Mobile Van still in progress!

[packrat]

If your gonna do this for a living buy a proper pressure washer I used Honda with a comet pump on it with the unloader attachment, things that it will do you can use a foamer which will save you time and money. you the water will recirculate thru the tank keeping your pump cool and helps keep your tank clean good luck

 

[ShaunD]

It has been nice being mobile and having people let me use their electric/water but, I know I will not always have customers like that. I need to get a gen at the least. I have been running around with a power convertor in case I end up having to hook up to the truck. But, its max is 850 volts. Any advice on an affordable gen that isn't super loud? I had looked at some electrics like posted here but had to go with a Karcher from a wholesale store locally. Commercial electrics are just a little more than I can spend at the moment. Thanks everyone for the great insights on mobile.

 

[packrat]

I have something you might be interested in if you don't have on already I a have the aluminum base that will mount your pressure washer to your van floor, if your interested email me [email protected]

 

[Kristopher1129]

Thanks for all the information.

How do you like your generator and how loud is it

Shawn

I have the ETQ 4000 watt generator. Got it from Sams club online. I honestly have no complaints about it. I've heard MUCH louder generators than mine. I've had conversations with customers right next to it.

But, it's not as quiet as the Hondas are obviously. But I paid about $400 for it, and it's got a muffler. For the price...I've been extremely happy with it. I hated it for a little while cause it kept stopping on me. But, I figured that problem out.

Tell her the new addition to the company will bring in more money for future dinners and presents!

That's what I told her, ha. I'm pretty sure I'm getting it. I told her to just take whatever she was gonna spend on me, and put it towards it. I'll pay the rest. If she doesn't do that...looks like I'm buying myself a birthday gift! lol :dblthumb2:

It has been nice being mobile and having people let me use their electric/water but, I know I will not always have customers like that. I need to get a gen at the least. I have been running around with a power convertor in case I end up having to hook up to the truck. But, its max is 850 volts. Any advice on an affordable gen that isn't super loud? I had looked at some electrics like posted here but had to go with a Karcher from a wholesale store locally. Commercial electrics are just a little more than I can spend at the moment. Thanks everyone for the great insights on mobile.

Like I said above, the ETQ 4000 watt generator has met all my needs. But, don't take me too literally cause it's the only generator I've ever bought. But, I did do my research, and as far as price, watts, and the noise level...this was the best choice for me.

 

[sullysdetailing]

Kris do you find the Astro van big enough for everything

Shawn

 

[Kristopher1129]

Kris do you find the Astro van big enough for everything

Shawn

I find my van to be big enough. Everything fits in nicely, and I haven't really once thought about a bigger van. I really like having the V6 versus a V8 as well. For me, and my situation...it works completely fine.

I'm not sure if I added photos of this or not...but I added some metal shelving in front of my water tank. So when you open the back doors...there's the bottle holders on the right and left, then about 4 shelves I use for storage right in front of you. I basically use the back as my pantry sort of speak.

The middle section of my van holds all the equipment. Compressor, generator, extractor, vac, buckets, etc. Once I get to a job site, I usually setup all the equipment I'm gonna need...which usually empties out the middle section.

A lot of times, if the customer gives me a garage to work out of...I'll back the van right up to one of the bay doors, and swing open my back doors. Then everything I need is right there. Just like this....

To answer your question...yes, I think the Safari does just fine! lol :dblthumb2:

 

[Wills.WindowsAndWheels]

Yeah of course. I just use the word prep cause that's what I've always called it around the shop. When I tell my guys to go prep, I mean wash basically.

I do a quick spray down to cool off panels. Spray APC on trouble spots like the grille, bottoms of doors, door jambs, crevices, wheel wells, gas chamber, etc. Then I do a thorough pressure wash while one of my guys typically cleans the wheels and tires, and I rinse them off as I go. Spray out door jambs, and such. Sometimes I'll cover the vehicle in foam to begin with if it's real grimy before the initial pressure wash.

Then I use the foam cannon, and the grit guard bucket and a wash brush. Scrub the vehicle, and rinse. Then it's prepped in my book.

So what do you use on wheel wells. I have a fender brush i use..it works...but i always get my arms all dirty on the damn tires from having to reach to get some of the deeper spots. I usually hit it with APC...let it set...scrub it and rinse it and most times they come out nice...and technique ideas or brushes you've found helpful would be interesting to see.

 

[Kristopher1129]

So what do you use on wheel wells. I have a fender brush i use..it works...but i always get my arms all dirty on the damn tires from having to reach to get some of the deeper spots. I usually hit it with APC...let it set...scrub it and rinse it and most times they come out nice...and technique ideas or brushes you've found helpful would be interesting to see.

A lot of times I actually use Malco Whitewall Cleaner on the wheel wells. I don' know why it works...but it does. If the wells are real dirty...I just scrub with a soft bristle brush. The wheels I use the Daytona brush, boars hair brush and Malco Break Off. No secrets here, ha.

 

[Wills.WindowsAndWheels]

A lot of times I actually use Malco Whitewall Cleaner on the wheel wells. I don' know why it works...but it does. If the wells are real dirty...I just scrub with a soft bristle brush. The wheels I use the Daytona brush, boars hair brush and Malco Break Off. No secrets here, ha.

Where do you buy that white wall cleaner from?

 

[Kristopher1129]

Where do you buy that white wall cleaner from?

Malco...like most of my other stuff.

 

[Wills.WindowsAndWheels]

Kris, another question on the electric PW's. I have two things that i've GOTTA have if i stick to electric (really got me considering it with the very compact size of the couple listed a page or so back!)

First...can you attach a GOOD hose to it, not like that crap PVC or whatever it is type hose that comes with the Stanley, but a quality rubber hose like on gas PW's?

Second, can you run 50' of hose with those electrics..basically, does it have enough power to push it through that much hose without LOSING power?

Lastly, can you use a pro grade PW gun on it, not the type to where you can just put on the type of 'wand' you want, but the type to where you can change the tips? The reason i ask is cause i really want to have the option of a foam cannon for some jobs and as you know, you can't use that attachment with the Stanley.

One more thing unrelated, I THINK it was you that offered to help me out with a logo? If it was, i have one almost finished and wanted you to check it out and if you have the software...maybe resize it to a higher DPI. Just need your email

Thanks man.

 

[Kristopher1129]

Kris, another question on the electric PW's. I have two things that i've GOTTA have if i stick to electric (really got me considering it with the very compact size of the couple listed a page or so back!)

First...can you attach a GOOD hose to it, not like that crap PVC or whatever it is type hose that comes with the Stanley, but a quality rubber hose like on gas PW's?

Second, can you run 50' of hose with those electrics..basically, does it have enough power to push it through that much hose without LOSING power?

Lastly, can you use a pro grade PW gun on it, not the type to where you can just put on the type of 'wand' you want, but the type to where you can change the tips? The reason i ask is cause i really want to have the option of a foam cannon for some jobs and as you know, you can't use that attachment with the Stanley.

One more thing unrelated, I THINK it was you that offered to help me out with a logo? If it was, i have one almost finished and wanted you to check it out and if you have the software...maybe resize it to a higher DPI. Just need your email

Thanks man.

The answer to the first three questions really depends on what you wanna spend. If you missed the conversation a few posts back between me and Rav777...then go back and check it out. The pressure washers we posted up will give you those capabilities you're after. The cheap models will not. But, you have to be prepared to spend around $500 or more. Unless you find a good deal on a used one of course.

I'm not saying ALL the cheaper models don't allow better hoses or guns. I know that mine won't, and a lot of them come equipped with their own hose and gun. They're usually smaller hoses, and much thinner than the ones you and me would be used to on commercial models. This is the main reason I'm stepping up to a more expensive model. I really got my eyes on that Kranzle.

My advice...starting out or not. Just get the good stuff. I tried to keep it cheap on my mobile van...even though I KNEW I was settling. If I would have realized how popular my mobile service would be, I wouldn't have blinked to get a better model. In a way...I'm glad I waited anyways cause it gave me time to research what I really need, while getting by with what I have.

As for your logo...that wasn't me. I'm not exactly the most computer literate person. But, I get by just fine, ha.

 

[Rav777]

Kris, another question on the electric PW's. I have two things that i've GOTTA have if i stick to electric (really got me considering it with the very compact size of the couple listed a page or so back!)

First...can you attach a GOOD hose to it, not like that crap PVC or whatever it is type hose that comes with the Stanley, but a quality rubber hose like on gas PW's?

Second, can you run 50' of hose with those electrics..basically, does it have enough power to push it through that much hose without LOSING power?

Lastly, can you use a pro grade PW gun on it, not the type to where you can just put on the type of 'wand' you want, but the type to where you can change the tips? The reason i ask is cause i really want to have the option of a foam cannon for some jobs and as you know, you can't use that attachment with the Stanley.

One more thing unrelated, I THINK it was you that offered to help me out with a logo? If it was, i have one almost finished and wanted you to check it out and if you have the software...maybe resize it to a higher DPI. Just need your email

Thanks man.

Hey Wills,

Just to add some more info on top of what Kris said. The higher models at least for the Kranzle has a thread on the hose for a 1/4 inch. My friend has one and says you can unscrew the supplied quick connect nipple and add a bigger hose but he still kept the 1/4. The 1/4 inch hose is fine and they do sell better quality hoses. If you cant find the rubber ones then you can jump hose sizes to a 5/16 inch and those are sold in the rubber quality you are looking for.

As Kris noted most of the higher end models will give you the freedom of hose sizes. As far as the pressure from an electric the longest hose I run on my Karcher X series is a 50' and it still has the same amount of power as if I ran a 25'. If you are hooking up the pressure washer to the garden hose then you can run a super long hose since there is pressure coming into the machine.

As far as hoses go you need to make sure that your hoses have threaded ends this way you can attach different sizes of quick connects/ hose adapters and gun adapters. If you buy a Karcher X series model then the pain with that is that they use their own type of hoses and guns. The good thing is that they make a foam cannon fitting for the Karcher models and those are super easy to connect. Just twist onto the gun and you are good to go.

 

[Wills.WindowsAndWheels]

Hey Wills,

Just to add some more info on top of what Kris said. The higher models at least for the Kranzle has a thread on the hose for a 1/4 inch. My friend has one and says you can unscrew the supplied quick connect nipple and add a bigger hose but he still kept the 1/4. The 1/4 inch hose is fine and they do sell better quality hoses. If you cant find the rubber ones then you can jump hose sizes to a 5/16 inch and those are sold in the rubber quality you are looking for.

As Kris noted most of the higher end models will give you the freedom of hose sizes. As far as the pressure from an electric the longest hose I run on my Karcher X series is a 50' and it still has the same amount of power as if I ran a 25'. If you are hooking up the pressure washer to the garden hose then you can run a super long hose since there is pressure coming into the machine.

As far as hoses go you need to make sure that your hoses have threaded ends this way you can attach different sizes of quick connects/ hose adapters and gun adapters. If you buy a Karcher X series model then the pain with that is that they use their own type of hoses and guns. The good thing is that they make a foam cannon fitting for the Karcher models and those are super easy to connect. Just twist onto the gun and you are good to go.

Hey guys thanks to both of you for the info. Im strongly considering one of the higher grade ones, just not sure which one. As you said i need to make sure the hoses have threaded ends, will work with a garden hose and a water tank (if i decide to get one) and will handle 50' of hose. I just hate to buy separate wands/attachments if i don't have to. I already have my little G-foam thing from HD i like lol...only $14 rather than $110 like the ones AG sells.

So any suggestions or do you think i should ask PW direct their opinion?

 

[Rav777]

Hey guys thanks to both of you for the info. Im strongly considering one of the higher grade ones, just not sure which one. As you said i need to make sure the hoses have threaded ends, will work with a garden hose and a water tank (if i decide to get one) and will handle 50' of hose. I just hate to buy separate wands/attachments if i don't have to. I already have my little G-foam thing from HD i like lol...only $14 rather than $110 like the ones AG sells.

So any suggestions or do you think i should ask PW direct their opinion?

Hey Wills, PM sent.

 

[sullysdetailing]

How is your etq generator holding up.

Shawn

 

[langman37]

Woaaaaa! There is so much great information in this thread.:applause: I don't event what to say. I'm gonna have to get back with ya.rops:

 

[Kristopher1129]

How is your etq generator holding up.

Shawn

It's actually been pretty good. No complaints. Starts right up, stays running, and has been great. Price was good too. :dblthumb2:

Woaaaaa! There is so much great information in this thread.:applause: I don't event what to say. I'm gonna have to get back with ya.rops:

Say you're gonna build a mobile unit! lol :xyxthumbs:

 

[dajuanNonly]

I also have a mobile van in progress and could use some insight as to what us best and cost effective generator for an air compressor combo....dont want to weak generator or compressor but dont want to waste money on one too strong....what setup do yall have my generator just broke down and am market for new one please help me buy right one

Sent from my SGH-T959 using Tapatalk

 

[art72]

Wow... only made it to page 18, and will have to pick it back up again, there's some great info here! This thread definitely sparked my interest as I just bought a 05' Chevy Express Extended Cargo Van (3/4 ton) V8 and roughly 1/2 of my desired tool arsenal for a mobile/self-contained set up.

Kris,the custom bottle holders are awesome & great job on the exterior! I wanna do a complete vinyl wrap on my van (later) as it has at least 3 small dents on every side...LOL. So, I have my share of work to do first. So far, mechanically she rides tight, although I think the driver's side wheel bearings are going, which is on the to-do list w/ the body work.

Regarding my set up, I just scored a Troy-Bilt 3550 Generator today *new in the box for $125 on Craigslist (*BINGO!) - Had to drive 150 miles round trip to pick it up, but well worth it. I picked up a floor model 3000 psi Craftsman pressure washer and saved roughly $100 on it.

Planning on picking up a 275 gallon tank (Craigslist $150) probably never fill it more than 1/2 -3/4 unless the demand requires. -Ordering a ShurFlo pump from Northern Tools ($60), an in-line Filter from Home Depot, and scoping out a 4 Gallon Craftsman Air Compressor ($180) & Ridgid 6gallon Wet/Dry within next 30 days.

*I really wanted 3 good cord reels but can't afford em' yet...unless Harbor Freight has some cheap ones. The MyTee Lite II is also "On Hold" til funds permit, so upholstery will be a workout; Folex, agitate, and wet/dry. *Wife has a Bissel with heat, but it's bulky...all tho might try it out for now.

If everything goes well, I am driving to AG in the next 10 days and picking up the following:

Note: Might add or subtract some things by then, but the wishlist consists of...

-Meg's (MC-PC-1500XP) Portar Cable XP 5.5" Kit
-Metro Vac N' Blo (MV-VBN-94BD)
-Dual Bucket Washing System (GG-Dual-C)
-Cobra Micro Starter Kit (Cobra-922)
-Auto Geek Foam Cannon (AG-LS3-1)
-The Bone by Cobra x2 (Cobra-195)
-DP Series Xtreme Foam Shampoo (DP-800)
-ShMitt Black Wheel & White/Yellow Combo (E-801802)
-ScMitt White Wash & Yellow/White Int Combo (E-800803)
-2-in-1 Wash Mitt x2 (SM-3622)
-Brinkmann Maxfire Xenon Swirl Finder (*$5 off w/ Meg PC Kit)
-Meg's Mirror Glaze #3 64oz. (M-o364)
-Poor Boy's Air Freshener (*Decided to wait)
-Detailer's Pro Series Odor Eliminator 6pk (DP-900-6pk)

Guesstimating about $1k @ AG Store??? (*Excludes other tools listed above)

*Already loaded up on microfiber towels, terry towels, shop towels @ Sam's and a few other goodies.

*Made a mistake buying a bunch of crap from Walmart, before I really knew what I needed, but have brushes, bug scrubbers, sponges, wash brush, tire brushes, bunch of Meg's tire dressings, clay, etc...

Point of this post was certainly not to brag, as truth be told... I am scared s..tless, being I have yet to wash or detail a single car! (*aside from my own) - Almost scared to touch a car worth more than $30k with a polisher...til I get some hands on practice & some time in using the PC.

-Going with either the Coleman 12'x12' or the Quickshade 10'x10' Canopy from Walmart, but know I'll need a second one soon.

Total investment thus far (*including planned purchases in the next 14 days) I am at roughly $6,500 and nearly $4k was the van w/TTT.

Add another $2k -$3k for the final touches...a Pressure Washing License and $1M-$500k General Liability insurance, Fictitious Name, Incorporating, Advertising, and (*maybe) a lot rent at a high traffic location on weekends, and I estimate to be "all-in" for Just under $10,000

Considering I priced skid rigs, trailer set-ups, and complete rigs on Craigslist, it seems a better investment and more rewarding to DIY. Naturally, I had to cut out some of the fat for now (*Like a vinyl wrap on the van, the MyTee Lite II, and a few other 'wants' - I think the ROI will be good as I gain experience, clientele, and train-up "the crew" consisting of my 17 tear old Son, the wife, and 2 our teenage girls who'll likely be working the car wash on weekends, while I focus on wax/polish/and complete paint restorations... thanks to Mike, AG, and this forum, I am learning a great deal about now.

Sorry for the long post... I will post some pics in the next few days, and appreciate Kris starting this thread, and congrats on a nice looking rig!!!:dblthumb2:

All the Best,

-Art