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BMW 3-Series (E90 E92) Forum > E90 / E92 / E93 3-series Technical Forums > Wash, Wax, Detailing and Cosmetic protection/repairs > How to detail?



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      05-23-2009, 03:12 PM   #1
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How to detail?

Hi all,

I am very new to the detailing business and all, and so I have no idea on how to detail... are there any good how to guides?

I've read this one: http://www.dmv.org/how-to-guides/detailing-car.php

Also, what would you recommend in terms of stuff that I need? Can I go for the Swissvax entry or masters kit?

Also, what is the point of masking the edges on a car? This is something I don't understand...

Thank you

(sorry for the noobish questions)
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      05-23-2009, 03:48 PM   #2
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Some good guides:

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9145
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41760
http://www.detailedimage.com/Auto-Detailing-Guide/

There are a lot of "right" ways to detail a car (even more "wrong" ways though). Tons of products out there, and different detailers like different products. DetailedImage and DetailersDomain should have just about everything you need though.

Masking the edges is typically done before a polish/paint correction with a rotary/orbital. It's to prevent the spinning pad from hitting parts of the car it shouldn't - such as emblems, grilles, window trim, headlights, taillights, etc.
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      05-23-2009, 04:04 PM   #3
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Thank you.
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      05-24-2009, 12:33 PM   #4
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Also, does the car come waxed from the factory? What should I do to get rid of all the protective stuff that came from the dealer or the factory before I apply my own stuff?

Thanks.
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      05-24-2009, 12:51 PM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by D_o_S View Post
Also, does the car come waxed from the factory? What should I do to get rid of all the protective stuff that came from the dealer or the factory before I apply my own stuff?

Thanks.
Wash, clay, wash, dry, polish, seal, wax. Take your time, be patient and know as much as you can about the products you choose to use.

If you're really NEVER detailed before then I wouldn't suggest using anything more than an orbital waxer/polisher regarding mechanized applicators. The above post referenced some good guides to familairize yourself with. Although I tend to not agree with some of the info jopa489 posts; the references he gave will definitely get you pointed in the "right" direction.

I have more than 14 years of experience in detailing/reconditioning (mainly dealing with exotics/European automobiles). This makes it difficult to be more specific in answering your question. You will do best to start off small. As you become more comfortable with the products you're using and the end result achieved; you'll come into your own technique and knowledge.
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      05-25-2009, 08:59 AM   #6
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Ok,

so here is my shopping list:

Meguiars Gold Class car wash
Meguiars Microfibre wash mitt
Meguiars Chamois (for drying? or should I use my air compressor instead?)
Swissvax Blau Weiss
4 Uber Yellow wax applicators
Swissvax paint rubber
Swissvax cleaner fluid
Swissvax Quick Finish
Swissvax Pneu
Swissvax Detail Brush

Anything I am missing?
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      05-25-2009, 11:31 AM   #7
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Your list looks really good! I would use the air if available ....... defiinitely helps to dry quicker.
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      05-25-2009, 11:58 AM   #8
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how about some microfiber or terry cloths to wipe down?
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      05-25-2009, 12:32 PM   #9
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how about some microfiber or terry cloths to wipe down?

I'm guessing he just forgot to mention those. The oversized mf towels are great! They can be had thru DI or DD.
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      05-25-2009, 09:51 PM   #10
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This might go without saying, but don't forget Grit Guards for your buckets. They really do help.
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      05-25-2009, 10:01 PM   #11
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the only thing I would add to all the above is that if you do in fact go straight to a orb....and you've never really used one before, practice on another car. I actually took a class on using my orb, then went home and practiced on my company car. I didn't make any real mistakes....but it's nice to know that if you do screw up it won't be on your pride and joy. the good news is random orb's are very "idiot proof".
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      05-25-2009, 11:11 PM   #12
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Foam gun! Picked mine up off amazon for like 20$ and its the best thing ever!
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      05-25-2009, 11:16 PM   #13
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the only thing I would add to all the above is that if you do in fact go straight to a orb....and you've never really used one before, practice on another car. I actually took a class on using my orb, then went home and practiced on my company car. I didn't make any real mistakes....but it's nice to know that if you do screw up it won't be on your pride and joy. the good news is random orb's are very "idiot proof".
Yeah, I remember using one years ago in a detail shop that weighted in @ nearly 20lbs. It was awesome!
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      05-25-2009, 11:17 PM   #14
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Foam gun! Picked mine up off amazon for like 20$ and its the best thing ever!
What brand did you get??
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