IntrstlarOvrdrv
New member
I am so lost right now, I am ovewhelmed by everyhting I have read. So what are the very basics? What products are must haves, and what techniques are best?
What are the very basics of detaliling a car?
- Thread starter IntrstlarOvrdrv
- Start date
breakneckvtec
New member
This will be vague but search around and gather info, lots of it here. The best tip I can give, THINK before you do something. If your not sure, ASK. Common sense and detailing go hand in hand. If you think something might scratch the paint, chances are...it will.
IntrstlarOvrdrv said:
Firstly :welcome
I would say don't expect to learn everything about detailing overnight. Try to learn about each stage seperately. Use the search button frequently, as many times what you need to know has already been posted. Then if stuck shout helpppppppp!
I still read threads I've read several times to make sure I get as much info as I can about a product/method.
A good basic place to start is to download the autopia e-book. This lays out each step in clear detail and reccomends some very good products.
I don't think anybody here will say 'you MUST use ??????? product' to do a certain job. It is up to each individual which way to go. Search about each product and find out if it's easy to use or a PITA. Find out what people say about the 'finished' effect of a certain product and if you want the same effect then use the same products.
There is lots of info here, it is up to each person how they use it. Just take your time and enjoy yourself
LouisanaJeeper
New member
BASICS
Car Wash Soap
a bucket
good sheepskin or other type wash mit
cleaner wax
armorall or vinyl protectant
an all purpose cleaner (like simple green)
1-2 good 100% cotton towel.
I would say this is the absolute basics, and it is what 90% of car owners get away with.
Car Wash Soap
a bucket
good sheepskin or other type wash mit
cleaner wax
armorall or vinyl protectant
an all purpose cleaner (like simple green)
1-2 good 100% cotton towel.
I would say this is the absolute basics, and it is what 90% of car owners get away with.
imported_jaobrien6
New member
I recently got into detailing more seriously, and I'll give you my approach so far:
1. Learn to wash properly. This includes getting a decent car wash soap (such as Meg's Gold Class which you can probably get locally very easily), using good quality wash mitt (i went with sheepskin, but others here use MF or chenille), and use the 2 bucket method.
2. Start simple. Your paint may be seriously neglected and may need claying and serious polishing with a machine, but if you try and tackle a 7 step process right off the bat, you will get frustrated and won't get the results you expect.
3. Pick a last step product for your final finish. There are many, many good choices you can go with. I would decide whether you want to go carnuba or synthetic and just pick one to try out. take it home a practice your technique. Make sure you're using good quality towels for buffing.
4. Assuming your paint needs it, pick a mild polish that you want to start using either by hand or by PC (depending on the amount of $ you want to spend). Begin practicing that. You won't get all the swirls out right away, or on your first try.
5. Continue adding steps and practicing until you've reached the level that you see in many of the pictures here. You will not get these results on an older car on your first try; it takes practice and technique.
I have two cars i've been practicing on: a brand new 2004 (well, 5 months old now) that still has no swirl marks because I've been taking car of it properly from the start, and a 6 year old car that was NOT cared for properly. That car is still far from where i want it to be, but it's getting better with each new step i add to the process.
My $.02
John
1. Learn to wash properly. This includes getting a decent car wash soap (such as Meg's Gold Class which you can probably get locally very easily), using good quality wash mitt (i went with sheepskin, but others here use MF or chenille), and use the 2 bucket method.
2. Start simple. Your paint may be seriously neglected and may need claying and serious polishing with a machine, but if you try and tackle a 7 step process right off the bat, you will get frustrated and won't get the results you expect.
3. Pick a last step product for your final finish. There are many, many good choices you can go with. I would decide whether you want to go carnuba or synthetic and just pick one to try out. take it home a practice your technique. Make sure you're using good quality towels for buffing.
4. Assuming your paint needs it, pick a mild polish that you want to start using either by hand or by PC (depending on the amount of $ you want to spend). Begin practicing that. You won't get all the swirls out right away, or on your first try.
5. Continue adding steps and practicing until you've reached the level that you see in many of the pictures here. You will not get these results on an older car on your first try; it takes practice and technique.
I have two cars i've been practicing on: a brand new 2004 (well, 5 months old now) that still has no swirl marks because I've been taking car of it properly from the start, and a 6 year old car that was NOT cared for properly. That car is still far from where i want it to be, but it's getting better with each new step i add to the process.
My $.02
John
Quickstrike
New member
Here is a quote from the great Scottwax.. This is not my work, so please, give credit where it is deserved:
imported_BretFraz
New member
If you click on the "Learn!" pic icon at the top of the page you will find numerous articles on various subjects, including a Detailing 101 article that will help you a lot.
There are more articles here: http://www.autopia-carcare.com/how-to.html
We also have a Hall Of Fame: http://www.autopia.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=76
Think of this forum as the Library Of Congress for car detailing. Every question you could possibly ask has likely been answered in some form or another. Don't expect people to teach you how to detail - the info is right here for you to teach yourself. If you have a specific question, feel free to ask but also consider using the search function for answers.
:welcome to Autopia
There are more articles here: http://www.autopia-carcare.com/how-to.html
We also have a Hall Of Fame: http://www.autopia.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=76
Think of this forum as the Library Of Congress for car detailing. Every question you could possibly ask has likely been answered in some form or another. Don't expect people to teach you how to detail - the info is right here for you to teach yourself. If you have a specific question, feel free to ask but also consider using the search function for answers.
:welcome to Autopia
imported_ajbarnes
New member
jaobrien6 said:
That's about right.:xyxthumbs
Use the search function here and gather as much information you can about proper detailing. It is definitely going to take time to perfect proper auto care. My advice would be not to get frustrated with the tons of different techniques, products, tricks, etc. that are here and elsewhere, and just make sure you learn auto care protection first and then experiment with the many techniques, products, etc. to get the perfect finish for the exterior and/or interior.
Good Luck!:xyxthumbs
NozeBleedSpeed
Right Wing Conservative
IntrstlarOvrdrv said:
The very "basics" of detailing is simply thorough cleaning. Its not highly technical but can be a lot of work. It includes a detailed cleaning that most people dont think about. Claying,washing and cleaning the exterior. Cleaning and removing buildup from around trim pieces, windows ,plates,etc. Cleaning between panels and inside of door,tailgate and trunk jambs. Cleaning the engine bay and underside of the hood,wheels,wheel wells,chrome,etc.
Cleaning the interior vinyl,carpets,upholstery,leather,headliners,seatbelts,between interior pieces, buildup around windshields,seat mounts,inside door pockets and door panels,consoles,behind door handles,door gaskets and latches,etc. Sometimes it requires removal of knobs or other pieces. Man,thats a lot of cleaning.
You will need to try different products to see which you like to use.Reading what other guys here recommend will be a big help. Your best friends are lots and lots of different brushes,MF and an assortment of cleaners for different jobs.
Above the basics is appearance and protection. That includes polishing,waxing,dressing and so on. It is part of detailing but the "basics" is still thorough cleaning and the part where most guys take a short cut so they can smear that shiny wax on and call it a day.
The most basic fundemental in detailing (for me) is to take your time. Whether you are cleaning, claying, polishing, waxing, or sealing, don't rush your work. \
Work on one panel at a time. Focus on only that panel. Work all angles of that panel, including those that you can't see if you are standing up or kneeling (bottom side of mirrors, bottom of quarter panels, bottom of doors, door jambs, inner lip of fender, fender wells, bumper bottoms, etc).
Only when you have completely worked the panel, should you move on to the next panel. If, after working over a panel, you see something that you missed, do the entire panel over again.
Speaking from personal experience, the biggest disappointments I've had with my work occurred when I was too anxious to see the finished product, and I shortcutted in order to get to the finished product more quickly.
Take your time, work methodically, and deliberately. The end of the process will come naturally, and if you apply the information that you learn on this board, your results will be simply amazing.
Work on one panel at a time. Focus on only that panel. Work all angles of that panel, including those that you can't see if you are standing up or kneeling (bottom side of mirrors, bottom of quarter panels, bottom of doors, door jambs, inner lip of fender, fender wells, bumper bottoms, etc).
Only when you have completely worked the panel, should you move on to the next panel. If, after working over a panel, you see something that you missed, do the entire panel over again.
Speaking from personal experience, the biggest disappointments I've had with my work occurred when I was too anxious to see the finished product, and I shortcutted in order to get to the finished product more quickly.
Take your time, work methodically, and deliberately. The end of the process will come naturally, and if you apply the information that you learn on this board, your results will be simply amazing.
togwt
The Old Grey Whistle Test
:xyxthumbs
Welcome to Autopia
As you will see it’s a ‘very user friendly’ place, the people on this forum are very knowledgeable, and one thing that seems to stand out here compared to other special interest forums is a spirit of "open mindedness�.
I’ve put this together to help you ‘find your way around’, hope this helps.
After reading the House Rules (upper left of the home page) that will tell you a bit about our operating procedures. Suggest you start at David’s guide (Learn icon – Car Care Topics) and/or (Forum – University) you could also research FAQ (go to Interact-Features-FAQ) or Interact (Search) and then ask your questions on (Forums - University) there are also tips on products under Shop (How-To) plus be sure to check on the discounts available to forum members. And there’s the Reviews section, where we've posted evaluations of products. The Autopia “Guide to detailing eBook� covers most facets of detailing; every car-detailing enthusiast should own this book.
If the Autopia forum solves just one of your detailing problems it’s worth the price of admission
The ultimate shine: 90% Preparation, 4% Product and the balance, in the ‘guy’ of the beholder.
BTW when you've read all this and the answers to your first post there'll be a test! LOL
Experience unshared; is knowledge wasted…/
justadumbarchitect *so I question everything*
Welcome to Autopia
As you will see it’s a ‘very user friendly’ place, the people on this forum are very knowledgeable, and one thing that seems to stand out here compared to other special interest forums is a spirit of "open mindedness�.
I’ve put this together to help you ‘find your way around’, hope this helps.
After reading the House Rules (upper left of the home page) that will tell you a bit about our operating procedures. Suggest you start at David’s guide (Learn icon – Car Care Topics) and/or (Forum – University) you could also research FAQ (go to Interact-Features-FAQ) or Interact (Search) and then ask your questions on (Forums - University) there are also tips on products under Shop (How-To) plus be sure to check on the discounts available to forum members. And there’s the Reviews section, where we've posted evaluations of products. The Autopia “Guide to detailing eBook� covers most facets of detailing; every car-detailing enthusiast should own this book.
If the Autopia forum solves just one of your detailing problems it’s worth the price of admission
The ultimate shine: 90% Preparation, 4% Product and the balance, in the ‘guy’ of the beholder.
BTW when you've read all this and the answers to your first post there'll be a test! LOL
Experience unshared; is knowledge wasted…/
justadumbarchitect *so I question everything*
imported_mirrorfinishman
New member
IntrstlarOvrdrv said:
The very basics are:
1- WASH CAR
2- WASH TIRES AND WHEELS
3- POLISH AND WAX CAR
4- CLEAN AND POLISH CHROME
5- REMOVE ROAD TAR
6- APPLY EXTERIOR PROTECTANTS
7- CLEAN AND WAX DOOR JAMBS
8- CLEAN & PROTECT UPHOLSTERY
9- CLEAN AND VACUUM CARPETS & TRUNK
10- CLEAN WINDOWS & MIRRORS
The 'must have' products are:
1- CAR WASH SOAP
2- TIRE & WHEEL CLEANER
3- UPHOLSTERY CLEANER & CONDITIONER
4- CARPET CLEANER
5- GLASS CLEANER
6- CLEAN TOWELS
7- CLEANER POLISH
8- CLEANER WAX
9- CARNUBA WAX
10- POLYMER WAX
The best techniques are:
UNDERSTANDING EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HOW TO SAFELY DETAIL AN AUTOMOBILE.
I hope this helps...
imported_Macgirl1
New member
I think the first step is to determine what kind of shape your paint is in. Is your car new or less than a year old or is it older and "dull" looking? What color is your paint? Once you [and we] know these two things it is easier to determine what your basic needs will be. Also, a question you have to ask yourself is what kind of budget are you going to have to work with on your new hobby. You may find that you want to invest in a Porter Cable polisher down the road. I guess what I'm trying to say is you should lay down a game plan and start from there. As mentioned before the "LEARN" link at the top of the page is very useful and is organized into sub-catergories for specific jobs, such as cleaning wheels.
All the above tips are wonderful and I just want to add a few tips. First stock up on tire sponges, foam and terry applicators, WalMart is a good place to get basic tools. I use foam applicators quite often, not only are they the best for applying wax, but also for leather conditioners and vinyl/rubber protectants. Have a good assortment of brushes. You'll need different ones for cleaning your tires, wheels, rocker panels, leather and vinyl, vents, and little crevices here and there. And finally, keep yourself organized! Have a dedicated area for all your detailing and cleaning supplies with bins and storage for everything.
If you aren't sure about what products will work for you, make a point to contact the manufacturers and see if you can obtain samples of products you think you want to try. It is worth a try.
Good luck and enjoy browsing this site. Don't let it overwhelm you, just decide how far you want to take it and enjoy. You don't have to have a complicated routine and every product under the sun to have a nice clean car.
All the above tips are wonderful and I just want to add a few tips. First stock up on tire sponges, foam and terry applicators, WalMart is a good place to get basic tools. I use foam applicators quite often, not only are they the best for applying wax, but also for leather conditioners and vinyl/rubber protectants. Have a good assortment of brushes. You'll need different ones for cleaning your tires, wheels, rocker panels, leather and vinyl, vents, and little crevices here and there. And finally, keep yourself organized! Have a dedicated area for all your detailing and cleaning supplies with bins and storage for everything.
If you aren't sure about what products will work for you, make a point to contact the manufacturers and see if you can obtain samples of products you think you want to try. It is worth a try.
Good luck and enjoy browsing this site. Don't let it overwhelm you, just decide how far you want to take it and enjoy. You don't have to have a complicated routine and every product under the sun to have a nice clean car.
JHowell1976
New member
IMO the first step is to figure out what it is you expect to see as the end result of your labor. And then ask yourself if you are willing to make the investment of money and time. Being willing to make the time to do this is far more important than anything. You can go out and buy some Pinnacle Souveran but if you are unwilling to put forth the effort to maximize it, your final result will look no different then had you used a 3$ bottle of Turtle Wax. You need a willingness to put out until you feel the job has been done right. Without that everything else is irrelevant.
imported_mirrorfinishman
New member
JHowell1976 said:
VERY GOOD ADVICE!!!