High volume detailers, inside.

[89gt-stanger]

Are there any new high volume products that have come out, lately? What are you higher volume detailers using? I have been using ONR for washing, D151 Paint Reconditioning cream for waxing (and also cleans the paint up quite a bit). I also have been using Woolite 15:1 for interiors, Folex for non-high end carpets. I am standing by Stoners for windows. If there is any wood pieces on the interior, I love to apply PB blue, I looks amazing.



One thing, however, I have never been able to decide on is tire protection. Most of my customers do not want a greasy tire, rather a clean black one. Any product suggestions? Also, if you have any tricks of the trade you are willing to share, post em up.



Thank you for any input, ideas, and as always, constructive criticism is welcome!

 

[Dan]

Have you tried Opti-bond? Goes on fast and makes tires very black. Decent durability and doesn't leave a greasy mess for next time.

 

[David Fermani]

Can you explain the exact type of "high volume" operation you're working with?



I'm not quite sure how ONR would fit seeing that all the one's I know of rely heavily on powerwashing engines, door jambs and wheelwells?



Woolite is ok,but there's much better products such as dedicated APC's and shampoos that are less expensive.



What's the rationale for sealing interior trim pieces?



You might also want to look into a concentrated glass cleaner as well.



I suggest looking into M105/205, Optimum's sprayable compound/polishes and watch out for Meg's new Microfiber buffing system coming out as it may offer a huge value.



Check out 3D's Ultra Tire Protectant. Very versatile dressing.

 

[MichaelM]

I'm not quite sure how ONR would fit seeing that all the one's I know of rely heavily on powerwashing engines, door jambs and wheelwells?

You can still use ONR after you powerwash and pre-scrub the rough areas of the vehicle to save time on the wash step.



OP - As far as things like glass cleaner and APC's go you should definitely look into a local bulk chemical supplier. You won't find much difference in performance between any boutique brand glass cleaner and APC vs a bulk supplier. My supplier's APC costs $50/5gal which you can cut 10:1. The glass cleaner they supply me costs $10/gal which you can also cut 10:1. That's a lot of glass cleaner for $10.



As far as the tire dressings go try to find a water based product as those can yield a matte look easier then a silicone based product can.

 

[Alexshimshimhae]

I'm actually curious as to what products come out of the woodwork--I was actually starting to look into bulk high volume stuff... so this should come in handy =]

 

[David Fermani]

You can still use ONR after you powerwash and pre-scrub the rough areas of the vehicle to save time on the wash step.

Good point. I never really considered that as an option. Sounds interesting.

Seems like it would take more time to ONR>Dry>Clay instead of just Rinse>Hand Wash>Rinse>Clay because there isn't a need to dry? Have you ever compared the two in this setting? I wonder if any Auctions use a waterless wash?

 

[AeroCleanse]

Have you tried Opti-bond? Goes on fast and makes tires very black. Decent durability and doesn't leave a greasy mess for next time.

Not been impressed with Opti-Bond. Still have 1/2 a bottle I never used.

 

[MichaelM]

Seems like it would take more time to ONR>Dry>Clay instead of just Rinse>Hand Wash>Rinse>Clay because there isn't a need to dry?

You'll still have to dry the vehicle at some point so you should consider the difference in dry time between both methods. In my shop, anytime we use a hose or powerwasher we'll Squeegee>blow dry>towel dry, were as if we use the rinseless we only have to towel dry. Also, as long as your wash is thorough, you can ONR>clay(using the ONR on the vehicle as lube)>dry, to save a lap around the vehicle.

Have you ever compared the two in this setting?

Everyday, more or less. We aren't volume based but a large majority of our services are billed at a package price, not hourly, so we are constantly striving to work more efficiently while delivering the same if not better results.

I wonder if any Auctions use a waterless wash?

I would be surprised. I am close to one of Manheim's auction sites and I know they don't use waterless/rinseless there. I don't believe my local bulk company even has this type of product.

 

[David Fermani]

You'll still have to dry the vehicle at some point so you should consider the difference in dry time between both methods. In my shop, anytime we use a hose or powerwasher we'll Squeegee>blow dry>towel dry, were as if we use the rinseless we only have to towel dry. Also, as long as your wash is thorough, you can ONR>clay(using the ONR on the vehicle as lube)>dry, to save a lap around the vehicle.

Actually, we didn't dry cars. Wasn't needed unless it was just a wash/interior (for a Body Shop per se). Any spotting was removed while buffing or with final cleaning. I'm sure this method would be a hugh time saver for spiffs, recleans, cars that were cleaned at the auction, etc...

I would be surprised. I am close to one of Manheim's auction sites and I know they don't use waterless/rinseless there. I don't believe my local bulk company even has this type of product.

Gotcha and you're probably right. Things may start changing though so we'll see if they catch on.