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About the
Author
The naked
Scientist promises to strip car care chemicals to their bare essentials,
biotech, nanotechnology, chemistry and the chaos theory are also involved. And
this being doctor Jon, you’ll require certain items, a syringe, a microscope,
possibly something designed by NASA
Born in
London, England in 1944, I studied at studied at the London School of
Economics and Political Science (MSc) Business Management, after graduation I
joined the RAF and attended Royal Air Force College at Cranwell, Officer Cadet
training graduating as a Flight Lieutenant. I then gained a position in the Oil
& Gas, Hydrocarbon Exploration sector working for a British Oil & Gas
Exploration Company, a few years later was granted a scholarship, and studied
at Imperial College, London graduating with a Doctorate (PhD) in Chemical
Engineering
Timeline – detailing was
never my prime source of income, I detailed Concours
d’élégance vehicles at week-ends and school holidays. While at university I had
a job at the Connolly™ Leather Company in Wimbledon. I detailed
my first car in 1958 at the age of fourteen and gave up hands-on detailing in
1995. Since then I have written books (often as a ‘ghost writer’) and articles
for motoring magazines, I run a website as well as a Blog (all detailing
orientated) I'm an active contributor to various on-line detailing forums as
well as Facebook
I began
detailing Mercedes-Benz / BMW helping out at my Father’s dealership where we would
spend three or four days or more detailing vehicles. As well as his Jag
collection back in the late 50's, which he used to enter in Concours d’élégance
events (detailing to another level) and as such I'm used to a large
number of high-end new and used cars. The one thing I learned (and still have that last 98% to learn, mind you) way back then still holds true today “ It’s
the surface preparation that makes the difference, not the product”.
The Bentley 4½ Litre is a British sports car built by Bentley Motors. Its supercharged variant is also known as the Blower Bentley. Famous for his statement "there's no replacement for displacement", Walter Owen Bentley upped the displacement of the Bentley 3 Litre in 1926 to produce the 4½ Litre. Upon taking control of the company, the "Bentley Boys" went in search of even more power and developed the supercharged model in 1929 at Henry Birkin's racing workshops in Welwyn Garden City. A 4½ Litre Bentley raced at Le Mans in 1927 but crashed. Another claimed victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1928 with drivers Woolf Barnato and Bernard Rubin at the wheel.
This is the car author Ian Fleming first chose for James Bond. It is featured in three of the 007 Novels, Casino Royale, Live and Let Die and Moonraker. In the book, Bond drives one of the last blower Bentley built, a battleship grey Convertible Coupé, with French Marchal headlamps and an Amherst Villiers supercharger. Interestingly, Ian Fleming himself owned a 'blower' from whence the inspiration for Bond's car came. Even more interesting is the fact Fleming bought the car from Amherst Villiers after it was produced for him by Bentley. The car was recently to be seen in the Yorkshire Motor Museum, Batley but since the museum's closure it has passed into a private collection.
I detailed my
first car when I was fourteen (a mere five and a half decades ago) it was a
1929 Bentley Production 1926–1930
(supercharged model from 1929) 720 produced (cost today £ 2 M) that belonged to
my Fathers friend Brigadier John Dix of Kensington, London. If, as they say,
"God is in the details," then a 1929 Bentley is truly a religious
experience. I knew then that detailing would become a passion and my metier
Detailing has
always been a relaxing past time for me and while at college I had a part-time
business detailing classic vintage cars. From there to Concours d’élégance
entrant then judge, and then on to writing car care articles
/instructions, then writing this book on my favourite subject. I have tried
virtually every top product on the market ever since using the arm-breaking
Simonize as well as T-Cut polish and Chelsea leather
cleaners
With a
background in the physical and chemical sciences and decades in the performance
coatings industry it is my intent to educate, based on five plus decades of
experience; passing on to my readers the dynamics that take place; the cause
and effect not just “How” it works, but also “Why” it works, as well as an
explanation of the scientific terminology and chemicals involved with detailing
products and helps to maintain the focus on the process as much as the results.
I try to write in a way that helps the reader to understand the technical and
scientific facts along with any relevant chemical information, but if you've read any of my forum posts / threads you'll already understand just what I mean
I've always
believed in empowering my reader’s with facts based on knowledge, experience
and scientific facts as opposed to marketing hype and letting them make their
own logical decisions. Because I’m passionate about what I do and care about
making sure detailing is a safe, fun and rewarding experience for the
enthusiast and professional detailer
Foreword
Foreword
Having been
involved in detailing some of the world’s finest classic and high-end exotic
and luxury automobiles for five decades TOGWT®
is the first place both Professional and Enthusiast detailer’s look to
for an uncompromising level of
unbiased technical and scientific knowledge.
Working closely with the industry’s leading-edge product manufacturers from
around the world means the best technology and product advice is available to
enable you to care for your automobile.
The old grey
whistle test (TOGWT aka Jon Miller) is the author of “Automotive Detailing;
Inside and Out”, a knowledge base for the perfectionist and a 140+ articles
that form the series “The Technical Detailing Papers” (can be found on the
Autopia.org website – TOGWT Detailing Wiki))When I first started writing these
detailing guides I realized that it would be very detailed (no pun intended)
because of my penchant to include not just “How it works, but also “Why” it
works, as well as an explanation of the scientific terminology. With that in
mind I probably respond with more detail than some think is necessary. But try
to write in a way that helps the reader to understand not only "How"
to do something, but "Why" they are doing it. 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
Reading these articles will not improve your detailing skills, lead to a successful business or change your life. Applying what you learn from it, however, will. That's where your commitment comes in - you need to make a commitment to yourself right now that you will take action on what you learn.Chances are you own a fine automobile, maybe even an expensive one and you want to give it the best care.
Reading these articles will not improve your detailing skills, lead to a successful business or change your life. Applying what you learn from it, however, will. That's where your commitment comes in - you need to make a commitment to yourself right now that you will take action on what you learn.Chances are you own a fine automobile, maybe even an expensive one and you want to give it the best care.
Our harsh
environment isn't concerned with how fine an automobile you own, but these tips
are mythologies are written for those who do. A well maintained and cared for
automobile not only looks good but also worth much more when the time comes to
sell it. Regardless of how neglected or soiled the vehicle has become you will
find the methodology and products in this book to restore that ‘as-new’ look
again.
Every week-end
you’ll find people washing and cleaning their vehicles, some doing the bare
minimum and some who find it therapeutic; washing away the stress of daily life
(some have even called it their ‘golf’) By using the right tools, methods and
products, a simple car wash can be achieved in very little time; using very
little water Optimum No Rinse (ONR) and a just detailed look with Quick
Detailing (QD) For the person who wants a more thorough cleaning or the
perfectionist you’ll find a range of products and methodologies to produce an
‘optically perfect shine’.
Car cleaning
done the wrong way can be at best disappointing, and can do more long-term
damage to the various vehicle surfaces. The purpose of this book is to show you
various ways, utilizing various skill and experience levels, how to retrieve
the original looking finish to your bodywork and interior and how to maintain
it. Although it is divided into separate elements for vehicle detailing, the
approach taken is the assumption that you are giving your vehicle a complete
detail, even if you take it one element at a time. The order in which the
various sections are arranged to enable you to do the various detailing steps,
in the most time efficient manner and is the adopted procedure for trained professional
detailers.
There are also
sections explaining various components, detailing tools and products, and
chemicals as well as an A-Z of detailing terms and methods to enable an
understanding of the “why” as well as the “how” of detailing (also includes
cleaning tips and professional tricks)
This section has
been expanded to help you deal safely and effectively with virtually every car
care detailing situation you might come across, and you can do so with the
knowledge and peace of mind that the products recommended and the application
methods have gone through an amazing amount of real-world testing on many
different marques and their paint film systems.
The proper way
to find out what works and what doesn't is to read the label or relevant MSDS
and find out what it contains; a combination of knowledge and experience will
guide you the rest of the way.
As a Chemical
Engineer I would like to help detailers reach an intelligent and logical
understanding of the many chemicals used in detailing. Improperly used
chemicals can cause damage to the person using them and to surface they are
applied to (sometimes irreparably) because the detailer was not educated
regarding the chemical make-up of the products they used.
Conversely I
also want to tell you that it's a waste of time to dedicate too much time and
attention to them. All that is required is that you learn some basic chemistry
i.e. what pH values mean, what chemicals will safely remove stains and what
detailing chemicals to avoid or the precaution to take if you do choose to use
them.
If a product is
not working for you, experiment until you find one that’s suitable for your needs.
After reading these articles, you should have a basic understanding of the
chemicals used in car care products along with some simple generic definitions
of the chemicals used. Enthusiast grade products are the cream of the crop and
are only available through limited distributors both locally and online.
Professionals
typically don't use these products because of time restraints and / or there
price point. Whether you have a daily commuter, a concourse show vehicle or you
just want to protect what has now become an expensive automotive investment.
Most of the answers to maintaining an ‘as new’ condition can be found here.
Unbiased advice without any exaggerated claims or marketing hype.
As a detailer, you already face an enormous number of
product choices in the market, and every few months, the next
"greatest" detailing product attempts to capture your attention long
enough to score your dollars. Over-complication is often used in marketing to
give the illusion of a more research-oriented manufacturer. The opposite of the
very successful approach to product selection KISS (keep it simple stupid)
The products
recommended are easy to use, following the stated methods, gentle towards the
many different material automotive materials and finishes, safe for both you to
use and the environment. This is not a short cut guide, but a list of
recommended methods / products to provide maximum protection for your vehicle,
so you will enjoy maintaining the vehicle in an as-new (or better) condition
for as long as possible.
I didn’t
invent detailing, nor did I invent many of the techniques used in these
following articles. I do however; use these processes and techniques, all of
which have proven them to work effectively, providing consistent show-winning
results. As a long-term regular contributor to the online detailing community
I openly
recommend products that I use (I test many products and only endorse those that
work (i.e. they do what it says on the box) and try my best not to use ‘hype’
terms. I strive to take an ethical stand on testing vendor products, especially
those ‘donated for testing. Thus
allowing readers to know the difference between editorial content and
advertising; it's only my recommendation no matter what products you use the
recommended methodology will apply.
I have always
tried to learn from other people, and keep an open mind on new ideas, new
products and new techniques. It really does all come down to Process over
Product; 85% preparation, 5% application methodology, 2% knowledge of
paint finish and 5% product suitability,
the balance is the ‘emotive reaction’ of the beholder. A manufacturer is free
to place any claim of excellence he wants on his product to make it sell, I
only endorse a product that I have personal experience of by using it, rather
than personal preference, brand loyalty or emotions.
After five
plus decades of detailing vehicles what is left is experience, and experience
unshared is knowledge wasted. I hope that you too enjoy the learning process as
much as I do and with the help of the techniques and methods in this book your
vehicle will become something to have pride in, or perhaps even become a “Best
of Show” Concours d’élégance winner
The more I
learn, the more I realize what I don’t know. Then at some point, I hope to have
learned enough to realize, that I know nothing at all [We
are all apprentices in a craft where no one ever becomes a master] [Ernest Hemingway] I have always tried
to find out not just “How it works, but also “Why” it works. With that in mind
I probably respond with more detail than some think is necessary.
When the Old
Grey Whistle Test went on air (BBC Television, England) in 1971 it was unique,
in a world accustomed to Top of the Pops, here was a show on which the
bands performed album tracks and were interviewed after they had played. This
was before the days of miming, the music was live and, since the idea was to
air new sounds, many of the bands were making their first television appearance.
The title’s opening sequence featured an animation of a man kicking a star. He
was to become affectionately known as The Starkicker.
Presenter Bob
Harris (whispering Bob) recalls how the show's name was inspired by the doormen
(in grey suits) who worked at the music publishing houses in London's Denmark
Street, known as 'tin pan alley':
"It
was a 'tin pan alley' phrase from years ago. When they got the first pressing
of a record they would play it to people they called the old greys. The ones they
could remember and could whistle having heard it just once or twice had passed
the old grey whistle test".
My
adaptation:
The old grey
whistle test infers that the blokes with a little grey in their hair have
tested these products or tools in real world situations, on many different car
marques and various automotive paint system’s, they are recommended as they
have been found to do what they were designed to do, usually more than adequately.
Thank you for
spending the time to learn from this book. I’ve made every effort in providing
you with as much information as possible to enable you to obtain results that
are without equal.
I have learned
a lot from various detailing forums, most noticeably Autopia and the various
contributors who are prepared to share their knowledge and experience and they
are in large part the inspiration for this book,
I would also
like to make a special mention to Bill Doyle and others from Autopia for their
suggestions and for proof-reading. I would be remiss if I did not also give
recognition to the following Autopia members for their inspiration;
Accumulator, BlgZ28conv, DETAILKING, DavidB, Ron Ketchum (Grumpy), MPhillips,
The other PC, Scottwax, et al
This is not
a product vendor’s catalogue, nor a vendor pretending to be an
educator, as there are a lot of companies that are now writing online books and
DVD’s on detailing and preaching that only the product they sell or manufacture
are suitable. In reality they are just advertisements, with the appearance of
educators as opposed to mere salesman. Those who have something to sell can be
very persuasive, often using marketing facts (i.e. blurring the distinction between science and fiction) to make a
great case while completely ignoring meaningful points, like their product adds
nothing of real value.
Commercialism brings with it concerns of
honesty and true representation. In other words, it’s difficult to know what is
true when someone is motivated by income, i.e. directly targeted at product
sales, more so than an unbiased opinion.
I think that the
more real facts you know the better. I don't set hoods on fire, or subject
paint to a laser beam, nor do I pour acid on the paint. Detail products work on
their real merits, not on smoke and mirrors. It is my intent to educate and
pass on five decades of experience to my readers in not only the “How it works’
but “Why it works”. Because I’m passionate about I do and care about making
sure detailing is a fun and rewarding experience for the enthusiast
I have no
affiliation, professional or otherwise with the listed companies, or their
products. I use and recommend them as they do what the manufacturer says they
will. There are many other products in the marketplace that may be equally
suited to the tasks listed, however I have used the products listed and found them
satisfactory for my use.
The advent of
materials like detailing clay, micro fibre technologies and finely milled micro
abrasives suitable for ceramic hard paint 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, hence
this e-book will be up-dated and revised on a regular basis
Detailing
combines chemicals, equipment as well as a knowledge of 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 a few. ‘Vehicle
Surfaces’, requires 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
objectives observations based upon the results obtained, and adjusting the
techniques used as necessary
Detailing also
takes willingness to experiment, which usually means deviating from the product
manufacturer’s directions, making objectives observations based upon the
results obtained, and adjusting the techniques and products used as necessary,
always keeping an open mind on manufacturer’s claims for their products.
Copyright
© 2002-2010, TOGWT ®Ltd (Established 1980) all rights reserved
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