Auto detailing is the practice of
performing an extremely thorough cleaning of an automobile, both inside and
out. Paint renovation is the removal of surface scratches and blemishes by
'levelling' the paint with a rotary machine, and the application of a wax or
paint sealant to produce a show-quality level of detail.
It can be practiced
for personal satisfaction, and it is also performed to prepare a car for a
Concours d'Elegance (often shortened to just Concours), a car show that
features the appearance of cars. Elements of exterior detailing include
claying, polishing, and waxing. Interior detailing involves the cleaning of the
interior of a vehicle using vacuums, liquid cleaners, and brushes. Engine
detailing involves cleaning the engine bay area of dirt and grease by using
degreasers and all-purpose cleaners.
A detailer combines chemicals, equipment
as well as knowledge of the materials used in automotive manufacturing (vehicle
surfaces). ‘Chemicals’, refers to the cleaning and protection products used,
‘equipment,’ refers to the tools used, for example, random orbital polishers,
high-speed rotary polishers, extractors and power washers, to name but a few.
Vehicle surfaces require a basic understanding of chemistry and how to
rejuvenate and protect each of the many and varied material surfaces,
regardless of its specific surface composition making objective observations
based upon experience, the results obtained, and adjusting the techniques and
products used as necessary.
Detailing also takes a willingness to
experiment, which usually means deviating from the product manufacturers
directions, making objectives observations based upon experience and adjusting
the techniques used as necessary, always keeping an open mind on manufacturer’s
claims for their products.
Cleaning
Is an essential part in the maintaining
the appearance of a vehicle. The objective when detailing a vehicle is to make
a vehicle look as good as it can. In many cases make it look better than it was
when new. Detailing can take a lot of time, but the results are always worth
the effort. Proper detailing will also protect a vehicle from environmental
hazards that can rob life away from your vehicle.
In order to attain and
maintain an optically perfect shine, you must protect it from natural
deterioration and dullness that occurs over time as well as introducing new
defects by techniques like the 2 Bucket Wash Method.
Detailing can be very simple and fun if
you use the correct methodologies and products that work. Research other
options and products, test them and then make an objective decision based upon
factual information not hype or brand loyalty. After all, how can you fully
understand and properly use any product unless you have all the facts? It is
also recommended that you should also verify any information that anyone shares
with you. The only way to do this is a consistent three-step routine;
Clean,
Polish, Protect
The TOGWT Detailing Wiki
The purpose of these articles is to show
you various ways, utilizing various skills and experience levels, on how to
retrieve the original or better appearance / finish to your vehicles bodywork
and its interior and how to preserve and maintain it, along with product
recommendations and there correct application methods. With constant advances
in products and procedures, a standard published book would be out of date very
quickly due to the publishing procedures and printing requirements.
To be of real practical use, a subject
like automotive detailing requires a great deal of research, and updating as
new products become available. The advent of materials like detailing clay,
microfiber technologies and finely milled micro diminishing abrasives, suitable
for ceramic nano-technology paints are examples of why it’s so important to
monitor the industries new products, chemical technologies and ideas that are
constantly being introduced, as are the techniques for applying them.
Unbiased
information written by a detailer with extensive experience allied with a
chemical technical background, without the need to meet corporate goals or
sales quotas, requires a dynamic learning tool like a website that can be
revised and updated as and when needed, these articles are updated and / or
revised on an as-needed basis. There is also a facility to seek clarification
or ask questions in 'real time'.
I hope these articles will
become an asset to anyone who is new to detailing and to the professionals;
enthusiast detailer’s and industry experts who seek to advance their knowledge
of detailing entry level enthusiast, but to professionals and industry experts
as well. Detailing takes skill, an investment in equipment as well as
constantly updating your knowledge base
The most comprehensive,
in-depth detailing information available - with over five decades of detailing
experience distilled in all of these educational posts for both professional
and neophyte detailers, covering Detailing, Business, Marketing and so much
more Within these articles you’ll discover the ‘How’ and ‘Why’ and find pretty
much everything you need to know about detailing.
I then considered how I
could simplify things; however the only way to accomplish this would be to omit
necessary information and that didn’t feel right to me. Improperly used
chemicals can cause damage to the person using them and to surface they are
applied to (sometimes irreparably) because the detailer did not have sufficient
information of the possible adverse effect of the chemicals in the products
they use. However if your used to a 140 character type response these articles
may not be for you
I hope the articles are informative. By having some
understanding of the ‘What’ and ‘Why’ as well as the ‘How’ along with a little
science to help you understand how the chemicals we use react, you can achieve
the results you desire.
I would appreciate it if you would share these article
as it helps other detailers further their knowledge. Questions
and/ or constructive comments are always appreciated
Disclaimer
The information contained herein is
believed to be true and accurate; however we make no guarantees concerning the
veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the
reader's own risk. The detailing methods set out here have been adapted for
special use and may not be the same as those recommended by the product
manufacturer, and you may experience different results from those stated. When
in doubt always use common sense.
Some methods described may be beyond the
capabilities of the average detailer or enthusiast; in this case we strongly
encourage the reader to consult a professional detailer or body shop concerning
the matters discussed herein. The writer(s) or owners of this site assume no
responsibility, expressed or implied, due to misuse or misinterpretation of the
information or Methods used, or for any vehicle damage or injury that may occur
due to the suggestions and information offered.
Research
Research others opinions and products,
test them and then make an objective decision based upon factual information
not marketing hype or brand loyalty. Choose carefully whose advice you listen
to, and more importantly what advice you act upon.
Copyright
© All original material in these
articles is copyright, unless otherwise stated, and may be copied and
distributed for non-commercial purposes only as long as the source of the material
is stated.
.
Copyright © 2002 - 2012 TOGWT® (Established
1980) all rights reserved
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