Pictures: May 2016 Competition Ready 3-Day Detailing Class with Mike Phillips

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

Pictures: May 2016 Competition Ready 3-Day Detailing Class with Mike Phillips


This is the thread for all the pictures and comments from the May Class.


Here's the graduating class of May 2016!


Sean

Tevin

Jesse

Ryan

Paulo

Scott

Misael

Alex

Gary

Richard

Ryan

Ken

Cleber

Jose

Chris

Jacob

Fred

Paul

Larry

Christian

Rich

Larry

Axel

David

Great job everyone!


:dblthumb2:

 

[ALastingImpression]

Re: The training cars for the 2016 May Competition Ready 3-day Detailing Class

Class was awesome man really enjoyed it and learned a lot. Can't wait to get out in the field and grow, thanks a lot Mike will see you Saturday at the cars n coffee!

 

[sss7912]

Mike's Competition Ready detailing class

I just finished Mike's 3 day "Competition Ready Detailing Class" held at Autogeek. Yes, I've read plenty of forums, and I've viewed videos on proper use of tools and chemicals. But, if you're like me, I learn the BEST from reading, seeing, and DOING. This class is spectacular. There's very little "classroom" training. Instead, it's almost ALL hands on training. Mike and his team have you working on great cars that have their challenges. After they're fully detailed, you can't imagine the improvement...it's shocking!

Spend the $1,500, and learn how to properly take care of the investments you've made. There's no reason to risk it by letting someone else put their hands on your cars.

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

Re: The training cars for the 2016 May Competition Ready 3-day Detailing Class

First up - 1959 Cadillac Convertible and a 1941 Studebaker President

The 1959 Cadillac is fully restored with only 17,000 miles on it. The paint is new and it is a basecoat/clearcoat paint system just like new cars and trucks have.

The 1941 Studebaker President is a streetrod with a small block Chevy engine and automatic transmission. It has an antique single stage paint job.


These were the warm-up training cars for Friday. Friday is Fun Day! It's the day you learn to use all the popular polishers you see and hear about in the blogosphere. We start out with the easiest tools to learn how to use and master and these would be,

Porter Cable 7424XP Dual Action Polisher - 8mm orbit stroke length
Griot's Garage 6" Dual Action Polisher - 8mm orbit stroke length
Meguiar's MT300 Dual Action Polisher - 8mm orbit stroke length
Cyclo Polisher - 15mm orbit stroke length

For these two cars we used McKee's 37 products including,

McKee's 37 Fast Compound
McKee's 37 Fast Polish
McKee's 37 Jeweling Wax

The pads used were Lake Country 5.5" foam flat pads, orange, white and black.



BEFORE PICTURES

I have before pictures for the Cadillac but the 1941 Studebaker was a last minute substitute as the 1956 Buick Special that was supposed to be at the class canceled. The Studebaker was dropped off late Thursday night and we started first thing Friday morning so - no time to get the before pictures.

I have the longest history of any online detailer of fully documenting all my work and all my classes so you can take my word for it or not, that's up to you but I'm here to tell you that the paint on the Studebaker was a WRECK before my class used it as a training car.


Caddy Before Pictures

Swirl City
I parked this car outside in the sun to document what the paint actually looks like and as you can see it's filled with swirls, scratches and some water spots. The people that attend this class will be the people that learn how to create a true show car finish on one of the most popular cars ever built in the history of man.

Studebaker before pictures
I didn't take these my guess is Andre did. Thanks Andre. Notice how the color is lighter than the after pictures and a lot of this is the cause of oxidation over time.

Here's my class that did the amazing extreme makeovers to these two beautiful cars.

Here's my class that did the amazing extreme makeovers to these two beautiful cars.

Here's the results...

Great job everyone!


:dblthumb2:

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

For all my students reading this thread, I'm also posting these picture to my Facebook page. If you haven't already, please send me a friend request and I'll tag you in the pictures.


Mike Phillips Facebook Page

 

[fred129]

I attended the May 2016 Competition Ready Detailing class with Mike Philips. I’m an amateur detailer who details his own cars as a hobby. Both Mike and Andre were very helpful assisting me with my technique. Since I detail on a limited basis it was beneficial to have three days to hone my skills using a multitude of DA polishers and detailing products. Mike’s “learn by doing” method was in full effect during the three-day class.

Even simple, yet critical steps such as using detailing clay was covered in detail. Using a plastic baggie to feel impurities in the paint before and after claying was informative. Mike also provided opportunities to use Nanoskin wash mitts to compare and contrast results.

I have a Porter Cable 7424XP, but having the exposure to higher end polishers will help me to make an educated decision if/when I want to take the next step to upgrade my equipment. The Rupes, Flex, and Griot’s BOSS polishers are nice machines. I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to use them. The concentration on the three step process was of particular interest to me because I want to establish and keep a “Show Car” shine on my vehicles. We transformed a multitude of dull vehicles into eye-popping stunners. Mike selected an excellent cross-section of cars that kept the interest of the class members. Seeing the positive reaction of some of the owners when they received their vehicles validated the hard work the of the class members! All were impressed by the quality of the work.

I was exposed to ceramic coatings for the first time. The end result on the Mustang and Jaguar was astounding. Mike went step-by-step on the preparation of the vehicles (cleaning) which was critical before application of the coating. Mike was also methodical in his instruction on the application of the ceramic coating to ensure the desired end result. If I had not taken the class, I would have never considered a ceramic coating for my personal vehicles. Seeing the process first hand gives me the confidence to do so.

Engine bay detailing was also covered. Degreasing and cosmetic detailing methods are skills I can put to work immediately. Glass polishing and headlight restoration done the right way will come into use in the future.

The Showcar Garage was a great facility for use as a classroom and for hands-on work. Well-equipped, clean, and orderly.

I was also drawn to the class in order to work with an expert. Mike is certainly that.

So, if you’re a hobbyist who wants to detail his own vehicles with spectacular results, this is the class for you.

Fred

 

[ronkh57]

Congrats on a great accomplishment guys !!!

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

Next up... the 1962 Buick Invicta and the 1965 GTO!


The 1962 Buick Invicta belongs to my friend Richard Apsley. We used Richard's black 1940 Ford Coupe in my January class. Richard purchased this car at a Mecum Auction. The paint was completely filled with HOLOGRAMS! Besides that it's a very beautiful Invicta Convertible especially after the class removed all of the Holograms.

The other car is a 1965 Pontiac GTO that belongs to my friend Earl Dempsey who we all know as Earl the Plumber. The paint on the GTO was filled with swirls and scratches. We used this car for some videos we shot for the Mothers Wax Attack 2 polisher but when we shot those videos we only buffed out two small sections. So it was nice to have Earl bring the car back and the class successfully removed all the swirls and scratches and created a show car finish worthy of this Big Block Goat!

Earl the Plumber's mean and nasty 1965 Pontiac GTO


Here's the before pictures...

Here's the after pictures...

Richard's 1962 Buick Invicta Convertible!

Here's some shots of the holograms the day of the class. Notice all the other cool cars in the background? This was taken on the first day of the class, Friday, May 6th, 2016

Here's the results the class produced...

It was around noon and time for lunch so after moving the Buick and the GTO outside everyone had a chance to inspect their work results in FULL overhead sun. Of course everyone also was able to inspect the paint BEFORE buffing out these cars in full overhead sun so they all know and understand what amazing transformations took place at their class.

Cleber liking what he sees!

More to come.... a LOT more to come!

This class was over the top with really cool cars and super high caliber people!



:dblthumb2:

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

I attended the May 2016 Competition Ready Detailing class with Mike Phillips. I’m an amateur detailer who details his own cars as a hobby. Both Mike and Andre were very helpful assisting me with my technique. Since I detail on a limited basis it was beneficial to have three days to hone my skills using a multitude of DA polishers and detailing products. Mike’s “learn by doing” method was in full effect during the three-day class.

Even simple, yet critical steps such as using detailing clay was covered in detail. Using a plastic baggie to feel impurities in the paint before and after claying was informative. Mike also provided opportunities to use Nanoskin wash mitts to compare and contrast results.

I have a Porter Cable 7424XP, but having the exposure to higher end polishers will help me to make an educated decision if/when I want to take the next step to upgrade my equipment. The Rupes, Flex, and Griot’s BOSS polishers are nice machines. I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to use them. The concentration on the three step process was of particular interest to me because I want to establish and keep a “Show Car” shine on my vehicles. We transformed a multitude of dull vehicles into eye-popping stunners. Mike selected an excellent cross-section of cars that kept the interest of the class members. Seeing the positive reaction of some of the owners when they received their vehicles validated the hard work the of the class members! All were impressed by the quality of the work.

I was exposed to ceramic coatings for the first time. The end result on the Mustang and Jaguar was astounding. Mike went step-by-step on the preparation of the vehicles (cleaning) which was critical before application of the coating. Mike was also methodical in his instruction on the application of the ceramic coating to ensure the desired end result. If I had not taken the class, I would have never considered a ceramic coating for my personal vehicles. Seeing the process first hand gives me the confidence to do so.

Engine bay detailing was also covered. Degreasing and cosmetic detailing methods are skills I can put to work immediately. Glass polishing and headlight restoration done the right way will come into use in the future.

The ShowCar Garage was a great facility for use as a classroom and for hands-on work. Well-equipped, clean, and orderly.

I was also drawn to the class in order to work with an expert. Mike is certainly that.

So, if you’re a hobbyist who wants to detail his own vehicles with spectacular results, this is the class for you.

Fred

Hi Fred,

It was great having you here at Autogeek for one of our Competition Ready 3-day detailing classes. I also enjoyed working with you as we worked through all the cars, tools, techniques and procedures.

It was a fast-paced class and we covered a LOT of topics but you and everyone really put forth 100% effort and the results for ALL the cars reflected this... (no pun intended).


Thank you for joining the forum and sharing your experience. If there's ever anything I can do for you please don't hesitate to reach out to me.

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

Next...1973 Mercury Cougar and 1966 Ford Fairlane GT 390

These were the RUPES Car Detailing Training Cars. The entire RUPES Paint Polishing System was used to restore a show car finish to both cars.


Here's the guys that made the magic happen....

Before shots
Here's the only before shots I have of the Cougar, the paint was dull and tired looking and rough to the touch.

Here's the after pictures....

Before pictures of the 1966 Ford Fairlane GT 390

After pictures

Two more cars taken over the top by my May 2016 class!

 

[axel06]

had a blast... so much fun... great bunch of guys to hang with for the 3 days of detailing class... loved every minute... thank you AUTOGEEK !!!!! best detailing class by far !!!!! 12 cars 3 days holy crap !!!!

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

Feedback via an e-mail from Rich


Here's an e-mail I received from one of the students at the class. Rich is not on the forum and sent this to me via e-mail

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Good morning Mike,

I wanted to take a minute to thank you & your staff for the unbelievable job you did at my recently completed auto detailing class.

I’m being totally honest when I say you completely BLEW AWAY my expectations for this awesome detailing experience.

I learned so many new techniques & procedures that will not only improve my quality of work but also allows me to work smarter & more efficiently. I was especially pleased to get all of the hands on training with the numerous top name tools & products you provided for us. I will recommend this class to any/all car guys I come across weather you are detailing your own collection or detailing as a profession this class is a MUST.

Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge, expertise, passion & time with me.

I’m already planning my next visit to enhance my newly acquired detailing skills.


Take care my friend,

Rich

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~​

Thanks Rich it was a pleasure having you in the class and I appreciate traveling all the way from Blaine, Minnesota to Stuart, Florida.


Hope to see a picture of your 1941 Willys Coupe with the Blown Hemi Engine after you get her all polished up!




:dblthumb2:

 

[poyo150]

I really enjoy the classes. You get a lot of hands on experience with different products.

Everyone work hard on detailing the cars. We saw some amazing results. I enjoy the classes and I also enjoy working with all my classmates.

I had a lot of fun memories at Autogeek.

I would like to wish everyone on there journey to detailing. Keep it shinning guys.

Good luck all, from your classmate: Christian


Sent from my LG-H811 using Tapatalk

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

I really enjoy the classes. You get a lot of hands on experience with different products.

Everyone work hard on detailing the cars. We saw some amazing results. I enjoy the classes and I also enjoy working with all my classmates.

I had a lot of fun memories at Autogeek.

I would like to wish everyone on there journey to detailing. Keep it shinning guys.

Good luck all, from your classmate: Christian

Thanks for sharing Christian.

Everyone in the class said they would share thier feedback so I'm looking forward to reading more comments.

 

[fred129]

had a blast... so much fun... great bunch of guys to hang with for the 3 days of detailing class... loved every minute... thank you AUTOGEEK !!!!! best detailing class by far !!!!! 12 cars 3 days holy crap !!!!

A special shout-out to Axel. He helped me with my technique and was a big help around the Show Car Garage every day of the class. Thanks, man.

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

Re: Mike's Competition Ready detailing class

I just finished Mike's 3 day "Competition Ready Detailing Class" held at Autogeek. Yes, I've read plenty of forums, and I've viewed videos on proper use of tools and chemicals. But, if you're like me, I learn the BEST from reading, seeing, and DOING.

This class is spectacular.

There's very little "classroom" training. Instead, it's almost ALL hands on training. Mike and his team have you working on great cars that have their challenges. After they're fully detailed, you can't imagine the improvement...it's shocking!

Spend the $1,500, and learn how to properly take care of the investments you've made.

There's no reason to risk it by letting someone else put their hands on your cars.

Hi Scott,

Very well said about the class. Sometimes I worry these classes are too much hands-on but if anyone ever needs they can always take a chair and take a break.

I'm looking forward to posts about your future detailing projects here on the AGO forum!


Scott aka sss7912

:dblthumb2:

 

[sss7912]

Reading through all the posts has me thinking about another quick benefit about the class. Mike has you working with Griot's, Flex, Rupes, and rotary polishers. You also use compounds/polishes/waxes from McKee's, Pinnacle, Griot's, Wolfgang and more. Then there's the 10's of products used to thoroughly prepare the vehicles BEFORE compounding. Where else can you get ALL that hands-on experience with all those tools, chemicals, and expertise than this class? The answer is...only at Mike's Competition Ready Detailing class.

So, based upon all the hands-on experience in class, I just put in my order to Autogeek; an order that gets me exactly what I want and need. I couldn't have done that without the class!!

 

[axel06]

A special shout-out to Axel. He helped me with my technique and was a big help around the Show Car Garage every day of the class. Thanks, man.

your welcome fred i had a blast detailing all the cars with the whole class.. the show car garage well to me it is a special place all the tools, alll the class mates and the 12 cars just amazzing what the class turned out in 3 days. give your self a pat on the back for making the journey and wanting to experience the magic that is in mike Phillips Competition Ready Detailing Class.. wishing you all the best in your detailing and use the forum it a great place to keep learning. had a great time sharing the class with all the class mates. keep on shinning

 

[fred129]

I attended the May 2016 Competition Ready Detailing class with Mike Philips. I’m an amateur detailer who details his own cars as a hobby. Both Mike and Andre were very helpful assisting me with my technique. Since I detail on a limited basis it was beneficial to have three days to hone my skills using a multitude of DA polishers and detailing products. Mike’s “learn by doing” method was in full effect during the three-day class.

Even simple, yet critical steps such as using detailing clay was covered in detail. Using a plastic baggie to feel impurities in the paint before and after claying was informative. Mike also provided opportunities to use Nanoskin wash mitts to compare and contrast results.

I have a Porter Cable 7424XP, but having the exposure to higher end polishers will help me to make an educated decision if/when I want to take the next step to upgrade my equipment. The Rupes, Flex, and Griot’s BOSS polishers are nice machines. I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to use them. The concentration on the three step process was of particular interest to me because I want to establish and keep a “Show Car” shine on my vehicles. We transformed a multitude of dull vehicles into eye-popping stunners. Mike selected an excellent cross-section of cars that kept the interest of the class members. Seeing the positive reaction of some of the owners when they received their vehicles validated the hard work the of the class members! All were impressed by the quality of the work.

I was exposed to ceramic coatings for the first time. The end result on the Mustang and Jaguar was astounding. Mike went step-by-step on the preparation of the vehicles (cleaning) which was critical before application of the coating. Mike was also methodical in his instruction on the application of the ceramic coating to ensure the desired end result. If I had not taken the class, I would have never considered a ceramic coating for my personal vehicles. Seeing the process first hand gives me the confidence to do so.

Engine bay detailing was also covered. Degreasing and cosmetic detailing methods are skills I can put to work immediately. Glass polishing and headlight restoration done the right way will come into use in the future.

The Showcar Garage was a great facility for use as a classroom and for hands-on work. Well-equipped, clean, and orderly.

I was also drawn to the class in order to work with an expert. Mike is certainly that.

So, if you’re a hobbyist who wants to detail his own vehicles with spectacular results, this is the class for you.

Fred

The class started with the Studebaker and the Cadillac. I worked on the Cadillac because, well, there was so much of it! I could stake out a section and get to it. The photos attest to the fact that they both came out great. The Cadillac really popped after the team completed their work. Talk about starting with a bang? The AFTER photos show how these babies really stood out.

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

Just to chime in...


More pictures to come - just always so busy with so many other projecs...