|
|
By Paul Gasparola & Angel Brown - 2000©
This article is designed to educate the novice on auto detailing and provide concourse quality detailing tips.
The Basics
Auto detailing is the process of making an automobile
look its best without major dismantling or repainting. But, detailing is much
more than a quick wash and vacuuming. Detailing requires careful planning and
methods. Today's car detailing is an art.
The following is an overview of proven professional tips
and some little secrets learned over the years.
- CLEAN is the word - either custom or original.
- If the engine is cosmoline covered, first use a citrus cleaner to
remove the majority of the chemical. WD-40 will also work. Use a soft detailing
brush and apply the cleaner, brush and wipe. Repeat as required. Never do large
sections of the motor at a time.
- Make sure all rubber is dressed.
- Judges have been known to check even wires (spark or otherwise) for
correct curvature coming out of the control boxes or distributors. Make sure
every wire is properly tie wrapped. Stay away from cheap hose covers that
simulate braided lines.
- Dirt under the radiator overflow hoses is a common point loser.
Almost all show detailers forget this one. During a full show detail, all
engine hoses should be removed from the brackets, cleaned and dressed.
- Align all hose clamps, screw slots should also be vertical and any
cotter pins straight and bent in the same manner.
- Remove all engine debris with high pressure air. Make sure all
radiator and/or cooler fins are straightened.
- As far as originality in the engine: Do not overlook the paint marks
placed on items in and on the engine at the factory. They mean more points if
they were not removed or painted over.
|
