Detailing Training Series: Episode 207

Introduction

• Last episode of the 200 series
• Previous episodes: 201 - 206
• Concept: Live to tape full-length episode
• Operating with minimal breaks
• Various cameras and crew involved
• Location: Drive Customs
• Objective: Teach polishing techniques and mechanics

Filming Location & Vehicle

• Drive Customs: Specializes in upfitting police cars and competition car audio
• Vehicle: 2013 red Accord (previously at SEMA)
• Plan: Use Meredith (some polishing experience) to learn alongside professionals

Objectives and Techniques

• Focus on polishing techniques for daily drivers
• Not aimed at perfection but learning contours, pressure, and machine usage
• Meredith's goal: Protect and improve daily driver without aiming for show-quality
• Kevin Brown's containment system

Walkthrough and Inspection

• Detailed vehicle inspection: Identifying swirls, scratches, and defects
• Use of tape to mark and avoid problem areas
• Importance of light for detail inspection
• Claying and wiping down the vehicle

Equipment and Setup

• Tools: Flex 15mm & 21mm cordless, 3-inch, and rotary polishers
• Pads: Variety of foam and microfiber pads for different tasks
• Setup with cameras, DP, and containment system

Techniques in Detail

Test Panel

• Purpose: Determine paint hardness, defect removal rate, and porosity
• Initial test: Hand application to clean and check defects
• Discussion with Jason Rose on phone
• Single one-way pass test for technique assessment
• Adjustments: Speed, pressure, pad type, and polish amount

Practical Application & Learning Curve

• Meredith tries different machines for various panels and edges
• Importance of pad control, speed adjustments, and cleaning
• Kevin's hands-on guidance to correct technique
• Practical challenges: Handling curves, edges, and corners

Additional Insights

• Handling taping: Avoid damaging paint and rubber residue transfer in pads
• Cleaning and residue control: Key in maintaining pad effectiveness
• Expansion and contraction: Heat effects on paint and why allowing panels to rest is crucial
• Water spritizing: Correct and incorrect usage

Reflections and Key Takeaways

• Training recap: Importance of technique over perfection
• Going back to re-watch and learn: Deep dive into sections for better understanding
• Enjoyment in detailing: Keep stress minimal and find joy in the craft

Tools & Equipment Debrief

• List of tools used in the series and rationale behind each
• Techniques for managing cables and avoiding contamination

Final Remarks

• Aim for protection and satisfaction as per customer expectations
• Spend more time on technique learning rather than aiming for perfection
• Open to feedback and future series: Potential for 300 and 400 series
• Thanks to viewers, Kevin Brown, and the entire team for support and interaction

Useful Resources

• More training videos and blog posts on AMMONYC
• Kevin Brown’s detailed insights at Buff Daddy
• Contact: Larry at larry@ammonyc.com

Feel free to revisit specific sections, practice on test panels, and enjoy the process of detailing!