Evan.J
New member
- Sep 18, 2012
- 4,915
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In my how-to book, I talk about two different ways to wash a car.
Who reading this post has my book? Can I get someone to volunteer to tell everyone what it says about the two different ways?
In the book I explain the concept of how washing a car affects not only the longevity of any LSP but also how it affects swirls and scratches being re-instilled into the paint.
Detailing How-To Book and Detailing How-To E-book by Mike Phillips
I actually don't know of anyone else that has ever explained the two different approaches to washing a car and the how and why behind the concepts. And if you've spent an entire Saturday machine polishing all the defects out of your car or a customer's car, then properly prepping the paint for a coating and then carefully applying the coating, if you want the results like you see on the Porsche to last then it's very important that you treat the car appropriately.
You need to be intelligent about how you treat any highly polished car no matter what the LSP if you want it to last as long as possible and look good as long as possible. That's two thing by the way...
Good question Eric. I read through your blog too, nice article on how to properly use clay, includes some of the same tips I always share. I noticed you recommend some other blogs for tips on how to detail cars but don't mention AGO?
You're active on this forum and I like that, maybe consider sharing us too? That's what I call, Win/Win.
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Mike to answer your question:
2 Approaches to washing your car:
1. Aggressive Approach - Washing before a detailing session (neglected paint)
2. Careful Approach - Washing after a detailing session (Show car finish)
Aggressive Aprroach:
When washing a neglected finish the priority is getting the car as cleaned as possible (not being as careful as possible.) It is okay to wash the car in the neglected condition a little more aggressively to get it surgically clean, because any defects you instill during the washing process will be removed during the correction steps. Your goal is to ensure that you've removed as much looser as possible from the car so that the dirt particles won't enter into the claying step or any of the machine polishing procedures.
Careful Approach:
If the finish on your car is in excellent condition, then you want and need to increase the level of care use while washing the car. Your priority is to avoid instilling any swirls scratches or marring back into the paint. Anything that touches it must be clean, soft, and gentle. While washing, you need to focus on the task at hand and use expert technique.