Detailing thread

[krupa35]

So i'm curious to what products you guys are using on your cars to keep em shined up?

I'm doing my 02' GT's first detail next week, which will consist of a mother wax wash, mothers fine grade clay with optimun no-rinse wash as the lube, ardex high-def #2 polish with rotary buff, local company pink machine glaze with DA, klasse all-in-one polish by hand, klasse high gloss sealant glaze by hand, and then adams (local company) wax or maybe collinite 945 or something else if i can get a good deal.


Dont ever....ever....buy a black car :)

[fran]

Look into Groffgate products.

[PaxtonShelby]

Call T at Autoality - he knows his stuff and can point you in the right direction. He also is a site sponsor.

[krupa35]

I did a google search for Groffgrate, no results.

I just ordered some stuff off of Autogeek.net. Do we get a discount through Autotality?

[whitesnake]

yeah, black is horrible....i think i am just going to pay someone this spring to detail my car and then keep it hidden in the garage...

[angel50]

Hey whitesnake!!! I have a buddy that is probably the best detailed in the Burgh..his name is ash...I do my own cars but anything black I take to him...let me know I could refer you to him...

[no1sirbutler]

http://www.detailedimage.com

[VaderGT]

what i use to keep the Mustang perfect
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a224/05Xrunner/Detailing/JON_2749_zps4f49dc58.jpg (http://s12.photobucket.com/user/05Xrunner/media/Detailing/JON_2749_zps4f49dc58.jpg.html)
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a224/05Xrunner/Detailing/JON_2750_zpsc1b4cde0.jpg (http://s12.photobucket.com/user/05Xrunner/media/Detailing/JON_2750_zpsc1b4cde0.jpg.html)

[Terminated]

Autoality has a discount for SCS members. Go talk to T he will get you set up!

[fran]

Sorry, that Croffgate, they will be at the 50th mustang. Check their web site

[VaderGT]

if you really want to save money join the Detailers club at autoality. huge discounts.
Can get MUCH better stuff at autoality then croffgate. I wouldnt put them much better then typical over the counter products.

[Zoom50]

This is a great thread to start as the amount of detailing products/opinions is mind blowing. I am wondering if it is worth paying someone to do the initial detail given the cost of some of these products. My Mustang just got painted performance white last fall with 4 layers of clear according to the shop. Here are some of my questions if anyone wants to chime in:

1. They did some last minute clear and some of the overspray is on my black molding. What product is best to remove this and enhance the black? I tested a small strip to see if it would remove and it did using wd-40. Obviously, there is a better product I should use.

2. Should I use a clay bar before applying first coat of wax?

3. What wax/sealer combo do you recommend for a fairly fresh paint job?

Thanks!

[Nightmare99]

yeah, black is horrible....i think i am just going to pay someone this spring to detail my car and then keep it hidden in the garage...
Ya I think I may do this...never detailed any car before and I don't want to mess anything up haha

[VaderGT]

https://www.facebook.com/DynamicDetailingAD?ref=hl

[95V6]

https://www.facebook.com/DynamicDetailingAD?ref=hl

Nice, I know I had messages you a few summers ago. I'd really like to have my car done.

[krupa35]

what i use to keep the Mustang perfect
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a224/05Xrunner/Detailing/JON_2749_zps4f49dc58.jpg (http://s12.photobucket.com/user/05Xrunner/media/Detailing/JON_2749_zps4f49dc58.jpg.html)
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a224/05Xrunner/Detailing/JON_2750_zpsc1b4cde0.jpg (http://s12.photobucket.com/user/05Xrunner/media/Detailing/JON_2750_zpsc1b4cde0.jpg.html)

You sir, are ready for the apocalypse!


Autoality has a discount for SCS members. Go talk to T he will get you set up!

SWEET! Thanks man


Sorry, that Croffgate, they will be at the 50th mustang. Check their web site

Will do, thanks for the input!


if you really want to save money join the Detailers club at autoality. huge discounts.
Can get MUCH better stuff at autoality then croffgate. I wouldnt put them much better then typical over the counter products.

I'll check it out, thanks!


This is a great thread to start as the amount of detailing products/opinions is mind blowing. I am wondering if it is worth paying someone to do the initial detail given the cost of some of these products. My Mustang just got painted performance white last fall with 4 layers of clear according to the shop. Here are some of my questions if anyone wants to chime in:

1. They did some last minute clear and some of the overspray is on my black molding. What product is best to remove this and enhance the black? I tested a small strip to see if it would remove and it did using wd-40. Obviously, there is a better product I should use.

2. Should I use a clay bar before applying first coat of wax?

3. What wax/sealer combo do you recommend for a fairly fresh paint job?

Thanks!

1. - Isopropyl alcohol. I had the same problem with my RX-8 when I got into a fender bender and they oversprayed the rear window seal.

2. - Yes. Wash, then clay, then wax (You can polish, buff, etc. after the clay too)

3. - I use Klasse on all my cars, but for fresh paint i'm too sure. Other guys will chime in on here with their knowledge, mine is obsolete.


Ya I think I may do this...never detailed any car before and I don't want to mess anything up haha

Black gets ruined easily if you dont know what youre doing...sucks :(

[krupa35]

https://www.facebook.com/DynamicDetailingAD?ref=hl

I guess if I **** up my buff job, I'll come to you :sticktonge:

[SonofaBish]

Call T at Autoality - he knows his stuff and can point you in the right direction. He also is a site sponsor.

agreed..... i talked to him a couple years ago and he set me up with Meguiar's 105 and 205 for polishing, and then JetSeal109 as a protectant..... the car is like a blue mirror right now.

[Zoom50]

Krupa35- I will give the alcohol a try. Thanks for the tip. I am thinking about giving the Meguiars white wax a try:

http://www.autoality.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=6407&idcategory=280#.UxNrH_ldX-s

[gmkillr]

I just used the Meguires claybar kit on my Z06 and wow...what a difference it made...car is so smooth now! Whats a good swirl mark/fine scratch remover to use and then a good sealant?

[SonofaBish]

I just used the Meguires claybar kit on my Z06 and wow...what a difference it made...car is so smooth now! Whats a good swirl mark/fine scratch remover to use and then a good sealant?

exactly what i noted above... i used exactly the same stuff... Meguiar's ClayBar, then 105 on deeper scratches, 205 on the entire car, and then Chemical Guys JetSeal109....... do all of it with a Porter Cable and it'll probably save you a ton of time.... it'll still take a while, but well worth it..... the more you do it, the better you'll get at it as well... there were some blemishes that i wasn't able to get out last year, but was able to this year, i think just because i know what i'm doing now...

[krupa35]

Krupa35- I will give the alcohol a try. Thanks for the tip. I am thinking about giving the Meguiars white wax a try:

http://www.autoality.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=6407&idcategory=280#.UxNrH_ldX-s

They sell that at wal-mart. I used it once, i wont ever use it again. Pinnacle Souveran is dope!


I just used the Meguires claybar kit on my Z06 and wow...what a difference it made...car is so smooth now! Whats a good swirl mark/fine scratch remover to use and then a good sealant?

Ardex #2 High def for the swirls with a DA (or rotary if youre good, 1500 rpms) and then Klasse all-in-one by hand and then Klasse High gloss sealant by hand. Shit will bead for months

[Monkeygrits]

This is a very good video that's shows all the steps needed to correct your car. The guy from AutoGeek.Net is an awesome teacher. I watch this video as a refresher. I buy all of my stuff from autoality. Just spent around 175 bucks there with the Detailers club. I'm switching to HD cut and HD polish this year. I also think Menzerna powerlock sealant is the best I've used. It's Sooo slick and almost feels like a shell. Modded mustangs also has a great detailing section where members will help anyone needing advice. They got me started last year.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmH6Z78JLX8&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[PaxtonShelby]

Can you guys post up pics and model numbers of the DA's you use? What will a new one set me back? I just have a big Makita variable speed buffer I've been using.

[Monkeygrits]

I have the griots garage da. It's a great unit at a great price.

[krupa35]

^I have the same. I can't complain. I use rotary more than DA, though. All wax and sealants are by hand. I throughly enjoy cleaning my car the classic way. Sippin' on some coffee and listening to some trance.

[SonofaBish]

I have a Porter Cable 7424XP

I've been tempted to buy a rotary for some tough spots, but the DA has been able to get everything out so far, so there hasnt' been a major need.......

[PaxtonShelby]

Wow Terry - that's quite a video! Watched some last night - will try to watch the rest tonight. I like the idea of a good DA just because of the smaller size ( more maneuverable ) and lighter weight ( easier on the shoulders and back! ). Plus the fact that it is almost impossible to marr the surface with the DA is very appealing. I have never used a clay bar - from the vid it seems I need to start! Can't imagine how long it will take me to do a full detail on the F250!!!

My '66 could use a wet sanding - I don't think it was ever done. That's a whole other barrel of monkeys right there! I will probably pay to have that done. Maybe after the new motor is in! :-)

[SonofaBish]

Wow Terry - that's quite a video! Watched some last night - will try to watch the rest tonight. I like the idea of a good DA just because of the smaller size ( more maneuverable ) and lighter weight ( easier on the shoulders and back! ). Plus the fact that it is almost impossible to marr the surface with the DA is very appealing. I have never used a clay bar - from the vid it seems I need to start! Can't imagine how long it will take me to do a full detail on the F250!!!

My '66 could use a wet sanding - I don't think it was ever done. That's a whole other barrel of monkeys right there! I will probably pay to have that done. Maybe after the new motor is in! :-)
Clay bar definitely makes a huge difference, but it is quite time consuming.... and for anyone out there that has clear bra on their car, keep the clay bar clear! i had to learn my lesson , as the very sharp edge of the clear bra was catching some clay bar and you have to work like hell to get it off without screwing up the clear bra...... (i only have it on my rockers and widebody)....

If you're interested in getting 90% of the same effect in about 50% of the time, they make a liquid clay bar that works just fine..... i don't think it makes the surface quite as smooth, but its considerably easier and less time consuming.... i used to use it if i had less time to get the job done.

[SK360]

I have a Porter Cable 7424XP

I've been tempted to buy a rotary for some tough spots, but the DA has been able to get everything out so far, so there hasnt' been a major need.......

Step up to the Flex.. seems to be what most guys are using these days

[SonofaBish]

Step up to the Flex.. seems to be what most guys are using these days

Or..... not.... lol

Been able to get everything out, and I use it once in a blue moon.... pointless waste of money it would be

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Note II via Tapatalk

[cLockWise]

I don't have a buffer, so I've only done the clay bar, hand wax, etc. I bought the Meguiars claybar kit as well as their wax (not the fast wax) and it really made a beautiful shine on my car and it was extremely smooth. It kept it extremely clean, however I do keep it covered during the summer as well as in my garage in the winter.

[95V6]

I've got to make my homage out to autoality when spring hits. One of my favorite sprays is the CG V7.

[John4cam]

This is a very good video that's shows all the steps needed to correct your car. The guy from AutoGeek.Net is an awesome teacher. I watch this video as a refresher. I buy all of my stuff from autoality. Just spent around 175 bucks there with the Detailers club. I'm switching to HD cut and HD polish this year. I also think Menzerna powerlock sealant is the best I've used. It's Sooo slick and almost feels like a shell. Modded mustangs also has a great detailing section where members will help anyone needing advice. They got me started last year.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmH6Z78JLX8&feature=youtube_gdata_player

That's a long video but I watched it last night. Great info there. Makes you feel like it's not that hard to get professional results. Speaking of detailing, anyone know where Rob has been lately? Haven't seen him post in a while and I miss seeing his bad ass new edge in his sig..

[Monkeygrits]

I don't have a buffer, so I've only done the clay bar, hand wax, etc. I bought the Meguiars claybar kit as well as their wax (not the fast wax) and it really made a beautiful shine on my car and it was extremely smooth. It kept it extremely clean, however I do keep it covered during the summer as well as in my garage in the winter.

If you get a buffer you will never go back. It really is a night and day difference. I thought my Mach 1 looked good before, but it is amazing now. My dad was skeptical until I was done. Then he wanted his mustang done lol.

[krupa35]

You just have to watch what clay you use. There is a huge difference between fine-grade and heavy-grade clay.

I would use a DA for beginning and then slowly work your way into a nice, lightweight, quiet rotary. If you enjoy it as much as I do, then you should spend some decent pennies on one. Once you get good you can always charge your buddies like $30-50 to do their cars.

My favorite is interior cleaning though. What products do you guys run on your interior? (carpet, vinyl, leather, rubber, plastic, trim, glass?)

[Monkeygrits]

I'm trying Chemical Guys clay block this year. There have been a few guys on modded mustangs who have used it with great results. Plus you can rinse it off if you drop it and to get the contaminants off of it. It also can be used for numerous cars. They said it does not scratch etc. It's only 20 bucks so what the hell.
http://www.chemicalguys.com/Chemical_Guys_CLAY_BLOCK_KIT_Clay_Block_V2_p/clay_block_kit.htm

[95V6]

John4cam, when did you pick up the vette!?!?

[cLockWise]

I'm trying Chemical Guys clay block this year. There have been a few guys on modded mustangs who have used it with great results. Plus you can rinse it off if you drop it and to get the contaminants off of it. It also can be used for numerous cars. They said it does not scratch etc. It's only 20 bucks so what the hell.
http://www.chemicalguys.com/Chemical_Guys_CLAY_BLOCK_KIT_Clay_Block_V2_p/clay_block_kit.htm

I've heard great things as well about that clay block.

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

[krupa35]

I'm trying Chemical Guys clay block this year. There have been a few guys on modded mustangs who have used it with great results. Plus you can rinse it off if you drop it and to get the contaminants off of it. It also can be used for numerous cars. They said it does not scratch etc. It's only 20 bucks so what the hell.
http://www.chemicalguys.com/Chemical_Guys_CLAY_BLOCK_KIT_Clay_Block_V2_p/clay_block_kit.htm


Wow that's hella nice. I might have to grab a few. Thanks for the link

[Cam99]

. What products do you guys run on your interior? (carpet, vinyl, leather, rubber, plastic, trim, glass?)

curious on this as well

[Monkeygrits]

Carpet wise I have our pet spot cleaner I use in the cars. It's just a mini carpet scrubber. Both of our daily drivers have husky liner floor mats so they only get dirt around the edges. I usually clean my dash with a damp microfiber towel and one of those trim brushes to get in the cracks. I stopped using armorall etc because it attracts dust. I use lexol cleaner and conditioner on the leather seats. Exterior black trim and tires etc. I use Optimum Optibond. Best stuff I've found by far. Autoality has it. It looks like armorall but it is dry to the touch. I use it under the hood and on the shaker as well. Not sure about inside though. Haven't tried it in there.

http://www.autoality.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=257&idcategory=59

[John4cam]

John4cam, when did you pick up the vette!?!?


Barry. It arrived last Sunday. Two hours of rain that day and guess when the carrier showed up? lol. I took it out yesterday. Does great in the snow.

[95V6]

Barry. It arrived last Sunday. Two hours of rain that day and guess when the carrier showed up? lol. I took it out yesterday. Does great in the snow.

That's awesome man. I'll keep an eye for it, there is a guy with a loud black (possibly matte black) cammed one that I see all the time in the summer. I love C5s, pop up head lights and all. Plans for it?

[John4cam]

That's awesome man. I'll keep an eye for it, there is a guy with a loud black (possibly matte black) cammed one that I see all the time in the summer. I love C5s, pop up head lights and all. Plans for it?

i'll send a pm.

[PaxtonShelby]

PM'ing the details?? WTF?!?!

[VaderGT]

I've got to make my homage out to autoality when spring hits. One of my favorite sprays is the CG V7.
Pickup a bottle of Sonax brilliant shine detailer and you will never look back. Stuff is so easy to use and the hydrophobic it gives rival coatings with beading and sheeting. it will last alot longer then V7 as well


Forget about that CG clay block. I have one used it once and threw it away. it marrs the shit out of your paint.
the speedy surface are so much better. I have both medium and fine in sponge form and they work better then the CG by miles and the fine grade removes alot and will leave very very minimal marring if any. the medium grade marrs less then the CG
http://www.autoality.com/store/pc/Speedy-Surface-Prep-Mitt-Medium-Grade-35p6486.htm#.UxXShfldU3M
http://www.autoality.com/store/pc/Speedy-Surface-Prep-Mitt-Medium-Grade-35p6486.htm#.UxXShfldU3M

for interior
I clean everything with Ultima interior shampoo gel..Carpets/leather/dash
I protect carpet with 303 aerospace fabric guard
and protect dash/plastics/leather with Ultima interior guard+

for correction I have a Griots DA machine and a Rupes 15.
I owned a flex in the past and hated it it was more of a chore to run because of the forced rotation will make it wanna walk on you if it gets any slight tilting. Also i found using my Griots and MF pads produced faster and better results then the Flex could. Since I got my Rupes I have been happy. Its so much easier to use with the large 15mm throw pretty much no downward pressure is needed and you can use it 1 handed and it glides over the paint. I can do a car faster because the larger throw corrects alot faster then the standard 8mm throws like on the Griots. I dont feel as tired after doing a car because all I am doing is directing the machine where to go I dont have to put any extra effort with applying pressure

[Monkeygrits]

Here's a shot of my parents 2013 SHO. I used Menzerna Power Lock sealer on it last Summer. It is a amazing how this stuff held up over winter. It's actually dirty in the pic and sitting outside in the rain while I use the garage. Still beads like a mofo
24324

[cLockWise]

What do you guys use to detail the engine bay?

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

[95V6]

I'll give it a shot Vader thanks.

[krupa35]

Scrubble Bubbles on the engine :)


Going to get my car washed, clayed, buffed, polished, waxed, and Xilon treatment next week all for free!!! Post results afterwards

[White5.0]

Last weekend I washed, claybar'd, washed again, then applied wolfgang deep gloss paint sealant to my 2013. hot damn. touching the paint is like warm butter.

[krupa35]

Hey my buddy just got some of that for his red Evo, that shit is like hydro-phobic

[Monkeygrits]

Did a paint correction on my 13 focus DD. It has around 19k on it and has been through 2 winters. I Washed it with dawn and then got to using the mothers clay bar. I then used HD cut only with a medium polish pad hooked to my griots garage DA. I noticed the paint was virtually flawless after this step besides the random chips from being a DD. With the meguires 105 the paint would still have a nice haze to it at this step. HD cut is definitely better than meguires 105 in my book. Little to no dust, easy to wipe off and almost perfect finish. I could've went to the HD polish on a green polish pad after this but being my DD the car looked better than when it rolled off the lot. I wiped it down with a 50/50 isopropyl alcohol and water mix and topped it off with Menzerna Power Lock sealer. Amazing stuff. Here's the pics. HD products are awesome IMO.
24483
24484
24485

[95V6]

Looks great, now do mine! lol

[Monkeygrits]

No thanks lol I still gotta do the Escape in front of it and the week before Carlisle the Mach 1 will get its spa treatment. Schedules full lol

[Terminated]

Looks good, i need to get time to do my rides and wife's.