Mobile Detailers...What vac do you use?

[ThumperAC]

What vacuum do you mobile detailers use? I am looking at a shopvac(or the HD brand). Specifically, a 16 gal, 5 hp model. Do you think that this is too big/too small, thanks for any input.

 

[mrjwhit]

I use a 6 gal Ridgid and it handles business. Very good.

 

[imported_Intel486]

9 Gal Ridgid

 

[jimmybuffit]

I think the 16 gallon is overkill... you really don't care about volume - 5 gal wil be enough. You should address water lift (80' is good, 120' is killer) but Shopvac and others don't publish their numbers, relying instead on confusing horsepower ratings...



If you have an extra dime, checkout the Fein vacs at Coastal Tool.



Jim

 

[JimS]

I take the Vac n Blow with me everywhere. Easily small enough to have available all the time, has the blower option to help dry the truck and blow water out of the mirrors etc. I believe the water lift is 90' or 92'. I'm sold on mine.

 

[Scottwax]

I've got a Shop Vac-the quiet one, I forget the exact name, but it is rated at 7 amps. Strong enough to pick up floor mats and small enough to fit in my trunk with room to spare.

 

[Detailing NY]

16 gallon wetdry

 

[imported_edschwab1]

Scott,

How often do you change out the paper filter bags? If I remeber correctly you the all-around. I am considering the 8 amp version from Amazon.



Eric

 

[Scottwax]

Scott,

How often do you change out the paper filter bags? If I remeber correctly you the all-around. I am considering the 8 amp version from Amazon.



Eric

I change them out about once a month. If you have the paper filter in place when you use it to vacuum up liquid, it pretty much ruins it, so make sure you remove it before using it as a wet vac.

 

[imported_rookie]

Jimmy BUffet,

I think the 16 gallon is overkill... you really don't care about volume - 5 gal wil be enough. You should address water lift (80' is good, 120' is killer) but Shopvac and others don't publish their numbers, relying instead on confusing horsepower ratings...

what Vac do you know of that has 120' lift?



The one you suggested has 90' and 99'.

 

[METICULOUSMAN]

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?prodid=10028816&whse=BC&topnav=&cat=

 

[Woob]

Wow thats alot of Amps for a small machine. Now would it beat the Rigid 5Gal 4HP?

 

[imported_Terry]

12 gallon shop-vac 5.5......It's bulky but the blower is a real plus to dry with.:up

 

[METICULOUSMAN]

I love my little AllAround 3 gal. 4.5 hp. Never tried the others mentioned but I have no complaints with this unit.

 

[Scottwax]

BTW, I now have a 3 hp Craftsman, the rectangular one. It really sucks and I mean that in a good way. It also converts to a blower.

 

[imported_mirrorfinishman]

I have been using the Sears Craftsman 3 gal. Wet-Dry Car Vac. It's got plenty of power and is compact and lightweight. Very good value for only $69.99



http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/prod...gcemgdffmdflh.0&vertical=TOOL&pid=00917768000

 

[scottlee]

hope i am not jacking this thread, but since were are talking vacs i ran across this site posted at megs site the other day, some interesting accessories for vacs here

http://www.mrnozzle.com

 

[imported_rookie]

Still am wondering what if any have 120' lift?

 

[ZaneO]

Still am wondering what if any have 120' lift?

You really have to start doing some of your own research.



Here's the best I could find in less than 2 minutes.



http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/t...avianhealth/002-8409691-1532821?v=glance&s=hi

 

[Scottwax]

I have been using the Sears Craftsman 3 gal. Wet-Dry Car Vac. It's got plenty of power and is compact and lightweight. Very good value for only $69.99



http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/prod...gcemgdffmdflh.0&vertical=TOOL&pid=00917768000

Frank-I've got the same vac, except mine is light grey. Excellent value and it holds up well. Best of all is the compact size.