Drying with a leaf blower?

[DShiznitz]

But, for those that don't have a leaf blower, the dedicated hose might be a good idea. Probably less than a $10 investment.

Charles

I have to respectfully disagree. :write

Any method that will blow dirt onto your car at high speed is asking for micro scratches and swirlmarks when you start to wax it. Even one tiny speck in a buffing pad can scratch a finish.

This is the equivalent of driving your car down the highway for 15 minutes at 80mph to dry it off and immediately pulling back in the driveway and waxing it.

-craig

 

[CharlesW]

I have to respectfully disagree. :write

Any method that will blow dirt onto your car at high speed is asking for micro scratches and swirlmarks when you start to wax it. Even one tiny speck in a buffing pad can scratch a finish.

This is the equivalent of driving your car down the highway for 15 minutes at 80mph to dry it off and immediately pulling back in the driveway and waxing it.

-craig

Good point.
So, I guess I'll save my $10 and just keep using my leaf blower.
Or maybe try the air compressor idea.

Charles

 

[DShiznitz]

Good point.
Or maybe try the air compressor idea.

Charles

I've never used an air compressor to dry paint etc. But if memory serves me correctly, I do believe that the air in most tank-type compressors contains a small amount of oil/compressor lubricant vapor due to blow-by in the compression pump. This might cause some waxing problems.

Of course this rationale probably wouldn't apply to the so called "oil-less" compressors. However, I think that most "oil-less" types of compressors are used tankless and are primarily used for direct inflation applications.

I know tank type compressors can utilize an in-line water vapor filter, but not sure if this filter inhibits oil vapor as well....

Just some speculation.
craig

 

[NYV6Coupe]

I've had no problems using a DEDICATED electric leaf blower, emphasis on "dedicated".

I bought one at Wal-Mart last year for about $24 & it's used for drying lug nut holes, door jambs, and other nooks & crannies hanging on to a few drops of water.

Anything used for vacuuming, like a shop vac hose or a leaf blower that does duty as a leaf mulcher, should be avoided 'cause it will send crap & crud crashing into your paint at 150+ mph .... no thanks.

 

[lucky6025]

Here is a trick that can be used by those using shop vac. Take one of the tubes used for doing floor and and get piece of cheesecloth and duct tape it to the end, thus catching any particles that come from the vac/hose. And NO you can't blow your PAINT off at 150mph wind, if you can finish was not on there properly and would have come off anyway. As for compressor most will either have some water or even oil that can come from hose so beware of that.As for leaf blowers in fact any blower make sure ground/garage floor is very wet first this prevents any dust from comming up and getting on finish before moving on. Painters will do this before painting soak floor. Just something for thought.I don't worry about neighbors as most of them i do their cars so will never make fun of what I use and for the others look at their vehicles and look at yours, Now who gets to laugh.