Ron Ketcham: Recognition of His Contributions to the Autopian Community

L

Lonnie

Active member
Normally this Forum does not recognize individuals for their contributions to the Autopian community and automotive detailing professional and enthusiast such as myself. There are many Autopian "All-stars" that come to mind who could (and should) be recognized for their contributions to the advancement of the detailing profession.



I would like to personally recognize Ron Ketcham (AKA "Grumpy") for his many posts and sharing of his wealth of information gained for his many years of experience in the car-care chemical business. While some of it may seem as "ancient history" relative to the new products that have evolved in recent years, it is still refreshing to me to read about it. Many of us take care of older vehicles and are trying to resolve problems associated with their aging paint surfaces, and his experience and insight is well received and respected by those who read and learn from his posts. Sometimes it seems what appears as a new methodoloy is really a "reinvention of the wheel" and nothing more than application of tried-and-true methods of the past.



I know there are others who frequent this forum who can say more about "Grumpy", and I hope you will take the time to do.



Thank you, Ron Ketcham
 
I also look forward to Ron's post and picking his gray matter for info on the auto industry and paint related topics. He seems to of had a very interesting career covering many aspects of paint care ,and the evolving detailing movement . So I raise my glass of Lynchburg Lemonade and say thanks for sharing with us you experiences and knowledge.
 
Agreed.



When so many people speak from experience about what has and hasn't worked for them, Ron stands out with an educated explanation of why something does or doesn't work. His information can also be a great caution; just because something appears to not be doing damage doesn't mean it is safe. Everyone here is much better off with Ron's expansive knowledge. Even if it isn't coming directly from him there is a good chance that is is being passed along through the advice of others.



Thanks Grumpy!
 
Ron is a true encyclopedia of knowledge when it comes to paint care/car care/etc. and definitely an asset to the community!
 
I agree (good thread).



I have always benefited from Ron's posts/knowledge in general but more recently he has even went out of his way to actually help personally guide me with a restoration project using ETR. Definitely a great asset to the detailing community.
 
Along with his knowledgeable posts, he is funny as can be. He is hilarious after a few drinks.



Come Thursday nights for our weekly chats. Pick pick his brain while getting entertained. :beer_yum:
 
Lonnie said:
Ron Ketcham: Recognition of His Contributions to the Autopian Community
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A-men.



Ron is clearly a pillar of this community and I know many of us can offer thanks for his on-going and succinct support. Thanks, Ron ! :bow
 
Ahhhh schucks!!!

Just enjoy still being a small part of the detailing community.

Retirement is fine, but somethings, after over 40+ years, just stays in the blood.

Thanks everyone for the kind words.

Grumpy
 
LOL!

For a while today I was not very happy!

There is a great, old family owned tire and wheel store, that's where everyone goes for mags, tires, etc.

Went down last week, we figured out the right bolt pattern, tire size, and they special ordered them for me.

Called me this morning to say the tires were mounted and balanced, "come on down" and we'll get em on the Bird.

Drove the 1 hour to the store, the guys were putting them on, bagging up the old tires and wheels for me to take home and "last tire"-American Eagle has screwed up and it had the wrong bolt pattern!!!

They were great, called California, they are air frieghting the right wheel in but won't be there until Friday.

So, old tires on, and I had to cancel a meeting with a good buddy who does suspension work as we were going to figure out if cutting one coil off the front springs would give the stance I want, can't do it until the new wheels and tires are on.

Another wasted day and my old temper and heart didn't like it one bit.

Lucky I didn't die as p-oed as I was.

At least I got to see them on the Bird (1977 with 13,000 actual miles) and noticed I had better paint the rear drums and front calipers since they show through the spokes, got something to do this weekend.

Life is grand, but somedays it just don't pay to roll out of bed.

Now you know why they call me "Grumpy".

Grumpy
 
Ron Ketcham said:
LOL!

For a while today I was not very happy!

There is a great, old family owned tire and wheel store, that's where everyone goes for mags, tires, etc.

Went down last week, we figured out the right bolt pattern, tire size, and they special ordered them for me.

Called me this morning to say the tires were mounted and balanced, "come on down" and we'll get em on the Bird.

Drove the 1 hour to the store, the guys were putting them on, bagging up the old tires and wheels for me to take home and "last tire"-American Eagle has screwed up and it had the wrong bolt pattern!!!

They were great, called California, they are air frieghting the right wheel in but won't be there until Friday.

So, old tires on, and I had to cancel a meeting with a good buddy who does suspension work as we were going to figure out if cutting one coil off the front springs would give the stance I want, can't do it until the new wheels and tires are on.

Another wasted day and my old temper and heart didn't like it one bit.

Lucky I didn't die as p-oed as I was.

At least I got to see them on the Bird (1977 with 13,000 actual miles) and noticed I had better paint the rear drums and front calipers since they show through the spokes, got something to do this weekend.

Life is grand, but somedays it just don't pay to roll out of bed.

Now you know why they call me "Grumpy".

Grumpy
Click to expand...

Congratulations!



I'm sorry to hear about the inconvenience. That really is a bummer, especially since its a bit of a drive. A 1977 with 13,000 miles; Wow!



I've never been a fan of cutting springs, even if its cutting a dead coil.
 
An encyclopaedia of paint care knowledge that he is always willing to share...a true inspiration.



Thank you for your contribution to detailing
 
Clearly a standout among the many knowledgeable and informed members who regularly contribute their time. A true asset to our community. My personal & sincerest thanks Ron.
 
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