and tar up into the gear wells.



The gear wells can also be contaminated from oil leaking out of the engine as well as from carbon and hydraulic leaks from the gears or gear doors and it will transfer right to the belly, flaps, wings, and engine parts. Use a degreaser OPT diluted Optimum Power Cleanâ„¢ up to 3:1 to safely clean, vinyl, paint, and plastics as an all-purpose degreaser, bug and scum remove



Don`t forget to wear protective clothing and goggles. You will be working above your head with goo dripping in your face. You must be very careful not to allow the hydraulic fluid to get on your skin or in your eyes. It can contain acid which will cause painful burns.



Aircraft engines



Should be kept clean, but not directly sprayed with chemicals, water or steam. Spray your degreaser or engine cleaner on a sponge or rag, and wipe off excess oil or dirt with your hand. Vintage show planes are a different story. A good number have parts exposed to the elements and the judges. They require the same diligence, dedication and specialized tools as concours winning automobiles.



Chrome and aluminium must have a mirror finish and each crevice, bolt and hose should look like new. A "perfect" show engine and cowlings need frequent detailing to stay ahead of the elements and Father Time.



Aircraft De-Ice Boot System



Aircraft Boots must be maintained on a regular basis to insure they remain slick and supple. TOTL’s 2-Step, Pbs De-Ice Boot System is formulated just for that purpose.





Classes Available



Aircraft Detailing Course - l Jet Stream Aviation, Dallas 1-800-727-5387

[lostdaytomorrow]

I`ll probably never wash a plane but that was a very good article to read. Thanks for sharing the ins and outs.

[togwt]

I`ll probably never wash a plane but that was a very good article to read. Thanks for sharing the ins and outs.

Thank you, I hope it will provide useful info for anyone planning o do this type of very lucrative detailing...