PHEA INVITE: LowiePete's Detailing Meet, Saturday 23rd Sept.
Discussion
Good afternoon everyone,
Earlier in the year, our very own LowiePete organised a fantastic Detailing Day, where great fun was had learning about detailing, attempting new techniques and discovering new products.
Well, he is organising a second detailing day, and PH is invited to join. While it isn't on the Calendar, it is such a fantastic day out one I can highly recommend.
Darren
Earlier in the year, our very own LowiePete organised a fantastic Detailing Day, where great fun was had learning about detailing, attempting new techniques and discovering new products.
Well, he is organising a second detailing day, and PH is invited to join. While it isn't on the Calendar, it is such a fantastic day out one I can highly recommend.
Over to the good man himself for a few words said:
Hello Folks,
The 2nd of the 2017 Lowiepete Detailing Days is planned for Saturday 23rd September.
The meeting venue is: ]The Fighting Cocks PH in Lowestoft, NR33 0NA
The meeting time will be 09:30 for 10:00hrs. Don't be late or you will miss the prompt
departure.
Instead of the group coming to my home, we will transfer to a local industrial unit. What
this means is that the meet is no longer weather dependent and I can increase the limit
of attendees from 10 to at least 15. If there are enough experienced detailers to support
it, that limit could be extended to 20. Please indicate this with (XP) as you register.
I'm hoping that the Detailing Studio almost next door to the unit we'll be working from
will be open. What this means is that alongside the basic (by hand) demos, there'll be
an opportunity to use machines also.
We'll be providing hot drinks, but you will need to bring your own packed lunch. We'll not
be retiring to the local pub as hitherto. There is an option of a lunch delivery service but
this will need a minimum of 5 purchasers. If this interests you, please place (F) behind
your name.
The invitation to this meet is also to members of other Forums, so preference will be given
to those who register first, should the limits be reached.
As ever I will be attempting to ensure that no-one goes away empty-handed, so I'm
hoping to assemble a decent goodie-bag for everyone to take home.
Please register by adding your name here...
Show (DW)(PH)(RT) for Forum source.
Show (XP) for experienced and willing to be a guide, and (F) if you'd like a delivered lunch
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - chapman88 (DW) (XP)
3:
4:
5:
6:
7:
8:
9:
10:
Regards,
Steve
So if you'd like to head along, please sign up here. Please direct any questions to this thread so LowiePete can answer them here The 2nd of the 2017 Lowiepete Detailing Days is planned for Saturday 23rd September.
The meeting venue is: ]The Fighting Cocks PH in Lowestoft, NR33 0NA
The meeting time will be 09:30 for 10:00hrs. Don't be late or you will miss the prompt
departure.
Instead of the group coming to my home, we will transfer to a local industrial unit. What
this means is that the meet is no longer weather dependent and I can increase the limit
of attendees from 10 to at least 15. If there are enough experienced detailers to support
it, that limit could be extended to 20. Please indicate this with (XP) as you register.
I'm hoping that the Detailing Studio almost next door to the unit we'll be working from
will be open. What this means is that alongside the basic (by hand) demos, there'll be
an opportunity to use machines also.
We'll be providing hot drinks, but you will need to bring your own packed lunch. We'll not
be retiring to the local pub as hitherto. There is an option of a lunch delivery service but
this will need a minimum of 5 purchasers. If this interests you, please place (F) behind
your name.
The invitation to this meet is also to members of other Forums, so preference will be given
to those who register first, should the limits be reached.
As ever I will be attempting to ensure that no-one goes away empty-handed, so I'm
hoping to assemble a decent goodie-bag for everyone to take home.
Please register by adding your name here...
Show (DW)(PH)(RT) for Forum source.
Show (XP) for experienced and willing to be a guide, and (F) if you'd like a delivered lunch
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - chapman88 (DW) (XP)
3:
4:
5:
6:
7:
8:
9:
10:
Regards,
Steve
Darren
Hello Folks,
Thanks for your kind words Darren. For anyone who doesn't believe him...
Previous Meet in Pictures
Here's a set of annotated pictures taken by Darren on the last Detailing Day back in April.
Darren will be missing this one so I'm on the lookout for another photographer. (You don't need to be on FB)
Register Your Interest
Please register by adding your name here...
Show (DW)(PH)(RT) for Forum source.
Show (XP) for experienced and willing to be a guide, and (F) if you'd like a delivered lunch
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - dchapman88 (DW) (XP)
3: DLGWRX02 (DW)
4: Minidaveo (DW)
5: Jordan - kartman (DW) (XP)
6:
7:
8:
9:
10:
I'll be updating this topic fairly regularly with news of plans for the day and names of
attendees. We may need a car or two to work on, depending upon whose coming along.
Watch this space! Can I suggest you subscribe to this thread.
Regards,
Steve
Thanks for your kind words Darren. For anyone who doesn't believe him...
Previous Meet in Pictures
Here's a set of annotated pictures taken by Darren on the last Detailing Day back in April.
Darren will be missing this one so I'm on the lookout for another photographer. (You don't need to be on FB)
Register Your Interest
Please register by adding your name here...
Show (DW)(PH)(RT) for Forum source.
Show (XP) for experienced and willing to be a guide, and (F) if you'd like a delivered lunch
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - dchapman88 (DW) (XP)
3: DLGWRX02 (DW)
4: Minidaveo (DW)
5: Jordan - kartman (DW) (XP)
6:
7:
8:
9:
10:
I'll be updating this topic fairly regularly with news of plans for the day and names of
attendees. We may need a car or two to work on, depending upon whose coming along.
Watch this space! Can I suggest you subscribe to this thread.
Regards,
Steve
Hi Steve,
I'd like to come along.
Thanks.
Nick
Please register by adding your name here...
Show (DW)(PH)(RT) for Forum source.
Show (XP) for experienced and willing to be a guide, and (F) if you'd like a delivered lunch
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - dchapman88 (DW) (XP)
3: DLGWRX02 (DW)
4: Minidaveo (DW)
5: Jordan - kartman (DW) (XP)
6: Nick (PH)
7:
8:
9:
10:
Please register by adding your name here...
Show (DW)(PH)(RT) for Forum source.
Show (XP) for experienced and willing to be a guide, and (F) if you'd like a delivered lunch
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - dchapman88 (DW) (XP)
3: DLGWRX02 (DW)
4: Minidaveo (DW)
5: Jordan - kartman (DW) (XP)
6: Nick (PH)
7: Neil - Njs71 (DW)
8:
9:
10:
Hello Folks,
It's worth me mentioning that Darren & Jordan in this list are both
pretty competent with machines, so they'll be doing demos and
providing guidance to those wanting some basic tuition. Also, we
have quite a Q car to work on, being black and a tad neglected,
so we have quite a challenge on our hands to return it in a tad
shinier condition...
Regards,
Steve
It's worth me mentioning that Darren & Jordan in this list are both
pretty competent with machines, so they'll be doing demos and
providing guidance to those wanting some basic tuition. Also, we
have quite a Q car to work on, being black and a tad neglected,
so we have quite a challenge on our hands to return it in a tad
shinier condition...
Regards,
Steve
Jordan aka kartman on DW said:
Have also been made aware of a solid white Renault 19 that will be on site in various stages of prep that we can tackle too. I have some old school megs no 7 that is designed for single stage paints. It has oils to feed the paint as it can often go dry and chalky, got on really well with it on my mk2 golf which i took from pink to red so I shall bring it along too
Jordan aka kartman on DW said:
Bumping this up to see if any others wish to join, or if any people already down as attending have any questions of stuff they would like to learn more about/see demoed. Me and Darren will both be bringing our DA's with lots of different pads and compounds to try out. What we currently propose is:
1. Paint depth gauge demo (before and after cutting, showing how much clear is removed)
2. A demo of Cut vs Fill
3. Comparison of glaze/filling by hand and machine
4. Comparisons of different pads and compounds
Sure I have missed things but we are flexible and have lots of different products and pads between us so can demo whatever people wish to learn really
1. Paint depth gauge demo (before and after cutting, showing how much clear is removed)
2. A demo of Cut vs Fill
3. Comparison of glaze/filling by hand and machine
4. Comparisons of different pads and compounds
Sure I have missed things but we are flexible and have lots of different products and pads between us so can demo whatever people wish to learn really
Safety Notice - PPE Requirements
Back in the day, the thought of wearing anything special for detailing was an
anathema, after all, the very best waxes were always best applied by hand,
literally! How the World has changed?
While the majority of this meet will be around benign potions and methods,
if we are to do more than just talk about what are essentially "professional"
practices, then we do need everyone to stay safe. By attending this event it
is incumbent upon you to not put yourself or anyone else at risk. You _will_
need to bring the following items with you, and you'll be required to wear
them when instructed, else stay well clear of that work area until that demo
is concluded.
Please bring...
favourite after-shave, so old clothing or even an apron to put over your knees
while we're cleaning wheels might be a good plan.
I do want everyone to enjoy their day. We're there to share experiences with
each other, not to test ambulance response times. Your collaboration is much
appreciated. Thanks.
Regards,
Steve
Back in the day, the thought of wearing anything special for detailing was an
anathema, after all, the very best waxes were always best applied by hand,
literally! How the World has changed?
While the majority of this meet will be around benign potions and methods,
if we are to do more than just talk about what are essentially "professional"
practices, then we do need everyone to stay safe. By attending this event it
is incumbent upon you to not put yourself or anyone else at risk. You _will_
need to bring the following items with you, and you'll be required to wear
them when instructed, else stay well clear of that work area until that demo
is concluded.
Please bring...
- protective eyewear
- nitrile gloves (more than one pair)
- a face mask to FFP3 standards (disposable is fine)
favourite after-shave, so old clothing or even an apron to put over your knees
while we're cleaning wheels might be a good plan.
I do want everyone to enjoy their day. We're there to share experiences with
each other, not to test ambulance response times. Your collaboration is much
appreciated. Thanks.
Regards,
Steve
Edited by LowiePete on Sunday 17th September 16:18
Helpers Needed
Hello Folks,
I'm looking for a couple or three of helpers on the day, please.
One to take photographs throughout the day for sharing here and other forums.
You don't need to be on any social media.
Another to take the lady owner of our Q car home - not very far from the pub
car park - and to collect her for the reveal at around 16:00. Early arrival in the
morning would be a great help, so you can be back at the meet before it starts.
I may need someone to do the meet and greet at the pub. You'll be giving
directions to the meet venue and leading the last ones to arrive.
For everyone, the meeting point is the pub from 9:30 until 10:00hrs, but the
sooner you arrive, the sooner we can properly begin. You won't be kept
hanging around until the 10:00hrs deadline.
The list closes at 18:00hrs on Friday 22nd September. If your name is not on
the list, please do not turn up ad-hoc on the day. It looks like the weather-
gods are setting fair for the day as well, so, here's looking forward to another
successful meet.
The List as at 20 September
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - dchapman88 (DW) (XP)
3: Minidaveo (DW)
4: Jordan - kartman (DW) (XP)
5: Nick (PH)
6: Neil - Njs71 (DW)
7: Hotrat (PH)
8:
9:
10:
11:
12:
13:
14:
15:
Regards,
Steve
Hello Folks,
I'm looking for a couple or three of helpers on the day, please.
One to take photographs throughout the day for sharing here and other forums.
You don't need to be on any social media.
Another to take the lady owner of our Q car home - not very far from the pub
car park - and to collect her for the reveal at around 16:00. Early arrival in the
morning would be a great help, so you can be back at the meet before it starts.
I may need someone to do the meet and greet at the pub. You'll be giving
directions to the meet venue and leading the last ones to arrive.
For everyone, the meeting point is the pub from 9:30 until 10:00hrs, but the
sooner you arrive, the sooner we can properly begin. You won't be kept
hanging around until the 10:00hrs deadline.
The list closes at 18:00hrs on Friday 22nd September. If your name is not on
the list, please do not turn up ad-hoc on the day. It looks like the weather-
gods are setting fair for the day as well, so, here's looking forward to another
successful meet.
The List as at 20 September
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - dchapman88 (DW) (XP)
3: Minidaveo (DW)
4: Jordan - kartman (DW) (XP)
5: Nick (PH)
6: Neil - Njs71 (DW)
7: Hotrat (PH)
8:
9:
10:
11:
12:
13:
14:
15:
Regards,
Steve
Edited by LowiePete on Monday 18th September 15:28
Edited by LowiePete on Wednesday 20th September 12:23
Saturday's Prize Draw
in time... As ever, I'll try to ensure that no-one goes home empty handed;
it's good to be finally supported by OPT so everyone gets a 4oz bottle.
Regards,
Steve
- Bucket & guard with quality SP Noodle Mitt and shampoo sachets
- Serious Performance QD Cleaner Concentrate
- A Clay Cloth
- Serious Performance Show Detailer
- 2 off CarPro Essence
- 12oz of ONR, to make the take-away up to an American pint[/list]
in time... As ever, I'll try to ensure that no-one goes home empty handed;
it's good to be finally supported by OPT so everyone gets a 4oz bottle.
Regards,
Steve
LowiePete said:
Helpers Needed
Hello Folks,
I'm looking for a couple or three of helpers on the day, please.
One to take photographs throughout the day for sharing here and other forums.
You don't need to be on any social media.
Another to take the lady owner of our Q car home - not very far from the pub
car park - and to collect her for the reveal at around 16:00. Early arrival in the
morning would be a great help, so you can be back at the meet before it starts.
I may need someone to do the meet and greet at the pub. You'll be giving
directions to the meet venue and leading the last ones to arrive.
For everyone, the meeting point is the pub from 9:30 until 10:00hrs, but the
sooner you arrive, the sooner we can properly begin. You won't be kept
hanging around until the 10:00hrs deadline.
The list closes at 18:00hrs on Friday 22nd September. If your name is not on
the list, please do not turn up ad-hoc on the day. It looks like the weather-
gods are setting fair for the day as well, so, here's looking forward to another
successful meet.
The List as at 20 September
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - dchapman88 (DW) (XP)
3: Minidaveo (DW)
4: Jordan - kartman (DW) (XP)
5: Nick (PH)
6: Neil - Njs71 (DW)
7: Hotrat (PH)
8: Jack (PH)
9:
10:
11:
12:
13:
14:
15:
Regards,
Steve
Hello Folks,
I'm looking for a couple or three of helpers on the day, please.
One to take photographs throughout the day for sharing here and other forums.
You don't need to be on any social media.
Another to take the lady owner of our Q car home - not very far from the pub
car park - and to collect her for the reveal at around 16:00. Early arrival in the
morning would be a great help, so you can be back at the meet before it starts.
I may need someone to do the meet and greet at the pub. You'll be giving
directions to the meet venue and leading the last ones to arrive.
For everyone, the meeting point is the pub from 9:30 until 10:00hrs, but the
sooner you arrive, the sooner we can properly begin. You won't be kept
hanging around until the 10:00hrs deadline.
The list closes at 18:00hrs on Friday 22nd September. If your name is not on
the list, please do not turn up ad-hoc on the day. It looks like the weather-
gods are setting fair for the day as well, so, here's looking forward to another
successful meet.
The List as at 20 September
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - dchapman88 (DW) (XP)
3: Minidaveo (DW)
4: Jordan - kartman (DW) (XP)
5: Nick (PH)
6: Neil - Njs71 (DW)
7: Hotrat (PH)
8: Jack (PH)
9:
10:
11:
12:
13:
14:
15:
Regards,
Steve
Edited by LowiePete on Monday 18th September 15:28
Edited by LowiePete on Wednesday 20th September 12:23
The List @ 18:00 on 22nd Sept
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - dchapman88 (DW) (XP)
3: Minidaveo (DW)
4: Jordan - kartman (DW) (XP)
5: Nick (PH)
6: Neil - Njs71 (DW)
7: Hotrat (PH)
8: Jack - Zed44 (PH)
The list is now closed. Here's looking forward to welcoming everyone to an
eventful and memorable day...
Regards,
Steve
Host: Steve - Lowiepete (XP)
1: Andy (PH)
2: Darren - dchapman88 (DW) (XP)
3: Minidaveo (DW)
4: Jordan - kartman (DW) (XP)
5: Nick (PH)
6: Neil - Njs71 (DW)
7: Hotrat (PH)
8: Jack - Zed44 (PH)
The list is now closed. Here's looking forward to welcoming everyone to an
eventful and memorable day...
Regards,
Steve
Edited by LowiePete on Friday 22 September 19:42
A big thank you to Steve for arranging this today, it was very informative, good fun and I am really looking forward to trying out my free goodies.
Some really good products and so much more useful to see them used in a real scenario rather than through a video.
Thanks to Jordan and Darren for helping out too, as DW members they also know their stuff and it was nice to have a mix of PH and DW at the same time to pass on some experience.
Learnt a lot today, no excuses from me to turn up in a grubby car from now on! Thanks again Steve.
Hello Folks,
Oh, my goodness gracious me! What a bunch of tired and lazy pe... oh no,
hang on, I've got that wrong. Very wrong! If Darren, Jordan or myself had
been given the task of nominating yesterday's attendees, we'd have been
very hard pressed to find keener or openly enthusiastic people. As organiser,
the one fret that I have ahead of these meets is whether or not the group
will gel.
I need not have fretted, because we were faced with a car that no-one would
have taken a second glance at and no-one minded in the least. All we saw and
felt was paint that was tired in more than just a few places and everyone rose
to the challenge of putting it right.
I'd like to thank Darren and Jordan for their support yesterday. To get demos
of the Glare system and to be able to graphically show the differences twixt
fill and cut was something they cooked-up between them which really got
our audience involved. Of course, with one side working by hand, and the
other by machine, there was plenty of banter. My only failure was in properly
persuading the other side on the benefits of rinseless / waterless washing in
the Winter, but that little war will rage on, and on...
Thank you to everyone who came along yesterday. If anyone doubted the
sheer enjoyment of detailing as a hobby previously, those doubts would have
well and truly buried. We even had the weather on our side. I'd also like to
thank Adey, the unit's owner for the use of such a wonderful facility. Local
guys in Lowie, stay in touch because I'd like to return the favour...
The plaudits from yesterday belong the guys who came along, not really
knowing what to expect, being taken way out of their comfort zones and
completing their tasks with alacrity! Thanks.
Regards,
Steve
Oh, my goodness gracious me! What a bunch of tired and lazy pe... oh no,
hang on, I've got that wrong. Very wrong! If Darren, Jordan or myself had
been given the task of nominating yesterday's attendees, we'd have been
very hard pressed to find keener or openly enthusiastic people. As organiser,
the one fret that I have ahead of these meets is whether or not the group
will gel.
I need not have fretted, because we were faced with a car that no-one would
have taken a second glance at and no-one minded in the least. All we saw and
felt was paint that was tired in more than just a few places and everyone rose
to the challenge of putting it right.
I'd like to thank Darren and Jordan for their support yesterday. To get demos
of the Glare system and to be able to graphically show the differences twixt
fill and cut was something they cooked-up between them which really got
our audience involved. Of course, with one side working by hand, and the
other by machine, there was plenty of banter. My only failure was in properly
persuading the other side on the benefits of rinseless / waterless washing in
the Winter, but that little war will rage on, and on...
Thank you to everyone who came along yesterday. If anyone doubted the
sheer enjoyment of detailing as a hobby previously, those doubts would have
well and truly buried. We even had the weather on our side. I'd also like to
thank Adey, the unit's owner for the use of such a wonderful facility. Local
guys in Lowie, stay in touch because I'd like to return the favour...
The plaudits from yesterday belong the guys who came along, not really
knowing what to expect, being taken way out of their comfort zones and
completing their tasks with alacrity! Thanks.
Regards,
Steve
dchapman88 on DW said:
I can't say word for word what was said by the owner due to the swear filter, but he was extremely happy with the results, couldn't believe that we'd managed to get it so clean.
He'd even forgotten the paint was metallic
Well done guys! He'd even forgotten the paint was metallic
BTW, in future we'll arrange reveals exclusively at the unit.
Regards,
Steve
Njs71 on DW said:
Memories of quite a rewarding day. Thanks guys!Regards,
Steve
How the Detailing Day Went... (Part 1)
My apologies about the codes - they work everywhere else
Hello Folks,
[color="#000077"]
[COLOR="Blue"]Introduction[/COLOR]
Below is a bit of a resumé of the potions and their techniques we used on the
day. Our Q car was a 2009 Vauxhall Astra Estate with paint crying out for a
bit of TLC. After the short welcome speech, I made sure that no-one went
home without speaking to a soul. What really happened was that the whole
group gelled together almost instantly. It was soon clear that the day was
going to be quite special.
[COLOR="blue"]A Very Basic Tool[/COLOR]
After the "safety briefing" I then began with the most basic tool in anyone's
armoury; the microfibre cloth. Passing it around and asking about attitude
and techniques quite often shows how much we take them for granted.
It's a bit of a cheat because it helps the group leaders to gauge the level of
expertise without having to ask lots of maybe embarrassing questions. It's a
strange thing that most often the microfibre cloth is only seen as a "bit of a
posh duster". By the end of the day, that view will change, markedly!
[COLOR="blue"]The Wheels & Decon[/COLOR]
The first part of tackling the car was to clean and decon the wheels. Sadly,
there are no photographs of this, but Bilberry and BH Auto Wheel were given
the task, with some success. That being said, there wasn't a huge reaction to
the Auto Wheel, so rinsing-off was a breeze.
[COLOR="blue"]The Washing Process - Direct Comparison[/COLOR]
The whole day works by everyone being given a full hands-on experience,
with proper explanations for both approach and expectation of the result.
[COLOR="DarkRed"]Darren explaining the preparations for the 2-Bucket Method (2BM) [/COLOR]
Of course, with this meet having a "Winter Prep" influence, the less-water
approach can become an attractive alternative.
[COLOR="DarkRed"]Here I am, priming my ONR spray bottle[/COLOR]
I think the biggest surprise to the gathering, so far, was the entirely gentle
approach and just how important the manipulation of the MF cloth is in
avoiding creating swirls. My mentioning that: It's all in the wrist-action,
always raises a titter or two.
[COLOR="darkred"]Here's Nick having a go and finding it rewarding[/COLOR]
[COLOR="DarkRed"]Darren no doubt fielding one of my gentle taunts, about all that work :wave:[/COLOR]
[COLOR="darkred"]Meanwhile, we've almost finished[/COLOR]
The demo of the single-bucket rinseless wash held up with its usual surprise
over how much dirt the MF left loose gathers, compared to the upper three
quarters. It only goes to prove the lightness of touch needed.
[COLOR="darkred"]So, rinseless wash on driver's side and 2BM the other[/COLOR]
[COLOR="darkred"]The only photo of the decon process where even a strong chemical like Tardis failed...[/COLOR]
[COLOR="blue"]The Clay Cloth Process[/COLOR]
This stage was very much an eye-opener. With the paint looking fairly clean,
everyone was invited to gently stroke the bonnet and asked for an opinion. A
fine sandpaper was the collective comparison.
Instead of using clay, which was discussed as the choice previously, a full
explanation of what a clay cloth is, and how it works was given. No sooner
than it touched the paint and was moved, there were gasps at the rough
sound-track coming from the bonnet's surface.
[COLOR="DarkRed"]I'm explaining that the surface needs to be well lubricated so that the
rubber membrane does not directly make contact with the paint[/COLOR]
[COLOR="DarkRed"]Nick is seen checking that he's okay to continue.
Note how he'll gently push the cloth back with his pinky finger
without adding any pressure to the existing weight of the cloth[/COLOR]
[COLOR="darkred"]Here's Nick again, with him and Jack really taking to the task[/COLOR]
There's no doubt that the clay-cloth created the biggest impact, especially as
the process required nothing more than gently pushing it back and forth, with
a fairly frequent turn and lubrication check. ONR was used once again. As on
the previous meet, some guidance was given on what to do with a brand new
cloth, using the cloth offered as a draw prize.
[COLOR="blue"]It Gets Serious[/COLOR]
When you get two enthusiasts who have taken this hobby to the next stage
you encounter almost a patois of phrases that few can get their head around.
You do have to listen intently! This comes to light when a paint depth gauge
(PDG) is produced by Jordan. It's an impressive bit of kit...
[COLOR="DarkRed"]You need to listen intently when two experts discuss paint depth measurement![/COLOR]
[COLOR="DarkRed"]A look of consternation from Jordan, having just dropped his PDG[/COLOR]
[COLOR="darkred"]...and some words of comfort from Darren because, if all else fails, consult the manual[/COLOR]
[COLOR="blue"]The Paint Evaluation Stage[/COLOR]
Having got the paint quite impressively smooth, we then came to discuss
what might follow and to assess whether or not the paint was ready for the
application of protective potions like wax etc.
Our day's ambition was to get the paint as smooth and as clean as we could.
It was clear that the processes used so far had gone a fair way to achieving
that goal, but no-one was convinced that we'd gone far enough. Up to this
point nothing with an abrasive had been used and following the mantra of
always using the least aggressive methods first, our choice would be a potion
that chemically cleans.
[COLOR="blue"]The Chemical Clean[/COLOR]
[COLOR="darkred"]Almost exclusively recommended by the team. Serious Performance Paint Cleanser (SPPC)[/COLOR]
Here came the introduction of pads to use by hand. For this task a firm white
pad was chosen and the change to its characteristics once dunked into fairly
warm water was appreciated.
[COLOR="DarkRed"]Nick working the SPPC, note how he has followed the guidance of concentrating
on one clear area before moving on to the next[/COLOR]
[COLOR="DarkRed"]The buffing stage, with cloth neatly folded into four as it should be
[/COLOR]
To be continued in Part 2...[/color]
All Photographs used with permission;
Copyright © 2017 Neil Sheppard All Rights Reserved
Regards,
Steve
My apologies about the codes - they work everywhere else
Hello Folks,
[color="#000077"]
[COLOR="Blue"]Introduction[/COLOR]
Below is a bit of a resumé of the potions and their techniques we used on the
day. Our Q car was a 2009 Vauxhall Astra Estate with paint crying out for a
bit of TLC. After the short welcome speech, I made sure that no-one went
home without speaking to a soul. What really happened was that the whole
group gelled together almost instantly. It was soon clear that the day was
going to be quite special.
[COLOR="blue"]A Very Basic Tool[/COLOR]
After the "safety briefing" I then began with the most basic tool in anyone's
armoury; the microfibre cloth. Passing it around and asking about attitude
and techniques quite often shows how much we take them for granted.
It's a bit of a cheat because it helps the group leaders to gauge the level of
expertise without having to ask lots of maybe embarrassing questions. It's a
strange thing that most often the microfibre cloth is only seen as a "bit of a
posh duster". By the end of the day, that view will change, markedly!
[COLOR="blue"]The Wheels & Decon[/COLOR]
The first part of tackling the car was to clean and decon the wheels. Sadly,
there are no photographs of this, but Bilberry and BH Auto Wheel were given
the task, with some success. That being said, there wasn't a huge reaction to
the Auto Wheel, so rinsing-off was a breeze.
[COLOR="blue"]The Washing Process - Direct Comparison[/COLOR]
The whole day works by everyone being given a full hands-on experience,
with proper explanations for both approach and expectation of the result.
[COLOR="DarkRed"]Darren explaining the preparations for the 2-Bucket Method (2BM) [/COLOR]
Of course, with this meet having a "Winter Prep" influence, the less-water
approach can become an attractive alternative.
[COLOR="DarkRed"]Here I am, priming my ONR spray bottle[/COLOR]
I think the biggest surprise to the gathering, so far, was the entirely gentle
approach and just how important the manipulation of the MF cloth is in
avoiding creating swirls. My mentioning that: It's all in the wrist-action,
always raises a titter or two.
[COLOR="darkred"]Here's Nick having a go and finding it rewarding[/COLOR]
[COLOR="DarkRed"]Darren no doubt fielding one of my gentle taunts, about all that work :wave:[/COLOR]
[COLOR="darkred"]Meanwhile, we've almost finished[/COLOR]
The demo of the single-bucket rinseless wash held up with its usual surprise
over how much dirt the MF left loose gathers, compared to the upper three
quarters. It only goes to prove the lightness of touch needed.
[COLOR="darkred"]So, rinseless wash on driver's side and 2BM the other[/COLOR]
[COLOR="darkred"]The only photo of the decon process where even a strong chemical like Tardis failed...[/COLOR]
[COLOR="blue"]The Clay Cloth Process[/COLOR]
This stage was very much an eye-opener. With the paint looking fairly clean,
everyone was invited to gently stroke the bonnet and asked for an opinion. A
fine sandpaper was the collective comparison.
Instead of using clay, which was discussed as the choice previously, a full
explanation of what a clay cloth is, and how it works was given. No sooner
than it touched the paint and was moved, there were gasps at the rough
sound-track coming from the bonnet's surface.
[COLOR="DarkRed"]I'm explaining that the surface needs to be well lubricated so that the
rubber membrane does not directly make contact with the paint[/COLOR]
[COLOR="DarkRed"]Nick is seen checking that he's okay to continue.
Note how he'll gently push the cloth back with his pinky finger
without adding any pressure to the existing weight of the cloth[/COLOR]
[COLOR="darkred"]Here's Nick again, with him and Jack really taking to the task[/COLOR]
There's no doubt that the clay-cloth created the biggest impact, especially as
the process required nothing more than gently pushing it back and forth, with
a fairly frequent turn and lubrication check. ONR was used once again. As on
the previous meet, some guidance was given on what to do with a brand new
cloth, using the cloth offered as a draw prize.
[COLOR="blue"]It Gets Serious[/COLOR]
When you get two enthusiasts who have taken this hobby to the next stage
you encounter almost a patois of phrases that few can get their head around.
You do have to listen intently! This comes to light when a paint depth gauge
(PDG) is produced by Jordan. It's an impressive bit of kit...
[COLOR="DarkRed"]You need to listen intently when two experts discuss paint depth measurement![/COLOR]
[COLOR="DarkRed"]A look of consternation from Jordan, having just dropped his PDG[/COLOR]
[COLOR="darkred"]...and some words of comfort from Darren because, if all else fails, consult the manual[/COLOR]
[COLOR="blue"]The Paint Evaluation Stage[/COLOR]
Having got the paint quite impressively smooth, we then came to discuss
what might follow and to assess whether or not the paint was ready for the
application of protective potions like wax etc.
Our day's ambition was to get the paint as smooth and as clean as we could.
It was clear that the processes used so far had gone a fair way to achieving
that goal, but no-one was convinced that we'd gone far enough. Up to this
point nothing with an abrasive had been used and following the mantra of
always using the least aggressive methods first, our choice would be a potion
that chemically cleans.
[COLOR="blue"]The Chemical Clean[/COLOR]
[COLOR="darkred"]Almost exclusively recommended by the team. Serious Performance Paint Cleanser (SPPC)[/COLOR]
Here came the introduction of pads to use by hand. For this task a firm white
pad was chosen and the change to its characteristics once dunked into fairly
warm water was appreciated.
[COLOR="DarkRed"]Nick working the SPPC, note how he has followed the guidance of concentrating
on one clear area before moving on to the next[/COLOR]
[COLOR="DarkRed"]The buffing stage, with cloth neatly folded into four as it should be
[/COLOR]To be continued in Part 2...[/color]
All Photographs used with permission;
Copyright © 2017 Neil Sheppard All Rights Reserved
Regards,
Steve
Edited by LowiePete on Monday 25th March 17:49
Thanks for the write up Steve, a really good aide memoir for the day.
A couple of things to support your efforts, the clay cloth was a real surprise. Very easy to use with a very light touch. The car really was rough to the touch after the initial wash and the difference from using the cloth in only several minutes on the bonnet was incredible. They are a must for anyone.
The use of ONR in the water and as a lubricant really does make it easy, it prevents the smearing that you can see the side done in the photo's. If you want to do any washing at shows where you may have limited water it is easy and very effective. The folding and use of the MF cloth also makes quite a difference.
Finally the demo of Glare from Darren was impressive, not only in how it removed swirl marks but the fact that if you have old, thin or soft paint it will restore without reducing thickness. Whilst you will be limited to using their polish the results were very impressive.
Thanks again for arranging this and your efforts on the day
Nick
A couple of things to support your efforts, the clay cloth was a real surprise. Very easy to use with a very light touch. The car really was rough to the touch after the initial wash and the difference from using the cloth in only several minutes on the bonnet was incredible. They are a must for anyone.
The use of ONR in the water and as a lubricant really does make it easy, it prevents the smearing that you can see the side done in the photo's. If you want to do any washing at shows where you may have limited water it is easy and very effective. The folding and use of the MF cloth also makes quite a difference.
Finally the demo of Glare from Darren was impressive, not only in how it removed swirl marks but the fact that if you have old, thin or soft paint it will restore without reducing thickness. Whilst you will be limited to using their polish the results were very impressive.
Thanks again for arranging this and your efforts on the day
Nick
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