(Part 2) Best car wash equipment according to redditors

Ok, after four months with the car, here goes...

​

Charging

• Wall Connector $500. Not necessary but I'd recommend biting the bullet before taking delivery, so you can keep the mobile charger in the car. The electrical work took 2 hours of time, at $130/hr. I highly recommend installing a dedicated 60-amp breaker and an efficient gauge wire which will give you 45 mi/hr of charge.
  
• Charging Adapters $35. Car comes with the 5-15 and 14-50. I strongly recommend buying the 5-20. If you plan to charge at someone else's house on a roadtrip, ask them to send you a picture of their dryer plug. So far, I've needed the 10-30 and 14-30.
  
• NEMA 5-15P to 5-20R Adapter $20. Strongly recommended in combo with Tesla's 5-20 adapter to "cheat" a 16-amp charge (33% faster charging). Must-watch this video, and must-read here, here, here, and here.
  
  Tesla OEM
  
  
• Cargo Mats for Frunk & Trunk $70 & $130. Must-have some sort of trunk mat, since the trunk material is generally poor quality for heavy use.
  
• Front Sunshade $75. Living in Florida, this is a must-have if you dont plan on tinting the top glass panel. The "front" is acutally the middle of the three glass panels, not the windshield.
  
• Paint Repair Kit $55. Nice to have so you're ready for rock chips. So far I've had one that made it through the black paint and silver primer.
  
  Detailing
  
  
• Aero Cosmetics Complete Car Kit $40. Highly recommended. Pricey but saves time for amazing results. Cheaper and better quality than CarGuys products. I liked it so much that I ended up buying this also.
  
• Invisible Glass Spray Cleaner $4. Recommended that you have some glass cleaner that's not Windex. This brand is one of the best.
  
• Wash Mitt 2-pack $16. Highly recommended compared to a wet rag.
  
• Tire and Wheel Brush $8. It's important to segregate parts you use on wheels from parts you use on paint. This product is solid.
  
• Grit Guard $8. Totally optional. Helps separate dirt in the bucket when cleaning. You'll see a difference in the water.
  
  Third-Party
  
  
• Tough-Pro Interior Mats $80. My opinion is that all-weather mats are a must-have. The stock mats are crappy, and all-weather mats make cleaning easier. These are cheaper than Tesla's all-weather mats. I'm happy with them but I'd buy the OEM Tesla ones if I could do it again.
  
• Upgraded White LED Lights $13-$77. Must-have for the trunk. Optional for others. I replaced all 7 non-footwell. Easy install with a credit card. As a bonus, I have one left over, so PM me if you want it.
  
• Kenriko Matte Wrap for Center Console $30. Must-have. Watch his install videos first. Customer service is excellent if you screw up the install like I did. The matte black matches the black leather interior perfectly. I'm sure the matte white is nice too.
  
• Pet Cover for Trunk $45. I couldn't find anything better for driving my dogs, so I use this one with the back seats down, along with Tesla's rubber trunk mat. I'd say my setup prevents 90% of dog wear, and keeps any dog smell to a minimum.
  
• Nomad Wireless Charger $130. Nice to have. Not available until end of November, but battery is integrated unlike the comeptitor's.
  
• Rubber Cupholder Liners $25. Optional, helps with cleaning.
  
• Drop Stop $20. Optional, makes life easier.
  
• Air Compressor $25. Optional but recommended. Look for one with automatic shutoff.
  
• Tire Plug Kit $8. If you're handy, this is a cheap solution to be ready for a flat. If you're not handy, get Tesla's tire repair kit.
  
• Card Holder $5. Optional. Keep in your center console so valet has a way to hang your card key.

Like djdish said, spray some apc then scrub it with a brush

Also, I would never use tire gel on my tires as they make the surface really slick, slippery, and resistant to water which is a bad thing on a bike, even on the sidewalls of the tire.

I hang out at /r/AutoDetailing a lot also - been keeping cars clean for 50+ years. Here's the destilled version before you wade through what others do. Buy some good car wash soap, I use Meguiar's, it's red in color. I've tried their up-scale one that's yellow, I don't like the film it seems to leave on the car. Buy a good microfiber mitt for the paint, (like this: https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Car-Wash-Mitt-Microfiber/dp/B011B25IXY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1487081035&sr=8-3&keywords=microfiber+wash+mitt) and a good large sponge for the tires/wheels. Use the two-bucket method, have two buckets full of soap. When you wash a section, mitt goes first in one bucket, swish it around a bit, then put it in the other bucket to get fresh soap for the next wash section. Leave the wheels for last and DON'T use the mitt, use the sponge for them. Wash the wheels/tires a couple of times, you might need one of these to help (like this: https://www.amazon.com/Viking-862600-Black-Premium-Metal/dp/B0051MYLS4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1487081149&sr=8-2&keywords=microfiber+wheel+brush). When done washing use a waffle weave for drying (like this: https://www.amazon.com/Microfiber-Absorbent-Detailing-Professional-Flawless/dp/B00MA94SOS/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1487081214&sr=8-4&keywords=waffle+towel+car). They are amazing at getting the water up and leaving your car streak free. When drying, start with the windows first.

This is the exact brush I use

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013HJDOI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I got it after I saw it recommended by somebody on this subreddit

WARNING: The post above is full of referral links.

Here's a copy with all of OP's referral links removed:

CART

• WEN 7300 Utility Cart
  
• Tornado Hooks of Various Sizes
  
• Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer
  
• Basic Wood Screws
  
  
  PRODUCTS
  
  
• CG Best Selling Products Kit
  
• CG Honey Dew Snow Foam
  
• CG Butter Wet Wax
  
• CG Diablo Wheel Gel
  
• CG V7 Hybrid Quick Detailer
  
• CG Jet Seal
  
• CG VRP Dressing
  
• CG Bug and Tar Remover
  
• CG Glossworkx Glaze
  
• CarPro Iron X
  
• Shine Society Glass Cleaner
  
• Black Mamba Black Gloves
  
• Zwipes Waffle Weave Towel
  
• 50 Pack of Microfiber Towels
  
• Detailers Brush
  
• Wheel Brush
  
• Viking Wheel Brush
  
  EQUIPMENT
  
  
• Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer
  
• Sun Joe Pressure Washer Extension Cord
  
• MATCC Snow Foamer
  
• Extension Cord 50ft
  
• TORQ Orbital Polisher
  
  
  

I use Various Combinations of the following for my Dirt and Street bikes.

• Pressure Washer
  
• Simple Green Bike Cleaner/Degreaser
  
• Mr. Pink Super Suds
  
• Aluminum Grunge Brush
  
• Short Handle Body Brush
  
• Large Wheel Brush
  
• Upholstery Detailing Brush (works great on Sidewalls)
  
• Maxima Chain Care kit

This review is on [Nanoskin Grease Free Power Cleaner and Degreaser ] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JM62970/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) I am beginning to become a big fan of the Nanoskin Line. After my last review of the [Nanoskin Non Acid-Wheel and Tire cleaner] (https://www.reddit.com/r/AutoDetailing/comments/4qo7e8/nanoskin_nonacid_wheel_and_tire_cleaner_review/) I decided to place another order of some products from them. I ordered directly through their website and I got it in one day. The only problem I didn't like is the labels seemed shotty (spelling errors/half ass placings) and the bottle of the wheel cleaner appeared as if was dry rotted or had been baking in the sun for some time. The top handle was discolored and rough feeling.


The Nanoskin Degreaser compares to [Meguiars D108] (http://www.meguiars.com/en/professional/products/d10801-super-degreaser/#lVVlDd2KFhs2pf0t.97) but you don't have to use as much product with the Nanoskin. I did this review with it diluted 10:1 and it worked very very well. I used a [Parts Cleaning Brush] (https://www.amazon.com/Lisle-14000-Parts-Cleaning-Brush/dp/B0009OMYDS/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1468014900&sr=1-1&keywords=parts+cleaning+brush) / [sheepskin wheel cleaning tool] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009VF1AY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) , a detailing toothbrush and a harder bristle brush from home depot with a long handle. I also used a [flag tipped wheel brush] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00X123Y7A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1). See the imgur link for the details of the review.


The other products I ordered in the one pic were [ Nanoskin Shake n Clean Spot Free Surface and Glass Cleaner ] (http://www.nanoskinusa.com/collections/cleaners-soaps-degreasers-maintenance/products/shake-n-clean-spot-free-glass-surface-cleaner) and [ Nanoskin Non Acid Wheel and Tire Cleaner ] (http://www.nanoskinusa.com/collections/cleaners-soaps-degreasers-maintenance/products/nano-suds-wash-shine-shampoo-plus ) and the [Iron Free ] (http://www.nanoskinusa.com/collections/cleaners-soaps-degreasers-maintenance/products/iron-free-paint-wheel-glass-decontamination-fallout-remover) .

Thanks for looking.

I bought this one from Amazon and while I have never tried any others, it works pretty well for what I paid; 27 dollars. The CG version is more than double that. Although I do use CG Honeydew Snow Foam in it.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00ZOT9NNW

the status says "squeegeed" juice instead of "squeezed" juice

I've always struggled to keep my vehicles clean because 1) they were always old, 2) I've lived in condos, 3) car washes did a terrible job / detailers charged too much, and 4) I didn't realize you could do all of this yourself pretty effectively.


When I bought a new truck at the beginnging of the year, I randomly stumbled upon an Ammo NYC video and the nerd / clean-freak was intrigued. A couple dozen videos later, and I was hooked. Shout out to Larry for your passion - thank you for the insane amount of information on your channel. (Wish I could afford all of your products, or that you had some of them on Amazon!).

Living in a condo, I have to swing by my local coin wash and take up a bay with a few buckets during off-peak hours, but I've gotten it down to 1.5 hours and looking like this every time.

I've only been doing this for a few months, but thought I'd share the products I've researched and selected based on reviews and costs. Hope this helps save someone time!

TOOLS

• McGuire-Nicholas 22015 15-Inch Collapsible Tote - https://amzn.to/2HXGsvd - I love this thing. Handle is sturdy and holds every chemical I need.
  
• Relentless Drive Ultimate Car Wash Mitt - https://amzn.to/2KJC7td - Great mitt and would strongly recommend it. I've only used the mitt for a few washes so I can't comment on durability, but if I had to guess I think it's going to hold up. My only complaint is that it's so voluminous that it's difficult to rinse / wring out the dirt when using the two-bucket method. Not a big enough problem to look for another mitt, though.
  
  BUCKETS
  
  
• Chemical Guys ACC_101 Detailing Bucket Kit - https://amzn.to/2KJb552 - a good starter bucket, but it's worth calling out how much of this stuff is BS marketing: the bucket is only 4 gallons, the gamma lid can be bought for cheaper on amazon, the citrus gloss is OK, and the wash mitt is worthless / isn't going to hold up. I barely used the mitt once and fuzz falls off constantly when handling.
  
• Adam's Grit Guard Wash Bucket with Lid - https://amzn.to/2IoSflo - Better value than chemical guys, but the bucket is just a regular bucket ($4 at Home Depot) and the gamma lid can be purchased for $10-15 on Amazon. I'm not convinced grit guards are worth it, but more on that later.
  
• Grit Guard Washboard Bucket Insert - https://amzn.to/2HW4juZ - the product is well made and does what it's intended to do, but I'm skeptical of its value. Yes, rubbing your mitt on a washboard would intuitively get dirt to fall off, but is it actually more effective than using your hands (which you do anyway to wring out the mitt)? And I'm not buying that the fins "trap dirt." Anybody who looks at their rinse bucket while washing wheels for example can plainly see the water's black. Dirt's floating everywhere.
  
  
  CHEMICALS
  
  
• Mothers 08216 California Gold Instant Detailer - https://amzn.to/2KJ2f7t - this stuff has done a pretty good job for quick wipe-downs, spot cleans, etc.
  
• Griot's Garage 11108 Window Cleaner - https://amzn.to/2Iq5CSF - The spray bottle itself is awesome and works really well. The solution also seems to work well, though I've only ever used it after washing the truck and so I'm not sure how much it helps.
  
• Meguiar's G3626 Ultimate Waterless Wash & Wax - https://amzn.to/2jFg3DJ - I used this a few times with the microfiber directional pass method after some serious pollen clouds invaded Austin, and it worked surprisingly well. Ran through 3-4 towels to do my entire truck, then spot-cleaned with an instant detailer. Even though wheel wells and a few pieces were still dirty, it was a huge improvement without the hassle of a full wash. Will definitely be using this as my in-between wash method.
  
• Chemical Guys V7 High Gloss Spray Sealant and Quick Detailer - https://amzn.to/2HXiQ9R - I'm new to detailing, but this stuff is probably the most impressive chemical of everything I've used. The combination of a damp microfiber + V7 produces the result everyone thinks about when they think about car washes: a clean car with no streaks or water spots. Wringing out my microfiber towel can get old, but the end result is just awesome.
  
• Chemical Guys Citrus Wash and Gloss - https://amzn.to/2I1knvx - I don't have the luxury of a frother right now, but from simply adding some in a bucket and using a power washer to generate suds, I get decent foam and the soap seems to work well. That said, it's not earth-shattering and I will probably try other washes when I run out.
  
  
  INTERIOR
  
  
• Mothers 06512 All-In-One Leather Care - https://amzn.to/2IlawAg - This stuff works great and smells even better.
  
  
  WHEELS
  
  
• Adam's Deep Wheel Cleaner - https://amzn.to/2K09l6f - The spray bottle is terribly difficult to press and I always end up using way more than I want. I'm not confident I need to use this instead of just using soap. Maybe it's for exceptionally dirty cars or those with tons of brake dust, but I'm rarely in either camp so I may not buy some more after I run out.
  
• Adam's Hex-Grip Pro Tire Dressing Applicator - https://amzn.to/2HYtb5y - Works well and easy to handle.
  
• Mothers Wheel Brush - https://amzn.to/2K0Ky1Y - really like how easy this is to handle and how soft the bristles are. Highly recommended.
  
• Optimum Opti-Bond Tire Gel - https://amzn.to/2KJsxGP - This is a good low-gloss gel, though I need to try additional coats to see if I can get those tire shinier.
  
• ABN Car Wheel Rim Cleaning 3-Piece Kit - https://amzn.to/2KFgSIR - Yes the big woolie has good reach and allows you to clean the inside of your rims effectively, but the handle is annoyingly difficult to hold after it becomes saturated / heavy to hold.
  
  
  TOWELS
  
  
• Chemical Guys Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels, Gold - https://amzn.to/2HY8Q0a - these things are outsidanding and are a great value. Definitely watch Larry's video on microfiber care, which fixed all of my annoyances with microfibers accruing fuzz in the dryer.
  
• THE RAG COMPANY EAGLE EDGELESS 500 Korean 70/30 Super Plush 500gsm Microfiber Detailing Towels - https://amzn.to/2HYVmky - very high plush and high quality, though I end up using the Chemical Guys towels more often and save these for random spot details. Probably not ideal.
  
• THE RAG COMPANY Premium Window, Glass, Mirror & Chrome Korean 70/30 Microfiber - https://amzn.to/2rrveVg - work great for cleaning windows and mirrors.
  
• Nylon Laundry Bag - https://amzn.to/2rtYOcP - I have one bag for clean and one for dirty. Has done a great job of keeping dust off the rags during storage.

Hmmmm yes. One more. The GreaseNinja will make all your chain lubrications a breeze. I use that with Motul Factory Chain Wax.

For even easier chain cleaning once every 1k miles like I do, get a Tirox 360 brush and a chemical-resistant spraybottle and fill it with kerosene. Kerosene is amazing. It doesn't damage paint or anything and is totally safe on your chain, wipes away wax and lube fling in seconds, it's great, just make sure you have ventilation so it evaporates away quickly. Put the bike up on rear stand, put an oil catch pan under the chain, throw on some disposable work gloves, wrap the 360 around the chain, turn the rear and slide the 360 along the chain with sprays of kerosene. After some scrubs, wipe it down with a rag'll you throw away later. Your chain will shine like new in about 2 minutes. Let it sit for 5 minutes to have the kerosene evaporate, and then wax, let it sit for 5 minutes for the wax to set, and you're done. Clean, lubricated chain in 10 minutes.

Stole all of this directly from Canyon Chasers and they were absolutely fucking right about the GreaseNinja, the Tirox 360 and the kerosene. Chain cleaning went from chore, to breeze.

Let's start by saying car covers are a pain in the ass for daily use, the car has to be perfectly clean to prevent it from scratching and it just doesn't work that way unless the car is washed every couple of days.

Instead I'd just wash 1 or 2 times a week, and get a gallon-size of Meguiar's spray wax and Last Touch, because you know you'll be in a constant battle against certain elements, might as well stock up (and you save like 50% just buying in bulk this way). In fact I recommend checking out their entire detailer line because you're going to go through a lot of soaps, waxes, etc. Their gallon of shampoo plus for $20 is a great start. And you can find deals like 3-packs of their supreme shine towels for $6 as an amazon add-on item if you're a prime customer.

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-D11101-Shampoo-Plus-Gallon/dp/B000EZICII

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-X3002-Microfiber-Wash-Mitt/dp/B000RXKR6M/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1485457672&sr=1-1&keywords=meguiar%27s+microfiber+mitt

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-D15601-Synthetic-X-Press-Spray/dp/B005JPJMI2

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-D15501-Touch-Spray-Detailer/dp/B0006SH4NC/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1485453717&sr=1-1&keywords=last+touch

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-D12001-Glass-Cleaner-Concentrate/dp/B0006SH4KU/ref=sr_1_4?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1485457691&sr=1-4&keywords=meguiar%27s+glass+cleaner

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-Supreme-Shine-Microfiber-Cloths/dp/B0009IQZH0/ref=sr_1_2?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1485455013&sr=1-2&keywords=supreme+shine

I just buy all their gallon sized stuff and then reuse my old bottles of spray wax, detailers spray, glass cleaner, wheel bottles, etc. Saves me lots of money, like the difference between $100 now or a couple hundred by next year. For instance their gallon size of glass cleaner is probably enough to set you straight on that for a few years, dilutes 10-1 with distilled water. That's 10 gallons of glass cleaner, put that in an old windex bottle and never run out!

Also the Chemical Guy's bucket kit https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-ACC_101-Detailing-Bucket/dp/B001U522GO was a pretty amazing deal and necessary if you're going to use coin-wash bays. However the mitt included is a bit rough, so instead I use a meguiar's microfiber mitt as its the softest I've found so far. The paint on this car is very soft so it's important to use the softest products possible on the paint.

An Invisible Glass Reach and Clean tool has worked out great for cleaning the interior glass and keeping it from fogging up. Great item to have. https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Glass-Reach-Clean-95161/dp/B0017K69MA

And a bird poop tip, keep a plastic container with microfibers, a bottle of water, and a bottle of last touch / spray wax mix in the trunk or behind passenger seat. If a bird hits the car, just soak microfiber with water, apply for 30 seconds, and then clean with the detailer spray / spray wax.

To prevent corrosion, you're going to want to clean deep into the wheel wells and stuff with dedicated brushes and mitts, and then use an anti corrosion product (I ordered some ACF-50 spray recently, getting it in the mail today probably) https://www.amazon.com/Lear-Chemical-ACF50-Anti-Corrosion-Lubricant/dp/B000P1C8UO . You're going to want to check crevices for salt buildup, it can happen on some of the window trim parts, so it might be necessary to remove them and clean them out if it starts to rust underneath. You might want to use dabs of silicone stuff to prevent water and salt from corroding these spots. There are a few posts about corrosion of FT86club forums so read up on them. Also your cabin air filter, leaves and bugs like to get in your cabin air filter and make things nasty. You can easily check / service this yourself, its behind the glove box.


For maintenance, I would NOT go past 5000 miles on an oil change, and be choosy where you take your oil changes. The car likes running on fresh oil period. Buy a 5 pack of oem oil filters and oem crush washers to keep yourself straight for awhile, saves money and time. Or also a fumoto oil valve can save even more effort, as a DIY'er it made my oil changes the easiest thing to do. Check your tire pressure constantly, because a decrease in pressure will make the car drive like crap and will wear your tires out quickly.

Your 60k mile maintenance or therabouts is an important interval. Needs stuff done like spark plug changes, and probably checking the clutch throwout bearing to see if it has become worn. These are expensive and labor intensive, expect a $1000 bill.

This is similar to the juice and squeegee's I already had.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006RMEFNS/

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01ALLUTD0/

Don't be discouraged. Mistakes are just a touch of character on the model. It's normal to be extra worried about it when starting out. Once you start playing though, you'll quickly realize, everyone has blemishes. Unless you are building your models for a painting competition, or trying to sell them as commissioned work, no one will care about a little extra glue/melted plastic.

Use something like these to apply the glue to help with applying too much. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017YBW5Q4/ Put a little in a on old bottle cap then dab it onto the moddle with the applicator. Does that waste some glue? Absolutely. Do I get cleaner models? You bet.

Models with two arms on the gun can be a pain. One suggestion is to use blue tack instead of glue to get the dry-fit position down. Then you can glue with more confidence. In all honesty though I just dive right in using as little glue as possible. It will still take a few seconds to set, during which you have time to get it in the position you want.

Right here.

今まで海外から買ったものって…

• 本 (東南アジアにいた頃アメリカのAmazonから)
  
• CD
  
• BD, DVD (ジブリ)　← 安い & 日本語トラックは当然あり
  
• ナイフ
  
  他にあったかな
  
  今ならGoogle純正のスマホ + Copperhead OSとかだろうか
  https://copperhead.co/android/store
  …これはこのストアからしか買えなかった
  
  アメリカで激安の製品が日本の『並行輸入品』になるとバカ高くなっていることが極めて多いので、そういうもの（電気製品、クルマ用品など）があればお買い得
  
  例
  
  
• 洗車アイテム5点セット
  Amazon.com: $39.99
  Amazon.co.jp: ¥18,714
  
  
• 紙やすり（ベルトサンダー）を使った刃物研ぎ機
  Amazon.com: $129.95
  Amazon.co.jp: ¥26,020
  
  なお、アメリカの家電は120V前提なので、100V対応しているIT機器などでなければ変圧器が必要
  その場合は容量も確認すること
  旅行用の小さなトランスでは最大出力60W程度だったりする
  1KW以上の大容量が必要なら200V→120Vへ変換したほうがいいかも

Chemical Guys Microfiber Applicators

Griots Garage Microfiber Speed Shine Cloth

Royal Auto Shop & Car wash towels 36 pack

Gummi Pflege Stift

Shurhold Buff Magic Compounding Pad 2 pack

Yacoto Microfiber Chenille Wash Mitt 2 pack

303 Fabric Guard

Invisible Glass 32 Oz - 6 pack

Griots Garage Microfiber and Foam Pad Cleaner

Chemical Guys Foam Cannon and Honeydew cleaner

Optimum No Rinse Wash & Shine 32 oz

Mothers Clay Bar Kit

Sonax Wheel Cleaner Full Effect 169 oz

Griots Garage Microfiber Drying Towel

303 Stain Guard

303 Speed Detailer

Detailer's Choice Leather Chamois

Natural Boar Hair Detail Brush Pack

303 Spray Wax

MATCC 5Pcs White Flannelette Polishing Wheel Cone-Shaped Wheel Grinding Head

Chemical Guys Premium Microfiber Applicators

Really detailing a car that's pretty dirty takes more than 30 minutes so dissolve yourself of that idea from the start. The main tool to get an interior clean will be a wet/dry shop vac (note that the ones that you put quarters in are never wet vacs and you risk shocking yourself silly if you use it that way as well as destroying the surprisingly expensive machine, don't do that). Get yourself a detailing brush (something like this, most auto parts places will have them) and put that in one hand and your vac hose in the other. Get at everything you can. Get as much of the chunks and dust as you can get to.

Work the carpet real good to get as much out of it as you can. There will be lots of sand and crap like that worked in to the fibers. Where you've got seams in the seats, spread them open and vacuum the crud out. Take the floor mats out and vacuum them separately. I usually hit the floor mats with a pressure washer. If you go to one of those self service car washes they usually have clamps on the wall to hang your mats while you blast them and that works really well. Floor mats see a lot of grime though and often times they'll be too far gone to bring back.

Next get a bucket with some hot water and something like Mr. Clean mixed in about 10:1. You'll want a microfiber rag and an old toothbrush. Go over all the hard surfaces paying extra attention to stuff that you touch a lot like the steering wheel, door handles and all the buttons and what not. Use the tooth brush to get into the corners and stuff. For buttons and switches, use the toothbrush mostly dry. Scrub a bit, wipe it clean with the rag and scrub more if needed. Do this where you have lots of light so you can really see what your doing. If you've got things like cup holders with grungy sticky goop in the bottom you can squeeze some soapy water into there, let it sit for a minute then suck it back out with the vac. Move the seats all the way up then all way the back when you're doing this so you can get into everything as much as possible.

If you've got leather, hit all that up with up with a leather cleaner followed by a conditioner. I really like Lexol products for this. They will leave your leather feeling wonderfully supple and smelling like new leather. Follow the instructions on the bottles. It goes apply cleaner per instructions, wipe clean with a damp rag then dry. Apply conditioner per instructions, let it soak in/dry then buff with a clean rag.

Hit all the hard plastic and soft vinyl surfaces with a cleaner/conditioner. I hate Armor All, it leaves everything shiny and greasy/sticky. Dust will be sucked to it like a magnet and it will look cheap and shitty in a few days. The Turtle Wax Ice products are a lot better IMO. It leaves a dry matte finish.

Finally you want to shampoo all the carpets and upholstery. Use the same mix 10:1 mix of water and cleaner, but get a fresh bucket of it. You'll want a stiff bristle scrub brush for this part. Slop a bunch of your soapy water on and scrub the bejesus out of it. Do a single area at a time, like one foot well. Suck as much of the water back out as you can with the vac. If you've got fabric seats, hit those up as well but don't get them so wet, they'll soak up a lot of water and make your butt wet for a while every time you get in the car if you go overboard. When you're all done with this, park the car in the sun with the windows open just a crack to bake the moisture out.

The last step is cleaning the windows real good. A good cleaner makes all the difference here. Stoner's Invisible Glass is the best I've found. If you've got a lot film on the glass, it can be helpful to start with straight isopropyl alcohol to cut through that. Use a paper towel for the initial grime. Finish with the glass cleaner and a lint free cotton towel (old dress shirts are great for this). Make sure you get all the way to the corners of the glass. Roll the windows down a couple inches and get the part at the top that's against the seal. I usually buff up all the shiny surfaces with this last step (gauge faces, radio display, mirrors, door handles, etc.).

Phew. So that's the interior. I'll leave the exterior for some one else (one tip though, Bar Keepers Friend and Magic Eraser sponges work wonders on wheels). Detailing is aptly named. It's all about paying attention the little stuff. To do a full interior on moderately neglected sedan sized car will probably take you about 4 hours. A pro can do it in half that. A minivan or SUV coated in child slime will be double that. If your fingers and back are sore the next day, you probably did it right.

I use this wheel cleaner


Adam's Deep Wheel Cleaner 16oz - Tough on Brake Dust, Gentle On Wheels - Changes Color As It Works https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BPGGSCW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_0I8hDb0VR153A

With this brush

Chemical Guys ACC_G08 Short... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N8RHDPW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

And this woolie


Adam's Wheel Woolie - Wool Fibers... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008I58BAA?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Mine aren’t coated yet but this stuff works great.

Last time I posted an Amazon link the post got taken down.

This is the one I get. Looks like they raised the price:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GR7L47V/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here it is in a kit with 5 detailing brushes:

https://www.amazon.com/Fitosy-Bristle-Different-Detailing-Interior/dp/B0816ZSKJZ/ref=pd_sbs_263_8?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0816ZSKJZ&pd_rd_r=4f232b83-d023-4691-9569-d4138e2971b0&pd_rd_w=zd2BS&pd_rd_wg=thjlx&pf_rd_p=5873ae95-9063-4a23-9b7e-eafa738c2269&pf_rd_r=XNR4JJ5PXMDQGMH6S5EM&psc=1&refRID=XNR4JJ5PXMDQGMH6S5EM

If it gets removed again I will just PM you.

I usually stop around 3-4:00 PM and figure out where I want to stop that night, then call ahead if I'm getting a hotel room and make a reservation somewhere. You can also read-up on camping on BLM or NFS lands, either campgrounds or remote. State parks also may have campgrounds.

I carry a tire plug kit. This will save you massive amounts of time if you get a flat in a remote area. Watch a few youtube videos if you've never used one and you should be fine.

I also carry a small 12v cigarette-lighter-powered air compressor for reinflating the tire, and a tire pressure gauge because I don't trust the ones on the cheap pumps.

If you are going to travel through remote areas in the west always carry some food and water.

Buy one of those sponges with the nylon netting on the outside or a loofah or one of these. You'll probably want to clean the windshield of dead bugs more often than just when you get gas. Bring a jug of water to assist. Carry an extra jug of wiper fluid.

Research the historical day/night temperatures if you will be traveling in the inter-mountain west. It can actually get quite cold at night if you're camping. Pack appropriate clothing. Monsoon season in the desert southwest can go to early October. Assume you might get rained-on a bit.

Check state DOT websites for conditions ahead at high mountain passes in the Rockies and the Sierras. Some of them start closing due to snow by mid-September.

If you are going to more than two or three national parks buy the annual pass for $80 at the first park you go to. It will pay for itself several times over.

IMHO carrying a bunch of spare parts or tools is overkill but a spare headlamp bulb and a package of assorted zip ties aren't a bad investment. Make sure your brakes are in good condition before you leave if you are driving in mountain areas.

I carry a paper road atlas as I find it useful for longer-distance planning than zooming in/out on an ipad or phone. You can get Rand McNally Road atlasses near the checkouts at a lot of Walmarts.

You'll find that the octane levels of gasoline sold at high altitudes is a few points lower than at sea level. Using 85 octane in a car that usually uses 87 is fine, etc.. Pay attention to the labeling on the pumps elsewhere. At certain places in the Midwest gas stations sell high-ethanol mixes that are inappropriate for non flex-fuel cars. They will still sell the regular stuff, just pay attention to the labels.

Know that this sign means that you can come upon cows standing in the road at any time. Avoid driving these roads at night, or at least keep the speed down and be prepared.

I'm fairly new, myself. I've driven clunkers most of my life. Spent about five years downtown where I didn't have a car. Now I'm back in suburbia, so I've got a brand new GTI, and it's the first one I've ever cared to take good care of. Here's what I started with:

• Meguiar's D101 APC - the D103 APC+ has apparently been discontinued.
  
• Two Chemical Guys detailing bucket kits, which each have a bucket, lid, grit guard, 16oz citrus wash, and some washing pad thing I didn't really want.
  
• Two-pack of Rag Company Dry Me a River towels
  
• Five-pack of Rag Company detailing towels
  
• Bottle of Stoner Invisible Glass
  
• Two-pack of Griot's Garage microfiber wash mitts
  
• A Nanoskin wash mitt
  
• 32oz Optimum No Rinse Wash and Wax - for use as a quick detailer and easy maintenance washing.
  
• Lexol leather care kit
  
• Thee-pack of spray bottles
  
• A microfiber window towel
  
• A cheap electric blower
  
• 16oz Chemical Guys Jetseal
  
• Microfiber applicators
  
  I should have picked up some of Chemical Guys' citrus wash and clear, too, to help deal with a winter's worth of grime left by terrible touchless car washes. I've also got a tire brush, hand vacuum, and some assorted cheap microfiber towels around already.
  
  Your kit looks a lot more cost-effective, though. Throw in some cheap buckets, grit guards, wash mitts, and drying towel, and an extra stack of cheap microfibers and you're still under $100 for practically everything you would need for a proper two-bucket wash and wax.

Holy shit these are the exact ones I was looking for at on another detailing website but couldn't find them on Amazon. Thank you! I agree that I don't think I need that many options, so I might just pick up two of these but I'm not crazy about the metal band over the plastic band for possible scratch situations.

Something like this.

It's longer and softer so to me that means it's safer. I try and use a plush microfiber too so it can absorb more water as it pushes the snow off.

I use ONR. I clean the jams the same way I clean the rest of the car:

​

(1) Spray the area with the water / ONR mix you created

(2) Clean with microfiber mitt dunked in ONR mix

(3) Dry with microfiber towel and opti-seal

​

By the time I get to wheels my bucket is only half full, so I'll refill and add another cap of ONR to replenish. Then, I do the following:

​

(1) Spray the wheels (surface, tires and inside the cavity)

(2) Use this wheel brush to do one cavity of the wheel at a time (keep dunking in the bucket after each cavity): https://www.amazon.com/TAKAVU-Detailing-Bristle-Multipurpose-Motorcycles/dp/B071VRJRKK/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=wheel+brush&qid=1556569158&s=gateway&sr=8-3

(3) After you're done using the brush, use a microfiber mitt dunked in ONR to go over the wheel as much as you can by hand

(4) Dry with microfiber towel and opti-seal

​

Lastly for tires, I don't really "wash" them. The ONR spray will have taken some of the dirt off when I was doing the wheels. What I do instead is use tire shine spray and wipe off the excess with a dedicated microfiber towel that's only used for tires.

You can also get vinyl application squeegees for cheap that help get air bubbles out.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ALLUTD0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_nrvXCbNY8ZX89

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017YBW5Q4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Comet and this scrub brush drill attachment.

I would recommend your own wheel brush The brush there at the bay will produce swirls, however I would be more concerned about possible scratches due to large debris that could be caught in the brush. When you bring your own you know exactly how clean it is.

What kind of car do you have? Does it produce a lot of brake dust? Is there a lot of black dust that collects on your wheels? If you don't have a high performance car, Sonax might be overkill. I had a 2011 Camaro V6 and it produced literally no brake dust, so I got away with just car shampoo for my wheels. I traded that car for my current 2016 Camaro SS and the Brembo brakes produced a ton of brake dust that required a dedicated cleaner to really lift that stuff off the wheels. I swapped out the brake pads for ceramic carbon pads and now I'm back to using shampoo. It's waaaaay cheaper, smells a lot better, and my wheels stay cleaner. If you don't have brakes that produce a ton of brake dust, I would skip the wheel cleaner. Iron is the main culprit with brake dust and why you want to use something like Sonax.

this

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009PCPNQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and these

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GJ3EJS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

worked pretty well for me

What I used:

Mothers Microfiber Performance Drying Towel.

AmazonBasics Microfiber Cleaning Cloth, (Pack of 24).

Chemical Guys MIC_701_01 - Glass and Window Waffle Weave Towel.

Stoner 92164 Invisible Glass for Window, Windshield and Mirror Cleaner.

Rain-X 800002243 Glass Treatment.

Griot's Garage 10268 Micro Fiber Wash Mitt.

Optimum (NR2010Q) No Rinse Wash & Shine.

Eagle One 665854 All Wheel and Tire Cleaner.

Mothers Wheel Brush.

Mothers 10324 Reflections Tire Care.

Chemical Guys ACC_300_2 - Durafoam Contoured Large Tire Dressing Applicator Pad.

Meguiar's G14422 Ultimate Quik Detailer.

303 Products 30350 Aerospace Protectant.

Black & Decker CHV1510 Dustbuster 15.6-Volt Cordless Cyclonic Hand Vacuum.

(I live in an apartment complex... otherwise I'd probably get a shop vac).

Two 5 gallon buckets.

2 of The Grit Guard Inserts.

This is the gun, but it's way overpriced by itself. https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-EQP_312-Professional-Honeydew/dp/B00J5BUZIM/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=chemical%2Bguys%2Bfoam%2Bcannon%2Bkit&qid=1568080479&s=gateway&sprefix=chemical%2Bguys%2Bfoam%2Bcannon&sr=8-4&th=1&psc=1

I got it as part of this kit:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07PGQTNR6?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Chemical Guys EQP_312 TORQ Professional Foam Cannon and Honeydew Snow Foam Cleanser (1 Gal) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OA66IG0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_pV-CDb69VE52P

Bottle is a different shape but same brand
This link is a package offer with the soap. Some say u can get a cheap bottle from amazon and get the same results but some argue you cant. Just make sure you soap mixture is correct and the nozzle is adjusted correctly. Takes some experimenting.

For the rust removal, glue sandpaper to the eraser of a #2 pencil then use an X-Acto knife and trim to fit.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xi3xmeO6C4

I've used Dr. Color Chip to successfully touch up along door edges. For this type of touch up I would recommend using a small applicator brush like this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017YBW5Q4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

If you wanna keep it under $30 and want a very basic method of keeping your car clean then I would recommend the tried and true 2-Bucket Wash method.

1. 2 x 5-gallon buckets (Lowes or Home Depot) - $2/bucket
   
2. 2 x GritGuards - $17
   
3. 2 x MicroFiber Wash Mitts - $15
   
4. Meguiar's Golf Class Car Wash Shampoo - $10
   
   TOTAL: $45ish
   
   I know that $45 is over your budget of $30, but I highly recommend using the 2-bucket wash method. You can get away with using 1 grit guard and 1 wash mitt if you want to cut a little bit on cost. You could also buy a smaller size of car wash shampoo... this may get you closer to budget.
   
   The reason I buy 2 grit guards is to use 1 in each bucket. You can buy only 1 and use it in the rinse water bucket for when you rinse your mitt.
   
   You can also get away with having 1 wash mitt and look at different brands. I personally use 2 (one for upper half, one for lower half) to reduce contamination.
   
   ---
   
   If you want to expand later on to go beyond cleaning the car... then you can put some money into additional products. You will want to look into wheel brushes, all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaners, detail sprays, waxes, etc.
   
   Once you start, you cannot stop!

the main shaft looks proprietary, but the end connector, where the worx twist end piece is, is standard pressure connector. just disconnect the adapter and put practically any standard connector on (I say any, I've not checked all, but the ones I have work, including a briggs and stratton "turbo nozzle").

the foam cannon I use is

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZOT9NNW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm not a big fan of the bottle, but it works. it doesn't put out as much foam with the worx as it does with my gas powered pressure washer (1800 psi vs 320 psi) but it does put out enough I think.

I have a tooth brush and I also use the mothers detailing brushes for when the ones you linked don't seem to be stiff enough. I let all the female friends I know that are way into makeup that anytime they replace their makeup brush give them to me. Found them to be great for removing gunk from steering wheel buttons and really tight spaces and applying protection to vents and other small areas my fingers are too fat to fit into.

https://www.amazon.com/Mothers-Detail-Brush-Set-Pack/dp/B001GJ3EJS/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1500212458&sr=8-5&keywords=mothers+detailing

Professionally, I'd still recommend the chemical guys foam lance: http://amzn.to/1jW66PA It's amazing to use and really cover the whole car in foam. Clients love to see this stuff. lol But if you want a hobbyist's foam gun the gilmour will do just fine for half the price of a foam lance: http://amzn.to/1lXwutV

Yeah, Meg's will work wonders if your technique is solid. Get something to agitate the fibers. If you have a drill, I'd highly recommend a drill brush for that. Your vacuum is powerful enough to do it, you just need to loosen the grime from the fibers and then vacuum it up. Assess and test. Try the least involved process first. If just agitating and wiping with a towel is fine, then that's all you need to do. Otherwise, move it up and do another "pass", but suck up the liquid with the vacuum while rinsing until the suds are gone.

For sealants/protection, use 303 Aerospace Protectant on the plastics, and I'm currently looking into a good textile sealant. 303 Fabric Guard and similar should be fine as long as you follow the directions. I'm going to guess that all of those products use the same technology to repel water (off-gassing), so even Scotchgard would do the job.

Correct! I usually just use liberal amounts of saran wrap since the water spray is low pressure. You can sometimes find the Mr Clean car wash system for cheap at Big Lots or the like for $5. It has an anti-spotting formula that makes cleaning extra easy. But it's hardly the best thing out there, so don't spend much money on it.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GJ3E2K/ref=wms_ohs_product
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GJ3EJS/ref=wms_ohs_product
used those brushes on my VMR v710's and worked pretty well.

You can buy them separately, but it's just not the same…

They look like this.

Could use something like this to make it a little easier.

FYI
Auto geek has the Meguiar Bottle's for $4.00 a piece + 15% coupon so it's cheaper to order from them. I have the same bottles and love em.

As far as the Tolco sprayer you're absolutely right THESE see to be the best value for the actual sprayer nozzle, as for bottles I haven't been able to find anything that will resemble THIS setup when complete. Any ideas?

The foam cannon and a large bottle of Honeydew is $93, and it's awesome. You'll need a pressure washer.

I'm not sure what barrels are on wheels, but I clean my wheels with this.

So this one?

https://www.amazon.com/Mothers-155700-Wheel-Brush/dp/B001GJ3DZS
https://www.amazon.com/Mothers-Detail-Brush-Set-Pack/dp/B001GJ3EJS

and this

https://www.amazon.com/Omega-17181616-Speed-Master-Wheel/dp/B00E9E76F0

Why do you like this one better than say

https://www.amazon.com/EZ-Detail-3001-BP-Brush-Mini/dp/B007UTN60K

I know its almost always just what someone has or bought but figured I would ask. Thanks for the recommendations.

I am using the Simple Chuck-Double Chuck from CR Spotless for deionized water. Pricing in links below.
I used to use bottled distilled water when I was using ONR in a bucket. Not workable in a pressure washer with Snow Foam .

All the product links used in the video below: (copied links from YouTube description)
Tesla Car Wash !!! https://youtu.be/ucPdDJuQ8AQ

EQUIPMENT:
Sun Joe SPX4001 2030 PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5 Amp Electric Pressure Washer w/ Pressure Select Technology & Hose Reel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NBV3LPV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_h74uCbXEB81HB

Sun Joe SPX-UQC Universal Brass/Aluminum Pressure Washer Garden Hose Quick-Connect Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HH3V1Z0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.74uCbWV6TH05

McKillans Foam Cannon Professional Grade Adjustable Lance Pressure Washer Jet Wash with 1/4” Quick Connector https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D6KPV3G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GN5uCbG88X0C2

Extra Bonus! Includes 3 Additional Filters - Metro Vac Revolution W/ 30 Ft Hose - Model MB-3CD SWB - 30 - Air Force Master Blaster Car & Motorcycle Air Dryer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0711L4Y6F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_IS5uCbZ4QRY1C

https://simplechuck.com/

Amazon:
Double Chuck https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072QRNWY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5m5uCbRTN1SPV

https://www.autogeek.net/ps-beadmaker-sprayer.html?productid=ps-beadmaker-sprayer&channelid=FROOG&utm_source=CSEs&utm_medium=GoogleProductSearch&utm_campaign=CSE&utm_campaign=1504990722&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=287205172222&utm_term=&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIzafHqKCb4AIVARx9Ch2RlwD6EAQYByABEgJcZvD_BwE


CHEMICALS:
Chemical Guys CWS_110 Honeydew Snow Foam Car Wash Soap and Cleanser (1 Gal) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009OTW646/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_594uCbGY470D2

https://www.theragcompany.com/p-s-bead-maker-paint-protectant-gallon-128-oz/

Optimum (NR2010G) No Rinse Wash & Shine - 1 Gallon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GG9FK2M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RE5uCbVH68G0R

Hope's Perfect Glass Cleaner, 2 Piece, 32 Oz. Spray Bottle and 64 Oz. Refill Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ALK3I52/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_bI5uCbW6A0HWF

Chemical Guys CWS_201 Microfiber Wash Cleaning Detergent Concentrate (1 Gal) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001W91J8K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_9K5uCbQSX7V7A

OTHER SUPPLIES:
https://www.theragcompany.com/value-bundle-cyclone-wash-mitt-premium-korean-microfiber-2-pack/

https://www.theragcompany.com/value-bundle-eagle-edgeless-600-16-x-16-towel-grey-5-pack/

https://www.theragcompany.com/value-bundle-16-x-16-creature-edgeless-dual-pile-towel-5-pack/

https://www.theragcompany.com/value-bundle-16-x-24-eagle-edgeless-500-microfiber-towels-3-pack/

Similar Wheel Brush
AmazonBasics Wheel Brush, Long Handle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073P7FSW5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ml5uCb5R63RHP

Quik Shot - 16 Ounce Plastic Flask with a Built-in 1 Ounce Shot Glass Chamber https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RM5FI5I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_STjvCb7H18HTF

This is what I use, and what I use on my car. Do your research first. These may or may not work with your vehicle.

Car Wash Soap: Meguiar's Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo & Conditioner

Clay Kit: Meguiar's G1016 Smooth Surface Clay Kit, In my experience, this clay is pretty mild, but I don't need anything stronger. I've seen very good reviews for the Mothers clay bar kit also.

Wax: Meguiar's G18211 Ultimate Paste Wax

Spray Wax: Meguiar's G17516 Ultimate Quik Wax (after every wash, in-between actual waxing)

Quick Detailer: Meguiar's G14422 Ultimate Quik Detailer (for door jambs, dust etc.)

Leather Care: I have heard very good things about Leatherique, I have also used Lexol in the past with good results

As for interior cleaner, it really just depends. Do a little research, Meguiar's has a line of interior cleaners, although I haven't tried them.

Glass Cleaner: Invisible Glass Premium Glass Cleaner

As for wheels cleaners, I use a soft sponge and the car wash soap. It does an excellent job without using harsh chemicals that spray onto the brakes.
I personally have not found a tire shine I feel safe using, although I have not done much research into looking for a product for that.

House attachment: If you have a pressure washer safe for paint, this foam cannon seems decent. http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-EQP_310-Professional-Cannon/dp/B00J5BUZIM/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1462673090&sr=8-6&keywords=foam+cannon
I personally use this: http://www.harborfreight.com/car-wash-nozzle-60773.html
My pressure washer is too high of pressure for my paint, and I don't feel like lugging it out every time I wash my car. So I go to my coin operated wash bay, pay the $2, and use only the rinse option. I come back and start my wash process.

If you have any more questions, let me know. The wiki does help, but sometimes I feel lost and overwhelmed looking at it.

The reason why I hate glossy black plastic. I only did the inserts on the doors and the 2 little ones behind the steering wheel.

I used the heat gun to heat up the edges of the inserts to soften them a bit, so the wrap could be pushed up and behind using the squeegee. You'll need to use a razer to cut the wrap by the door handle though.


Buy extra wrapping and take your time. Or pay someone to do them lol.

Gunmetal grey wrap

Heat gun


Squeegee

For a wheel brush to reach inside the rim, I have something similar to this: https://www.amazon.com/Fitosy-Bristle-Detailing-Motorcycles-Scratches/dp/B07GR7L47V/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=wheel+brush&qid=1567622101&s=gateway&sr=8-6

To clean the outside of the rims, I have these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CWBDBFU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

I use the big brush, and the smaller ones I use inside the car. Works well in my opinion.

Thanks! Yes, I'm using this combo: https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-EQP_312-Professional-Honeydew/dp/B00OA66IG0

Use one of these for the final rinse

https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Clean-AutoDry-System-Starter/dp/B0006M56CE

hmm. I bought a brush that was cheaper than the one listed in the wiki but it is definitely described as a detailing brush that wont dissolve. The bristles don't come out but simply lay down, like 90 degree angle lay down. I cant get good leverage to clean.

http://www.amazon.com/Automotive-Cleaning-Solvent-Resistant-Bristles/dp/B0013HJDOI?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

I bought a Chemical Guys spray bottle from Amazon. The sprayer has something that rattles inside, sounds like a tiny ball or something. If I take the sprayer and shake it, it's pretty obvious. Is this normal?

this is what I'm looking at:

cannon

washer

wash mits

adams kit 1

adams kit 2

adams applicator

I figure this setup will get me a few good washes under my belt before I need to buy more shampoo and detail. This puts me around $400, anything I'm missing?

For the face most of the wheel and lug nuts I use this brush. Use the end of it and the brush will clean lug nuts just fine andbcut down on the amount of tools/brushes you need.

Chemical Guys ACC_G09 Body and Wheel Flagged Tip Short Handle Brush https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BCH51ZO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_A83QJG9fYTDut

For the barrels I use the speedmaster longer brush to get what the first brush couldn't.

I use mckees tire and rubber rejuvinator to clean the tires and either adams vrt or mckees tire coating to dress them depending on what is wanted.

For tires and wheels:

Not a fan of most of their products, but this is solid for the money: https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-Acc_G08-Wheel-Handle/dp/B00N8RHDPW/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=chemical+guys+wheel+and+tire+brush&qid=1565014984&s=gateway&sr=8-3

A while ago I bought one of these: https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Clean-AutoDry-System-Starter/dp/B0006M56CE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1501438127&sr=8-1&keywords=mr+clean+car+wash

It has a water filter which removes a lot of the hard minerals. After rinsing the car, I rinse again with the filtered water.

And don't forget the standard stuff - make sure your car is not in direct sunlight and not hot to the touch when you spray water on it, and dry quickly afterwards. Also, a good waxing will help keep spots from forming.

Do you have wide spaces in your wheels? I think I just need to bite the built and get one of those speed brushes can I have a lot of tiny holes my wide face brush cant reach. I bought this thing and it was still a struggle for the small stuff.

i use one of these

http://www.chemicalguys.com/Microfiber_Wheel_Wedge_Rim_Detailer_p/mic_403.htm

and these

https://www.amazon.com/Lisle-14000-Parts-Cleaning-Brush/dp/B0009OMYDS

Touchup brushes like this are great for cleaning up messes like this

https://www.amazon.com/ABN-Fine-Point-Disposable-Brush-Applicator/dp/B017YBW5Q4/ref=pd_sbs_263_t_2/133-8810105-4050110?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B017YBW5Q4&pd_rd_r=75b00203-a950-4d44-94a0-a1d4ae39093d&pd_rd_w=OzSNQ&pd_rd_wg=djNRW&pf_rd_p=5cfcfe89-300f-47d2-b1ad-a4e27203a02a&pf_rd_r=FZV62SPEEFBACHSBTQYJ&psc=1&refRID=FZV62SPEEFBACHSBTQYJ

So basically this

Edit: did you use a pressure washer? and which one?

Disassembled and let them soak in the 50/50 mix for a while, then used a parts washing brush and scrubbed.

I use one of these. Works well dry with or without the keys, then spray it down with some Lysol cleaner and do it again.


https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-ACC_G09-Flagged-Handle/dp/B00BCH51ZO/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1506561074&sr=8-6&keywords=CHEMICAL+GUYS+WHEEL+BRUSH

Recently got this one and it works great with the sun joe!

McKillans Foam Cannon... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D6KPV3G

No experience with others but happy with these results.

TAKAVU Master Wheel Brush - $13.99

Beautiful rims. This helps to keep the inside of those babies clean.