RE: Ask a Professional Detailer...
Login  | |
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/14/2007 9:31:07 PM
|
|
|
headshok2002
Posts: 5831
Joined: 12/4/2004
Status: online
|
How do you guys go about getting salt out of upholstry? My black carpet is caked with white salt all around my floor mats. Not looking forward to trying to get it to come out... I've used citrus degreaser in the past, but it was always a lot of work.
_____________________________
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/14/2007 9:37:45 PM
|
|
|
ouTTie914
Posts: 3346
Joined: 7/22/2006
From: Maple Shade, NJ
Status: offline
|
Awesome!
I was wondering who to ask about getting these black streaks off my sliver paint. Stupid ice scrapers!
I've tried to clay bar them off... that didn't work.
Also, do you have a write up on wet sanding light scratches?
I'm so nervous to attempt this for the first time that I keep putting it off!
Any quick remedies for nasty wheel rash?
*sighs* ...If only I lived upstate!
_____________________________
Look I'm on YouTube!
More YouTubeage
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/14/2007 9:38:29 PM
|
|
|
votblindub
Posts: 844
Joined: 8/21/2006
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: headshok2002
How do you guys go about getting salt out of upholstry? My black carpet is caked with white salt all around my floor mats. Not looking forward to trying to get it to come out... I've used citrus degreaser in the past, but it was always a lot of work.
im with headshok on this one. i cleaned out my winter mats and ive got this ridge built up. its crusty and hard
_____________________________
  dont kill me
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/15/2007 12:55:35 AM
|
|
|
Lazer Viking
Posts: 3325
Joined: 7/10/2006
From: Lancaster pa
Status: offline
|
okay, i have a good one.. what can i do with really really dried, baked, and all around permantly on pine sap.. on a black car (its been there for atleast 5 years)
_____________________________
-Nic
VDO l VVME l H&R l BURBERRY l OEM l FORGE l G.I.A.C l P.S.I l RaceTec l Magnaflow
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/15/2007 2:03:32 PM
|
|
|
Detailed Image
Posts: 78
Joined: 3/29/2007
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: i3uddha
WOW what a great thread ! ! ! 
your'e a great resource to me since your'e familiar w/ the B5S4's
interior:
curious on how u do a basic routine clean up of the alcantara? I have the silverish / white
& its getting pretty dingy... I was always told - just lightly damp cloth & if needed
Mr Clean eraser bars.. do u recomended anything else??
exterior:
what is the best way to keep all the exterior trim / vinyl etc looking black...
including the hood grill, window trim etc....
& best remedy to get my brown brake dust caked tires looking clean?
THANKS AGAIN !
Thank you so much for the positive feedback so far. It's greatly appreciated.
Alcantara can be a very delicate surface to maintain. Here are some links dedicated to Alcantara care directly from www.alcantara.com
Ordinary Maintenance | General Washing Instructions | Stain Removal
I've heard a lot of people resort to the Mr. Clean Eraser. With any product, I'd recommend spot treating it in a small area before doing your entire seat with it just to play it safe. I've had good luck with 303's cleaners as well.
As far as your exterior trim is concerned, is it new trim that you want to keep looking new? So you'd be looking for a protectant. Or is it faded trim that needs to be restored? Let me know and I'll be happy to give my recommendations. 303 Aerospace Protectant is great for maintaining new trim and preventing fading with its UV Protection. For restoring black trim, I like using Leatherique Rubber Dye and for non-black trim Poorboy's World Trim Restorer. Keep in mind that most trim restorers are temporary fixes unless you are using a product that literally dyes the surface, like the Leatherique one mentioned above. Even with that, it takes multiple applications and proper care for it to effectively begin to permanently change colors.
To get your tires clean, you'll want to use a quality rubber cleaner or a degreaser. You also may want to use a bristled brush to agitate the surface, but be careful to not use the brush on your rims as it would add scratches and swirls, especially on a polished lip. Also, the rubber cleaner or degreaser may oxidize highly polished wheels, so do not use the product liberally so that it gets all over your nice wheels. I used Poorboy's Biodegradable APC at our shop and diluted it down to 3:1 but like I said, I wouldn't recommend getting this product on the surface of high polished wheels.
Also, another thing you want to keep in mind is that silicone based tire dressings can cause your tires to discolor and brown easily. They also have a tendency to sling up onto your paint when applied liberally without being buffed off completely. I recommend a water based tire dressing which actually will get absorbed into the rubber and nourish the rubber with proper conditioners keeping the tire soft and flexible, rather than drying it out like some products can. Silicone based dressings primarily sit on the surface of the tire which is why you see the sling more often with silicone based dressings. Water based tire dressings do not last as long or give off as much gloss as a silicone based dressing. Just some extra things to consider.
Let me know about the trim and I can go into more detail on anything if you wish. Thanks again for the positive feedback!
George @ Detailed Image
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/15/2007 2:44:22 PM
|
|
|
Detailed Image
Posts: 78
Joined: 3/29/2007
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: headshok2002
How do you guys go about getting salt out of upholstry? My black carpet is caked with white salt all around my floor mats. Not looking forward to trying to get it to come out... I've used citrus degreaser in the past, but it was always a lot of work.
We had a high powered carpet extractor to handle salt stains. Took them out pretty effortlessly, but this is a $2000 professional piece of equipment. This is how I would go about removing salt stains by hand.
Equipment Recommended:
A firm bristle upholstery brush
Carpet or upholstery cleaner of choice
Spray bottle filled with hot water
Process:
1. First I'd take the firm brush to it and vacuum up any loose contamination.
2. I'd suggest spraying on the carpet cleaner and letting it sit for a couple of minutes or as the directions on the bottle recommend.
3. Prior to agitating the stain, mist the hot water onto the affected area.
4. Use the firm bristle brush again on the stain and give it some elbow grease.
5. Repeat until desired results are achieved
6. Vacuum (possibly using a wet / dry vac if a lot of water was used) up any loose debris
This is essentially creates the effect of a carpet extractor but by doing it all manually.
Afterwards, I would recommend protecting the carpets with a product like 303 High Tech Fabric Guard or Scotch Guard to help prevent future stains from building up so much and making them difficult to remove.
Let us know how you make out with removing the stains and what worked for you.
George @ Detailed Image
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/15/2007 3:15:22 PM
|
|
|
Detailed Image
Posts: 78
Joined: 3/29/2007
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: ouTTie914
Awesome!
I was wondering who to ask about getting these black streaks off my sliver paint. Stupid ice scrapers!
I've tried to clay bar them off... that didn't work.
Also, do you have a write up on wet sanding light scratches?
I'm so nervous to attempt this for the first time that I keep putting it off!
Any quick remedies for nasty wheel rash?
*sighs* ...If only I lived upstate!
Good questions. I'm assuming the black streaks aren't scratches past the paint and showing primer or metal and is transfer from the scraper. If clay bar didn't work for you, the next logical step would be to use a light abrasive polish on it. Depending on if you plan on tackling this by hand or with a buffer would vary my product recommendation. You could try something like Meguiars ScratchX for a hand applied product that could be found at almost any local automotive store. The Poorboy's SSR line of polishes would be another choice for removing the marks by hand or the Menzerna line of polishes would be what I recommend to use with a buffer. Always start with the least aggressive polish to get the job done, rather than jumping into something that will remove more of your clear coat than needed.
Regarding the light scratches, have you already exhausted the abrasive polish route up to compounding? You certainly would want to do that before even attempting to wetsand. I can put something together on wetsanding if you like. I just picked up a new digital SLR and plan on documenting as much of the detailing process as I possibly can with it.
As far as curb rash on wheels, this is a great writeup on caring for them (ironically its on an Audi too).
Fixing Curb Rash
If you have any questions on anything, please do not hesitate to ask.
George
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/15/2007 3:31:19 PM
|
|
|
Detailed Image
Posts: 78
Joined: 3/29/2007
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: Lazer Viking
okay, i have a good one.. what can i do with really really dried, baked, and all around permantly on pine sap.. on a black car (its been there for atleast 5 years)
Great question - I tackle sap with a mix of 50/50 Water and Isopropyl Alcohol (found at a local drugstore)... if that doesn't do the trick, I usually mix in some Poorboy's Bio-APC (diluted 3:1) or another degreaser. I let the alcohol soak for 30 seconds to a minute and then proceed to pick at the top of the sap (not touching your paint with your nail). If you're lucky you'll remove a solid portion of the sap leaving you with just an outer ring, which can take some time and effort to completely remove.
I'll typically attack the ring with a clay bar first to remove as much contamination, then a light polish if needed. After doing these steps you will want to re-protect the area so you'll need to seal or wax the area you just worked on. Being that the sap has sat on the surface for 5 years, you may have some permanent damage underneath which should be addressed properly. Let me know if you need any help with that.
Hope this helps, good luck!
George
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/15/2007 3:50:45 PM
|
|
|
Lopster99
Posts: 245
Joined: 2/26/2007
Status: offline
|
Wow, thanks alot for the feedback. You know your stuff and glad to see to see you share the information! I am about to order that stuff you have just mentioned to me now. I do not have enough spare cash to buy the Buffer.
Do you think i can do it by hand and get a good finish product?
Thanks again. Im ordering the products right now! I cant wait to do this job when the weather clears up!
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/15/2007 6:26:54 PM
|
|
|
ouTTie914
Posts: 3346
Joined: 7/22/2006
From: Maple Shade, NJ
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: Detailed Image
Regarding the light scratches, have you already exhausted the abrasive polish route up to compounding? You certainly would want to do that before even attempting to wetsand. I can put something together on wetsanding if you like. I just picked up a new digital SLR and plan on documenting as much of the detailing process as I possibly can with it.
George.... YOU ROCK!
You are corrected about the ice scraper. I now plan on purchasing the polishes you recommended.
As far as the light scratches go. Well, most are swallow, there is one nasty little gouge that will most likely need filling.
I had no idea there were more steps to detailing the exterior besides wash, dry, clay bar, and waxing!
I will definitely try the polishing methods, after carefully studying at Detail University! 
It's so disheartening after putting all the effort into doing the best to can to clean your car and still having to look at hideous scratches!
Needless to say, it's great having you around!
_____________________________
Look I'm on YouTube!
More YouTubeage
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/15/2007 8:03:52 PM
|
|
|
Detailed Image
Posts: 78
Joined: 3/29/2007
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: Lopster99
Wow, thanks alot for the feedback. You know your stuff and glad to see to see you share the information! I am about to order that stuff you have just mentioned to me now. I do not have enough spare cash to buy the Buffer.
Do you think i can do it by hand and get a good finish product?
Thanks again. Im ordering the products right now! I cant wait to do this job when the weather clears up!
Lopster99 - We greatly appreciate the support and feedback.
I think you will still achieve great results by hand, but keep in mind to truely break down the micro abrasive particles in the polish you need constant pressure and enough heat to break them down. It is a very tiresome process done by hand, but as long as your are ready, willing and abled you will get some great results and a sore arm! Keep us posted on how you make out, I'm excited to hear about your experience. Remember the prep work is the most important steps so spend the most time, washing, claying and polishing. The rest will fall into place once you have mastered those areas.
If you need any assistance along the way, I'm just an email, PM, or post away.
George
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/15/2007 11:25:48 PM
|
|
|
i3uddha
unofficial AF West Coast ambassador
Posts: 7313
Joined: 8/14/2005
From: SoCaL~
Status: offline
|
George - thanks for the advice...
I guess my question oon the previous pg regarding the exterior trim of the S4 was for both instances...
I have a new Rs4 grill & Id like to keep it looking new & protect it..
I also have the window exterior trim which is in need of some rejuvenation.
Thanks again ...
< Message edited by i3uddha -- 4/15/2007 11:26:13 PM >
_____________________________
B5 S4 FOR SALE - PM ME
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/16/2007 1:36:25 PM
|
|
|
Lopster99
Posts: 245
Joined: 2/26/2007
Status: offline
|
Hey George, I am waiting for my products to come in, i am so excited to see what my car will look like! I forgot to order the dispenser bottles  Im annoyed, and i dont want to do another seperate transaction just for that so i will get some at a local store i hope!
I had a quick question, How do i get old wax off of rubber molding around the windows? I have quit a bit and i can't get it off for the life of me!
Also one more question if you don't mind, How do I get the cracks to dissapear or hide them on my leather seats. My driver seat isn't to bad but it does have some minor cracks that bother me. I was wondering if there is a product to "cover them up"
Thanks in advance, your a great help!
Dennis
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/16/2007 7:15:27 PM
|
|
|
Detailed Image
Posts: 78
Joined: 3/29/2007
Status: offline
|
quote:
ORIGINAL: Lopster99
Hey George, I am waiting for my products to come in, i am so excited to see what my car will look like! I forgot to order the dispenser bottles Im annoyed, and i dont want to do another seperate transaction just for that so i will get some at a local store i hope!
I had a quick question, How do i get old wax off of rubber molding around the windows? I have quit a bit and i can't get it off for the life of me!
Also one more question if you don't mind, How do I get the cracks to dissapear or hide them on my leather seats. My driver seat isn't to bad but it does have some minor cracks that bother me. I was wondering if there is a product to "cover them up"
Thanks in advance, your a great help!
Dennis
Dennis - We greatly appreciate the support, I'm excited to hear about your results. As far as the dispenser bottles are concerned, try your local dollar store, a beauty supply store, or an arts and crafts store. One of those places should have something for you.
As far as the old wax is concerned, try a combination of water and isopropyl alcohol (also found locally at any drug store). This will properly prep the surface and often helps remove old wax buildup.
For the creases in your leather, try laying a damp wash cloth over the leather during a hot sunny day. This will help expand your leather and can minimize some crease marks. Aside from that, you'd want to make sure you properly condition your leather regularly. You can also look into www.leatherique.com for some kits they have to fix leather. I haven't personally used them other than the Rejuvenator Oil and Prestine Clean that I stock but I've heard good things.
Keep us posted on how you make out with your detail! If you have any questions on anything, let me know.
George
_____________________________
Detailed Image - High quality automotive detailing products, tools and useful how-to sections.
Detail University - Automotive Detailing Discussion Board
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/17/2007 8:56:27 PM
|
|
|
i3uddha
unofficial AF West Coast ambassador
Posts: 7313
Joined: 8/14/2005
From: SoCaL~
Status: offline
|
Hmmmm George
I think u just answered my ?'s w/ that 303 aerospace protectant...
use it on external trim (honeycomb grill / foglight housing etc) as well as the black
that surrounds the exterior of the windows - I think Ill be staying away from the dyes -
but will defnietly be picking up some of that 303 from u soon...
seems like great stuff - u can use it on the plastic engine covers too?
_____________________________
B5 S4 FOR SALE - PM ME
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/18/2007 12:30:51 AM
|
|
|
ADubyaD
SoCal Crew Member
Posts: 830
Joined: 7/31/2006
Status: offline
|
Awsome thread, wish I had seen a bit sooner as I have been fighting an ongoing war with my GF's BMW's ****ty paint. Spent 4 hours last weekend on just the meguirs step one deep cleaner. Every microfiber cloth or polishing pad i used would turn black, paint is starting to shine more though. and Jason I think for your tires most tire shines work pretty well at cleaning and keeping a wet look, The one with the plastic tire handle is the one i use most and it seems to work pretty well
_____________________________
2000 S4 6speed Black/Black
-Giac-710N''s-Vast MBC-Darintake-NGKR Plugs-ECS FPR-APR Boost Gauge-Stasis Tranny-Stasis 4:1 Diff-RS4 Clutch-UUC Shortshitfter-Zimmerman Drilled/Slotted Rotors-Mintex Redbox-Red Calipers-M3 Lip-Tint
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Ask a Professional Detailer... - 4/18/2007 8:56:38 AM
|
|
|
votblindub
Posts: 844
Joined: 8/21/2006
Status: offline
|
George, Ive got a pesky stain on my Y pipe. Im not sure what it is, but it might be oil and some dust in it. Is it okay to try to use some rubbing alcohol or some engine degreaser on a paper towel?
_____________________________
dont kill me
|
|
|
|
|
Printable Version
) well done
