Reinvesting into your business.

[RonAlv]

My question has probably been asked many times before, so let me ask this again...
I am now starting to generate income from part time detailing, and I would like to expand some on my equipment. From the money I am making, I would like to take maybe 50 percent of the income and invest into items that I am lacking.
I am currently looking into an electric pressure washer, but reading mixed reviews on them, so I am not sure on that one just yet. I detail out of my home garage, and with a gas powered pw, it takes up a little room. I currently wash with water hose and 2 bucket method.
Also looking to add maybe a GG-3 into my equipment to get into tighter area's, or do you think converting over to the 5.5 pads would be better suited?
What everyday equipment do some of you more experienced detailer's use that is a must have?

Here is my list...

33 Gallon 150 psi Air Compressor.
GG-6 Polisher.
Shop Vac.
Various types of waxes, sealant, and other cleaning and AIO products.
Lots of MF towls.

 

[Coopers ST]

I just ordered a steamer for my part time business. Otherwise be ready when there is a good sale and stock up on gallon sizes.

 

[chet31]

Reinvesting in your business is usually a good move. Anything that makes you faster or better is worthwhile. I don't think you need a huge variety of products. Find one or two sealants you like, you don't need a dozen different kinds. Same with polishes, trim dressings, etc. Good luck.

 

[SKorch630]

Reinvesting in your business is usually a good move.

Reinvesting into your business is ALWAYS a good move. Don't stop there though. Invest in YOURSELF. Continue to learn, continue to read, and continue to get experience. Shoot me a PM and I'll get you the names of some really great books that have helped me make my push in my businesses.

Side note, I currently use an electric pressure washer, and have yet to have any issues. It's gone through countless vehicles, and still holds strong. I also have a gas one, but I got tired of filling it, and listening to the loud, obnoxious sound.

 

[Eldorado2k]

A nice big comfortable bucket hat to prevent you from getting sunburned.
Quality bottles & sprayers. Because working with inferior sprayers is an unnecessary struggle.
Knee pads. Because there will be times when you will be ready to die after a long days work, and having a good set of knee pads could've made a huge difference.
Quality detail bags/totes/boxes, or whatever suits you best.. Just make sure it works to help you stay organized. Because the more stuff you accumulate, the more you'll be looking for that 1 thing.. Unless you already know where it's at.
Headbands. To keep the sweat out your eyes..

 

[Calendyr]

The way I do it is I make small purchases for my business as needed (spray bottles, products, etc). When I get my tax return every year is when I make the big purchases like expensive equipment, truck upgrades, etc. For the last 3 years my tax returns have been around 4K each year. Most of it is put back in the business. The first year I used it to purchase a used van. The second year I had the van re-painted. The third year I had it wrapped with my logo and all that.

In terms of equipment, try to get the inexpensive items first. Having inexpensive tools to help you will be better than having 1 expensive one in most cases.

If you don't have a pressure washer, I would definatelly start with that. You don't need to go out and purchase the expensive ones either. My first pressure washer was purchased at Walmart for 40$. I was on special at half price. A 1700 PSI electric unit that came with a foam bottle. It lasted 3 years. Best 40$ I ever spent.

If you don't have a small polisher for tight spots there are 2 things you can do: 1) Get the GG 3" like you mentioned or get a 3 inch backplate for a drill. You can get these backplates in headlight restoration kits or I believe AGO sell them on their own too.

A steamer can be very handy. I don't use mine often but sometimes it's the only thing that will work for some things. I got mine for 100$. I hold about a cup of water. Bigger units will be more expensive.

One Item I would not like to live without is my Master Blaster Sidekick. That thing is amazing. I use it to blow off leaves and debris from under the hood. in exterior vents, trunk lid, etc. Super useful to blow out crevices after washing. Same for wheels. It's not a must at first but as soon as you have a little bit of spare money, this is one item you will love.

Not sure what gear you already have but a good wet/dry vacuum is a must if you want to do interiors.

At first you can get a Little Green Machine (Bisell) instead of a hot water extractor. It will cost you less than 100$ and it does a decent job. In fact I still use mine, I have having a really hard time finding to will to spend 2K on a hot water extractor.

 

[clone of the stig]

...Also looking to add maybe a GG-3 into my equipment to get into tighter area's, or do you think converting over to the 5.5 pads would be better suited?

There is no AIO polisher that will get you everywhere in every instance. A 3" will just go places a 5.5" pad won't. The right tool for the job will make your life easier. That being said...

Do not waste your money on a GG-3. It's underpowered and is nothing but a hassle. I'd opt for either a PC 7424 with a 3" backing plate, or save up and get the Rupes LHR 75E. Yes, the Rupes is thrice the price. But both of these options are properly powered for the job unlike the Griots. :buffing: