Hey everyone, so I'm new to the forums and I have some questions for you guys. So about 6 months ago or so I got a 2006 Chevy Monte Carlo SS and this car has been my pride and joy. Since I have had this car I have learned a lot about car detailing and I enjoy it a ton, to the point where I think I could turn my love of cars, and making cars look good, a job. I haven't been out of high school for very long (it is coming up on 2 years) and I currently work at best buy. It started off as being a good job and was far better then Micky D's. However, my store has changed a ton in these short 2 years and it is to the point where I'm tired of the management and I'm tired of all the best buy stereo types. So I have been thinking a lot recently and I think I want to start up my own business and be my own boss. I have good work ethic and I love hard work and getting my hands dirty. So that part I'm good with, what I'm unsure about is what kind of things do I need and what kind of tools would you guys recommend? I know I would probably need a new polisher as the one I have is probably older then me haha. I'm sure I also need a vacuum, extension cords, hose, steamer, maybe a water tank, water pump, and a power washer. Along with lots of rags and towels. What is a good polisher, steamer, etc.? Also is there anything else you guys would recommend and is there anyone who does detailing as a job that can offer any tips or anything like that. Thanks a lot guys
Being a "professional" detailer
- Thread starter iMuf
- Start date
garyg7133
New member
- Sep 7, 2011
- 309
- 0
First off, welcome aboard.
Second, start with the search function (polishers, wax,chemicals, business practices) and read as much as you can possibly stand (and then some more) in this and all sections of this forum. Since I have joined, I have learned a ton just by scrolling and reading other members' posts.
Third, don't quit your day job. It is going to take you a while to build any kind of client base AND I would strongly suggest trying products and techniques on your own vehicle (or some panels from a junkyard) before putting product to paint on someone else's vehicle. That said, if you have questions that you don't find via search or need a more immediate answer, the people here are more than willing to offer a bevy of opinions and knowledge. My personal preferences are Zymol for waxing, Porter Cable for my DA Polisher, Lake Country for my pads and a handful of Pinnacle, Meguires, and Stoner for various other needs.
Second, start with the search function (polishers, wax,chemicals, business practices) and read as much as you can possibly stand (and then some more) in this and all sections of this forum. Since I have joined, I have learned a ton just by scrolling and reading other members' posts.
Third, don't quit your day job. It is going to take you a while to build any kind of client base AND I would strongly suggest trying products and techniques on your own vehicle (or some panels from a junkyard) before putting product to paint on someone else's vehicle. That said, if you have questions that you don't find via search or need a more immediate answer, the people here are more than willing to offer a bevy of opinions and knowledge. My personal preferences are Zymol for waxing, Porter Cable for my DA Polisher, Lake Country for my pads and a handful of Pinnacle, Meguires, and Stoner for various other needs.
Here is a good write up about getting started with the basics.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/how-make-money-detailing-cars/64194-500-mobile-detailing-startup-simple-walk-through.html
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/how-make-money-detailing-cars/64194-500-mobile-detailing-startup-simple-walk-through.html
- Thread starter
- #5
That was really helpful, I really appreciate it. I have another question for anyone who has an answer, I have been looking at just getting a porter cable 7424 XP. I was wondering what everyone's opinions were on this polisher? I have read really good things about it. Just want to make sure I'm no throwing my money away when I could throw in $40 more and get something that will be better.
Let me put it to you this way, I read up on every forum I could find for a full 9 months before I even started to purchase detailing products and tools, so research is your best friend at this point.
To answer your question, a 7424 is a good polisher, but for a little added money, get a Griot's 6" polisher with the 20' cord.
To answer your question, a 7424 is a good polisher, but for a little added money, get a Griot's 6" polisher with the 20' cord.
rmagnus
New member
- May 28, 2011
- 1,446
- 0
+1 PC is good GG is better and a step up. If $$ was a concern ond only one polisher was in the budget it would be a GG.
Mind you doing this professionally you will eventually require a few polishers. Start small and invest in your business. It will grow in time.
Mind you doing this professionally you will eventually require a few polishers. Start small and invest in your business. It will grow in time.
Cosmin
Member
- Oct 31, 2009
- 742
- 0
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...ferraris-12-porsches-2-bentleys-8-months.html
that`s my story, and i still work on it
first you need a business plan ...without that you will fail or will take you longer, even if you are good at detailing.
that`s my story, and i still work on it
first you need a business plan ...without that you will fail or will take you longer, even if you are good at detailing.
dorkiedoode
New member
- Apr 1, 2013
- 307
- 0
sorry to tell you buddy but you'll going to have to start with a lot..... of reading like everyone said. i literally spend a month just reading and searching... and i read slow lol