Length of a proper detail

[Kamakaz1961]

I have been reading up quite a bit lately on this exact Flex 3401 model you speak about. Is time being saved because you need far less passes with this Flex 3401 to get awesome results?

Not to be ignorant but what makes the Flex save time over the Porter Cable? Isn't the technique and number of passes the same?

The Flex is a "Forced Orbital Rotation" DA. In other words it will keep on moving regardless. This is the only DA (that I know of) on the market that does this.

Additionally, you can get different size backing plates for different size pads. I use the 6.5" Pads for doing my detailing. That alone reduces time.

You have to try it to see what I mean. This alone is a time saving method.

Everyone's technique is different here and the times will vary. I look at what I can do to reduce without ruining quality. Additionally, I have been doing this for quite some time (albeit different methods) and just honing my technique to become better overall and quicker at what I do.

I hope I helped

 

[Audios S6]

I did a jetta this past weekend. 6 hours total: interior, exterior, set-up and tear-down.

Interior:
Detrash, bat down all cloth to remove dust (lots) and air purge, dry brush, vac, extract carpets, steam cloth seats, crevices and all buttons, APC all vinyl, steam seat belts, APC and steam jambs, dress all hard surfaces, glass cleaned

Exterior:
Wheels with acid, wheels and tires with APC, tar remover, foam pre-soak and crevice brush, rinse, iron-x, 2BM wash to remove iron-x, nano skin on DA, HD speed on a rupes 4 passes at moderate speed, glass cleaned, trim dressed

If that's what you call proper with an AIO, then you are not moving too slow. Was it my best work? Absolutely not, that would take 2-4 times as long. It was a swirled up, shiny exterior and spotless interior, that's what the owner wanted. Swirls were definitely improved and the oxidation was gone, but by no means a show-n-shine worthy finish, proper by the owner's standard.

 

[VP Mark]

How long a detail takes is COMPLETELY up to...

1. How much you are getting paid.
2. If you are not getting paid, how high of standards you have for the end result.

There is no magic bullet time frame. Now if someone says how much time for a wash, clay, sealant, vacuum, perfect door jambs, and interior dressing, then we could debate.