New car decisions
- Thread starter kthxbye
- Start date
I don't live in San Fran, however if your looking to have some swirls removed from your car/truck or have some small scratches fixed; I suggest that you stick around this forum, do searches on things that are of interest to you (such as swirl removal, washing correctly, proper wax application, tools, you name it) you'll find it here and then invest the money you would spend on getting someone to do the job for you, and put it into getting some first rate products and doing it yourself.
The end result will be much better and you'll feel like your on top of the world after it's done!
If your still in need of a pro detail shop, I'd ask my local auto dealership, where they send needed business to. They will give you a good starting point in finding the correct shop for you.
Hope this helps
The end result will be much better and you'll feel like your on top of the world after it's done!
If your still in need of a pro detail shop, I'd ask my local auto dealership, where they send needed business to. They will give you a good starting point in finding the correct shop for you.
Hope this helps
imported_Intermezzo
New member
IMH(humble)O, the best detailer for your car is yourself. You would give it more care and attention than anyone else would. I personally don't trust anyone else doing a professional job on my car (with the exception of a fellow Autopia member, of course!).
I agree with Jazzy. The feeling you get when you see your car shine after a hard day's work is very satisfying. If you feel you don't know enough, just spend some time going through the old posts on this forum. The amount one can learn from this forum is unbelievable.
I agree with Jazzy. The feeling you get when you see your car shine after a hard day's work is very satisfying. If you feel you don't know enough, just spend some time going through the old posts on this forum. The amount one can learn from this forum is unbelievable.
Hi,
I was in the same boat as you in June. I called about a half-dozen places in the phone book (in SF) and really didn't like a lot of what they had to say, especially since I had been reading this board for a little while and knew what to ask. (Do a search on my username to see my posts about it.)
The only place I would consider taking my car is California Detailing (http://www.drivewithpride.com/). The guy sounds really knowledgable and authoritative (and perhaps a bit salesy, but he didn't try to pressure me or anything. He seemed very responsible, unlike the other people I called who sounded like kids just working a summer job. As I recall, California Detailing puts on 3 coats of aerospace sealant to protect your paint, and it costs $300. (I wonder if the sealant is Klasse. ;-) My neighbor takes his '91 Mercedes there once a year and his car looks practically brand new. The shine is pretty amazing.
Me, well, I'm working on doing this myself. I just had an electrician over yesterday to install 3 sets of flourescent lights in my garage so that I can work on my car.
Good luck!
-- Ed
I was in the same boat as you in June. I called about a half-dozen places in the phone book (in SF) and really didn't like a lot of what they had to say, especially since I had been reading this board for a little while and knew what to ask. (Do a search on my username to see my posts about it.)
The only place I would consider taking my car is California Detailing (http://www.drivewithpride.com/). The guy sounds really knowledgable and authoritative (and perhaps a bit salesy
, but he didn't try to pressure me or anything. He seemed very responsible, unlike the other people I called who sounded like kids just working a summer job. As I recall, California Detailing puts on 3 coats of aerospace sealant to protect your paint, and it costs $300. (I wonder if the sealant is Klasse. ;-) My neighbor takes his '91 Mercedes there once a year and his car looks practically brand new. The shine is pretty amazing.Me, well, I'm working on doing this myself. I just had an electrician over yesterday to install 3 sets of flourescent lights in my garage so that I can work on my car.
Good luck!
-- Ed
cesar_00,
I would honestly try out one of us if you want to have it done right
. Only becuase giving money to a "stranger" is riskier Usually the good detailers are super-pricy and some of the horror stories kill me. I guess the bottom line is get a referral (i gues that what this post is all about) and see a detailed dark car that they've done and check it out thoroughly especially after it's been washed a few times.
Or you could consider doing it yourself, (guys, its easy to see why someone would not want to do it yourself).
Hope this helps, hope you don't get overwhelmed
I would honestly try out one of us if you want to have it done right
. Only becuase giving money to a "stranger" is riskier Usually the good detailers are super-pricy and some of the horror stories kill me. I guess the bottom line is get a referral (i gues that what this post is all about) and see a detailed dark car that they've done and check it out thoroughly especially after it's been washed a few times.Or you could consider doing it yourself, (guys, its easy to see why someone would not want to do it yourself).
Hope this helps, hope you don't get overwhelmed
imported_Intermezzo
New member
Hehe, I guess you're right Steve. Not everyone can get the affliction the way we do! I got semi-hooked when I starting reading stuff on this forum. After I applied my first coat of AIO on my wife's car, I pretty much had a full blown case of what my wife calls the "detailing affliction" and the "shine worship".
BTW, "Beau", from what I read of his posts and other people's comments about him, was pretty respected and knowledgeable.
BTW, "Beau", from what I read of his posts and other people's comments about him, was pretty respected and knowledgeable.
RED JEWELL SS
New member
I am a new SS owner as of three weeks....one tank of Ethyl so far with this freekin weather....Iam in the midwest.
I have been reading a little in the forum and it seems pretty straight forward,I like that !
First off,I want to say Iam certainly not affiliated with any company or anything,Iam just a car nut as I have been for about 47 years...I really havent ordered any "Designer " car products before ,so I would certainly like sum ideas...:smile:
Ya know ,I am picky as hell with all four of my vehicles,and like them to look like show cars and trucks,I thought I was an expert at detailing,but after cruising forums,I have learned alot, ya know like two buckets during a wash job,bottom of vehicle kept seperate from the top...geez,I never was that clever.
Now, I have fresh brand new spankin paint and want to get it waxed or sealed,temperatures are cold,er have been...a little better for a week er two now so they say.
Iam concerned about temp big time because Iam aware of products setting on the paint and wont film up right for removal.
Iam going to ask the magic question...er questions...you all know um..
Wax vs Sealant...
I hear talk of Zaino,Wolfgang,Black Diamond,Griots....on and on....
I think the bottom line really is that they are all good stuff...its a matter of technique and surface preparation....labor time vs how long does it last ?
Another question I have is about hand polishers,I have always been scared shitless of them ,thinking I might leave swirls....:scared:
I havent even looked at what products you guys are affiliated with or anything,I just landed on the site a little while ago....I want to proceed carefully and make this new SS shine like a diamond.
Thanks in advance for suggestions !
I have been reading a little in the forum and it seems pretty straight forward,I like that !
First off,I want to say Iam certainly not affiliated with any company or anything,Iam just a car nut as I have been for about 47 years...I really havent ordered any "Designer " car products before ,so I would certainly like sum ideas...:smile:
Ya know ,I am picky as hell with all four of my vehicles,and like them to look like show cars and trucks,I thought I was an expert at detailing,but after cruising forums,I have learned alot, ya know like two buckets during a wash job,bottom of vehicle kept seperate from the top...geez,I never was that clever.
Now, I have fresh brand new spankin paint and want to get it waxed or sealed,temperatures are cold,er have been...a little better for a week er two now so they say.
Iam concerned about temp big time because Iam aware of products setting on the paint and wont film up right for removal.
Iam going to ask the magic question...er questions...you all know um..
Wax vs Sealant...
I hear talk of Zaino,Wolfgang,Black Diamond,Griots....on and on....
I think the bottom line really is that they are all good stuff...its a matter of technique and surface preparation....labor time vs how long does it last ?
Another question I have is about hand polishers,I have always been scared shitless of them ,thinking I might leave swirls....:scared:
I havent even looked at what products you guys are affiliated with or anything,I just landed on the site a little while ago....I want to proceed carefully and make this new SS shine like a diamond.
Thanks in advance for suggestions !
imported_BretFraz
New member
Welcome to TID. Definitely spend some time reading posts here. Learn as much as you can about products, tools, techniques, and processes. You'll definitely be able to elevate your detailing game a couple of notches after absorbing some of the info here.
As for wax vs sealant, everyone has their favorites. In the big picture, it doesn't matter a whole lot as prep makes a bigger difference to the paint than what brand of wax or sealant. Sure, some products work better than others, but prep is at least 80% of the battle.
I used to live in Chicago and my #1 goal was to keep the car clean during the winter. When we got the occassional warm-up, I'd apply a spray wax to add some protection. That's about it. Unless your car is going to be a garage queen all winter, do the best you can to keep it clean and get some protection on the paint. When the snow melts, you can dive into a full on detail.
Post a pic or two of your new car when you get a chance. Feel free to hit us with questions, there is lots of experience here.
As for wax vs sealant, everyone has their favorites. In the big picture, it doesn't matter a whole lot as prep makes a bigger difference to the paint than what brand of wax or sealant. Sure, some products work better than others, but prep is at least 80% of the battle.
I used to live in Chicago and my #1 goal was to keep the car clean during the winter. When we got the occassional warm-up, I'd apply a spray wax to add some protection. That's about it. Unless your car is going to be a garage queen all winter, do the best you can to keep it clean and get some protection on the paint. When the snow melts, you can dive into a full on detail.
Post a pic or two of your new car when you get a chance. Feel free to hit us with questions, there is lots of experience here.
RED JEWELL SS
New member
Thanks very much !
Yes ,I love this car,and she is being treated like a Harley,and always will,she will not come out in this snow and salt crap....she may not see rain.
I have other vehicles,so she will be a garage queen....I pity the bird that ever shits on it ! :rofl:
Yes ,I love this car,and she is being treated like a Harley,and always will,she will not come out in this snow and salt crap....she may not see rain.
I have other vehicles,so she will be a garage queen....I pity the bird that ever shits on it ! :rofl:
Jeff U
Member
Congrats on the SS !
However, I am not exactly sure what an SS is ? Am I the only one ?
I was always wary of machine polishers. (I think that is what you mean by "hand polishers")
About a year ago I bought a Flex 3401 from Proper Auto Care and now wonder why I ever was afraid. Without question, it is the best purchase I have ever made in keeping cars looking great.
There is plenty of information here on the proper use of a machine and they are much more idiot proof than I ever thought.
However, I am not exactly sure what an SS is ? Am I the only one ?
I was always wary of machine polishers. (I think that is what you mean by "hand polishers")
About a year ago I bought a Flex 3401 from Proper Auto Care and now wonder why I ever was afraid. Without question, it is the best purchase I have ever made in keeping cars looking great.
There is plenty of information here on the proper use of a machine and they are much more idiot proof than I ever thought.
RED JEWELL SS
New member
Duh ! Sorry Jeff',
I thought of that when I drafted the thread, Camaro SS...forgive me man !
Well,you got me curious about the machine polishers,I was thinking that they resemble hand motions so to speak and I see most have adjustable rpm settings....it sure would make life easier,if it can be used without incident.
I watched a video earlier today on using the porter cable with a polish,and the dude was running it all over with no certain pattern really ,side to side ,up and down,until the nickel size of liquid was pretty much dissipated....er ,cant think of a better word...made me nervous watching it !
Welcome to TID and we would love to see some pics of your SS. You'll find loads of info great info here. Look through the how to section and if you still don't find what you're looking for then post a question. A lot of great people here who will gladly help you achieve that ultimate shine. :clap:
RED JEWELL SS
New member
I will add a question along with my origional,Iam going to clay bar the top and hood to see what type if any contaminants the car picked up on the train ride,this will tell the exposure it had.
If the clear coat is in good shape,need I hand polish the car before applying the paint sealant ?
If the clear coat is in good shape,need I hand polish the car before applying the paint sealant ?
Detailing Technology
New member
I was agoing ask, "What is an SS"...
Do you know if you live near any TID members? Maybe one of them would introduce you to some chemicals and processes?
Do you know if you live near any TID members? Maybe one of them would introduce you to some chemicals and processes?
imported_RootsRadical
New member
Where in the Midwest are you located? Maybe a forum member local to you can help you get started...
imported_Stokdgs
New member
Welcome to the TID (Truth in Detailing) Forum, Red Jewell SS !!!
You found an awesome place to get great information without any pressure, angst, drama, etc...
Just a bunch of well intentioned individuals, who like me, come here first about every day, to check in and see if we can learn something, or help someone else like you, with our experience in this wonderful world of detailing.
Congratulations on the awesome car !! I bet she is beautiful !!
I bought a new 1969 Camaro RS/SS Pace Car when I got back from overseas, and it was just an awesome vehicle that your new rocket shares some of its best attributes and takes them all to a way higher level !
Sounds like you may have a few vehicles to take care of, so this will be a great place to get information on just how to do what you feel will fit your needs.
Looking at the Porter Cable machine is a great place to start, they have an updated one now, and Meguiars recently came out with their own updated version of theirs.
And as you saw in the Video, it mimics hand movements and rotates as well to help it "cut and polish" the paint easier and faster. I dont know if anyone can actually hurt the paint or even swirl the paint using a Random-Orbital polisher such as the P/Cable or Meguiars, etc., so you will be much safer with these than with a Rotary buffer, but they also work great too.
So take your time, read, and ask questions, dont worry about asking questions, we are all glad to help and offer our own, repeat, our own, opinions and experiences, so that you will have a great wealth of knowledge to learn from and then formulate the plan and techniques for your own vehicles.
I certainly feel anytime you use a claybar, you will always be better off in getting the paintwork ready for the next step. Just run a clean dry hand across the paintwork, lightly, and your fingertips will pick up any little things that are stuck to the paint quickly. This is what you want to remove and the claybar will do that almost everytime perfectly.
Your paintwork will then be closer to being ready for your choice of polish, wax, or sealant, etc..
Having access to great lighting really helps too, so if you havent already, see what you can find out about this subject too.
We could all go on and on and will be around, someone always is, to help out.
You must also be aware that the people that run this site and company from the top, down, are some of the nicest, greatest, sincere, and knowledgeable bunch of guys you would ever be so happy to know !!! Yes, they are that good, but they never let it get to their heads, if you know what I mean.
Enjoy your stay, we look forward to making a new detailing acquaintence with you !
Dan F
Dan's Auto Detailing
Bellevue, WA.
You found an awesome place to get great information without any pressure, angst, drama, etc...
Just a bunch of well intentioned individuals, who like me, come here first about every day, to check in and see if we can learn something, or help someone else like you, with our experience in this wonderful world of detailing.
Congratulations on the awesome car !! I bet she is beautiful !!
I bought a new 1969 Camaro RS/SS Pace Car when I got back from overseas, and it was just an awesome vehicle that your new rocket shares some of its best attributes and takes them all to a way higher level !
Sounds like you may have a few vehicles to take care of, so this will be a great place to get information on just how to do what you feel will fit your needs.
Looking at the Porter Cable machine is a great place to start, they have an updated one now, and Meguiars recently came out with their own updated version of theirs.
And as you saw in the Video, it mimics hand movements and rotates as well to help it "cut and polish" the paint easier and faster. I dont know if anyone can actually hurt the paint or even swirl the paint using a Random-Orbital polisher such as the P/Cable or Meguiars, etc., so you will be much safer with these than with a Rotary buffer, but they also work great too.
So take your time, read, and ask questions, dont worry about asking questions, we are all glad to help and offer our own, repeat, our own, opinions and experiences, so that you will have a great wealth of knowledge to learn from and then formulate the plan and techniques for your own vehicles.
I certainly feel anytime you use a claybar, you will always be better off in getting the paintwork ready for the next step. Just run a clean dry hand across the paintwork, lightly, and your fingertips will pick up any little things that are stuck to the paint quickly. This is what you want to remove and the claybar will do that almost everytime perfectly.
Your paintwork will then be closer to being ready for your choice of polish, wax, or sealant, etc..
Having access to great lighting really helps too, so if you havent already, see what you can find out about this subject too.
We could all go on and on and will be around, someone always is, to help out.
You must also be aware that the people that run this site and company from the top, down, are some of the nicest, greatest, sincere, and knowledgeable bunch of guys you would ever be so happy to know !!! Yes, they are that good, but they never let it get to their heads, if you know what I mean.
Enjoy your stay, we look forward to making a new detailing acquaintence with you !
Dan F
Dan's Auto Detailing
Bellevue, WA.
bmw5541
New member
Welcome RED JEWELL SS.
If the clear coat is in good shape, you might want to apply a good AIO like Klasse or Optimum Poly-Seal. Or maybe even a good Cleaner Wax.
As for the wax vs. sealant question, that is personal opinion. Everyone has their thoughts on both. IMO, if you are in the Mid-West, you probably get some harsh winters, so I would use a sealant for durability (Blackfire Wet Diamond). If you want a wax try Colliite 915 or 845IW. These waxes will give you unbelievable durability and still look great.
I hope this helps.
Good luck to you and congrats on the new ride.
ancing Dot:RED JEWELL SS
New member
Thanks Dan !
I have read sum here about using the electric polishers,in fact there was one thread where the gentleman mentioned when he got in bright light that he found swirl marks and about lost his teeth...:biggrin: ,not really , he was then advised to press harder or use a more aggressive pad.Iam a little in fact ,very concerned about that.I think I will save that measure in case the car gets hurt....and I will try at all cost to prevent that.
I am familiar with the clay bars,in fact I just did one of my cars before winter kicked in,I used a Meguars spray detail with it, I think I saw it here,but I saw pics of sum one using it under hose water...is that common practice as well ?
Iam going to try like hell not to injure the paint on this new car by making a stupid choice...so Iam asking questions and proceeding at a turtle crawl..besides its cold yet...maybe my ducks will be in a string by warm weather , Thanks !:biggrin:
RED JEWELL SS
New member
Welcome RED JEWELL SS.
If the clear coat is in good shape, you might want to apply a good AIO like Klasse or Optimum Poly-Seal. Or maybe even a good Cleaner Wax.
As for the wax vs. sealant question, that is personal opinion. Everyone has their thoughts on both. IMO, if you are in the Mid-West, you probably get some harsh winters, so I would use a sealant for durability (Blackfire Wet Diamond). If you want a wax try Colliite 915 or 845IW. These waxes will give you unbelievable durability and still look great.
I hope this helps.
Good luck to you and congrats on the new ride.
Hi Barry,
I will definitely out of the shoot use a sealer,yeah ,you are right the midwest has crappy weather,but Iam committed not to put this cars paws in it at all...Iam not sure if it will see rain...this is a pleasure car,and the elements are not pleasure....
