The Detailers Cafe

General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Too Stroked on March 17, 2021, 06:21:07 PM

Title: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 17, 2021, 06:21:07 PM
You folks have probably seen my posts in my thread on 3D One where I (eventually) started talking more and more about my adventures in detailing used cars for a mid-sized new car dealership I work for. I figured it was time I just start a separate thread on that very subject so you can see what I run into on a daily basis.

So let's start off with today's disaster. We normally don't put older cars and / or cars with a lot of miles on them on our lot. But every once in a while they like to put something "value priced" out there and you can guess what that means. Today I got handed a 2015 Highlander with 128,000 miles on it. The goal? Make it look as good as possible after it had gone through the shop for mechanical work. Oh, and did I mention that the previous owner must have had a dog? How's this for a 3rd row seat floor area:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1800%5B1%5D.JPG)

To give yo a better idea, here's the carpeted floor mats from the 2nd and 3rd rows showing before and after conditions. That's my special rubber doggie hair brush in the middle.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1801%5B1%5D.JPG)

And here's an "after" shot of that 3rd row floor:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1802%5B1%5D.JPG)

Was it fun? No. In fact if you remember, I'm on a flat rate plan for detailing. I'm losing my ass on this car. All I have left is the front seats and floor for tomorrow. I'll try to post pics - if I have the strength.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 17, 2021, 06:47:24 PM
You folks have probably seen my posts in my thread on 3D One where I (eventually) started talking more and more about my adventures in detailing used cars for a mid-sized new car dealership I work for. I figured it was time I just start a separate thread on that very subject so you can see what I run into on a daily basis.

So let's start off with today's disaster. We normally don't put older cars and / or cars with a lot of miles on them on our lot. But every once in a while they like to put something "value priced" out there and you can guess what that means. Today I got handed a 2015 Highlander with 128,000 miles on it. The goal? Make it look as good as possible after it had gone through the shop for mechanical work. Oh, and did I mention that the previous owner must have had a dog? How's this for a 3rd row seat floor area:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1800%5B1%5D.JPG)

To give yo a better idea, here's the carpeted floor mats from the 2nd and 3rd rows showing before and after conditions. That's my special rubber doggie hair brush in the middle.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1801%5B1%5D.JPG)

And here's an "after" shot of that 3rd row floor:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1802%5B1%5D.JPG)

Was it fun? No. In fact if you remember, I'm on a flat rate plan for detailing. I'm losing my ass on this car. All I have left is the front seats and floor for tomorrow. I'll try to post pics - if I have the strength.
Those after photos are so satisfying.  Haha.  Gives me the warm and fuzzies. 

I had one of those brushes.  Mine was blue.  Lost it in the move to my house some years ago.  I suspect my mom stole it. 


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Blown F-150 on March 17, 2021, 10:11:00 PM
Wow, that is one heck of a turn around. I  don't think I ever posted pics of my Uncles 2017 F150 that I did. Kinda reminds me of that.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on March 18, 2021, 09:37:11 AM
Oh, and did I mention that the previous owner must have had a dog? How's this for a 3rd row seat floor area:
I guess I have too much care for my items ( and reputation ) but how could someone trade in a 2015 that looked like that.
It is not off lease ( maybe 6 years old ), did not think the dealership was going to hammer them for it being filthy ?
- Maybe it has changed, and all vehicles are considered filthy...
I am not expecting front line ready out of a vehicle but there is something inbetween.

Was it fun? No. In fact if you remember, I'm on a flat rate plan for detailing. I'm losing my ass on this car.
You need to talk with them about a bump for "value priced" details.
- As in 1.75 x normal rate...
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 18, 2021, 02:07:43 PM
Here's today's 5 hour ordeal - I mean detail. It's a 2018 RAV4 with just over 40,000 on the clock. I can personally assure you that the interior was never, ever vacuumed or cleaned in any way. And don't even ask me what I found under the back seat. Most of it came out though.

Before:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1809%5B1%5D.JPG)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1810%5B1%5D.JPG)

After:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1813%5B1%5D.JPG)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1811%5B1%5D.JPG)

And no, whatever those spots are on the back seat, they're burned right in there, so they're not coming out.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1814%5B1%5D.JPG)

I just hope tomorrow brings a better candidate or two.  And if you're counting, I lost my ass on this one too.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 18, 2021, 03:05:24 PM
Here's today's 5 hour ordeal - I mean detail. It's a 2018 RAV4 with just over 40,000 on the clock. I can personally assure you that the interior was never, ever vacuumed or cleaned in any way. And don't even ask me what I found under the back seat. Most of it came out though.

Before:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1809%5B1%5D.JPG)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1810%5B1%5D.JPG)

After:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1813%5B1%5D.JPG)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1811%5B1%5D.JPG)

And no, whatever those spots are on the back seat, they're burned right in there, so they're not coming out.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1814%5B1%5D.JPG)

I just hope tomorrow brings a better candidate or two.  And if you're counting, I lost my ass on this one too.
What the hell is still on that back seat?  Are those holes or what?


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 18, 2021, 04:03:48 PM
Not holes, but damn close for the big one. Something burned half way through the fabric. I tried everything I had to get the other white spots out including my extractor. Nope, not budging.   :die:
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: gesfour on March 19, 2021, 08:29:10 AM
Those cars are absolutely disgusting.  How do people live like that??

A few years ago I traded in a car with a dealer I had been buying cars from for quite some time.  The sale guy called me the next day laughing because he had sent my old car to the detail shop so it could be put on the lot.  Guys looked at, brought it back around front, and told him it was already cleaner than anything new on the lot. 
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 19, 2021, 11:46:48 AM
Those cars are absolutely disgusting.  How do people live like that??

A few years ago I traded in a car with a dealer I had been buying cars from for quite some time.  The sale guy called me the next day laughing because he had sent my old car to the detail shop so it could be put on the lot.  Guys looked at, brought it back around front, and told him it was already cleaner than anything new on the lot.
Having seen your cars, I can agree 100% with that. So, how about coming over any buying a Toyota next time?  :redneck:
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Blown F-150 on March 19, 2021, 04:37:23 PM
Those cars are absolutely disgusting.  How do people live like that??

A few years ago I traded in a car with a dealer I had been buying cars from for quite some time.  The sale guy called me the next day laughing because he had sent my old car to the detail shop so it could be put on the lot.  Guys looked at, brought it back around front, and told him it was already cleaner than anything new on the lot.
Lol, my cousin said the same thing when we brought him the X5 on Wednesday. They literally drove it over to the used car lot and parked it.


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 19, 2021, 05:36:09 PM
Not everything I detail is a roach. In fact every once in a while, I get something special. The other day, a 2015 Camry rolled into my bay with only 24,000 miles on it. The thing was damn near perfect! After just under 3 hours of detailing, it looked even better. Just 4 little dents that our PDR guy easily took care of. I don't think the back seat ever had anyone sit in it. Amazing!

While I was detailing it, I kept thinking that this thing had to be a little old lady's car. Finally, when I cleaned out the glove box, I found the insurance car with the pervious owner's name on it. Think somebody with a first name like Dolores might be a little old lady? She sure know how to take care of her car!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1782%5B1%5D(1).JPG)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1779%5B1%5D(1).JPG)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1778%5B1%5D.JPG)
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 19, 2021, 05:44:06 PM
I definitely detail more RAV4's than any other vehicle. It's Toyota's best selling model, so it makes sense. That also means I get a wide variety of RAV4's from ones like that dark blue one I did earlier this week to the one I did today. The dark blue one was a 2018. So was today's detail. The dark blue one had around 40,000 miles on it. This one had almost 75,000 miles on it. The blue one was a roach. This one was amazingly well cared for. Oh, and this one was one of my favorite colors - pearl white. Think this will last long on the lot?

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1816%5B1%5D.JPG)

Oh look. That's the blue one behind it. Must be hiding.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 19, 2021, 07:02:46 PM
Remember the "dog hair Highlander" from a few days ago? I finally remembered to post up a shot of the finished exterior. Remember, this one's got 128,000 miles on it.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1806%5B1%5D.JPG)
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 20, 2021, 04:53:34 PM
With all the awesome work you’re doing, it looks like used Rav 4s are going to be Toyota’s second best selling vehicle.  I’m sure they’re flying off the lot when you get done with them.  I’m glad I’m not in the market for a vehicle that you detail because I couldn’t afford the premium they’re bound to fetch.


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 20, 2021, 06:33:43 PM
With all the awesome work you’re doing, it looks like used Rav 4s are going to be Toyota’s second best selling vehicle.  I’m sure they’re flying off the lot when you get done with them.  I’m glad I’m not in the market for a vehicle that you detail because I couldn’t afford the premium they’re bound to fetch.


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Thanks for the kind words Mike! I'm coming to the conclusion that I need to have a serious conversation with some folks up the food chain on compensation. I just dread this type of conversation though.
Title: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 20, 2021, 06:40:03 PM
With all the awesome work you’re doing, it looks like used Rav 4s are going to be Toyota’s second best selling vehicle.  I’m sure they’re flying off the lot when you get done with them.  I’m glad I’m not in the market for a vehicle that you detail because I couldn’t afford the premium they’re bound to fetch.


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Thanks for the kind words Mike! I'm coming to the conclusion that I need to have a serious conversation with some folks up the food chain on compensation. I just dread this type of conversation though.
You need us to make a call from a rival dealership to try to buy your services for a higher price?  We can create a bidding war and let your dealership “win.”


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: gesfour on March 22, 2021, 08:15:31 AM
Those cars are absolutely disgusting.  How do people live like that??

A few years ago I traded in a car with a dealer I had been buying cars from for quite some time.  The sale guy called me the next day laughing because he had sent my old car to the detail shop so it could be put on the lot.  Guys looked at, brought it back around front, and told him it was already cleaner than anything new on the lot.
Having seen your cars, I can agree 100% with that. So, how about coming over any buying a Toyota next time?  :redneck:

I do like the Sequoias!  :redneck:

When I take our cars in for service these days the service advisors automatically writes "no wash" on the key tag before I'm even in the door. 
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Rollingrock on March 24, 2021, 09:36:03 AM
Man Tom, if anything you are Dr. Consistency of awesome.   

Great thread and great results.   I never understand how people use their cars as trash cans.   

JP
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 24, 2021, 10:11:27 AM
Man, I should show you guys what the work trucks look like.  I just had this conversation with my boss yesterday.  He was pissed off because he took one of the trucks for inspection and it was trashed inside.  We have three trucks that run regularly and two are trashed.  Want to guess who drives the one that’s not?  If I remember I will take a few photos or a video tomorrow. 


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 24, 2021, 03:23:10 PM
Man Tom, if anything you are Dr. Consistency of awesome.   

Great thread and great results.   I never understand how people use their cars as trash cans.   

JP

Aw, thanks JP.  :dunno:
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 24, 2021, 07:24:38 PM
Tom, what are you doing for your clay step?  I may tackle my work truck and it will need a very aggressive claying or other method.  What is the thing to do now?  On a normal vehicle I have no issue using clay.  On this however, it feels like sandpaper even after a wash.  It gets used occasionally to transport an air powered sprayer we use to apply epoxy coatings to the asphalt which creates a lot of overspray, especially on windy days. 


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 24, 2021, 08:00:54 PM
Tom, what are you doing for your clay step?  I may tackle my work truck and it will need a very aggressive claying or other method.  What is the thing to do now?  On a normal vehicle I have no issue using clay.  On this however, it feels like sandpaper even after a wash.  It gets used occasionally to transport an air powered sprayer we use to apply epoxy coatings to the asphalt which creates a lot of overspray, especially on windy days. 


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Believe it or not, I generally don't clay anything except for white vehicles at work. (Yea, let that sink in for a minute.) On white paint, I use an Iron Remover spray first, then a Nanaoskin mitt. As Boss429 (from F150 Online) taught me a long time ago, "We detailed vehicles for years before there was clay." That's just one of the corners I have to cut to hit my 3 hour average. But look at the results. Hmmm. Maybe for a work truck you can get away without it.

Here's another thought. Remember this little beauty from a few years ago? This is after washing and just before polishing. No clay step. (I did use brake cleaner to get the asphalt off though.)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/e60/tfwarda/1998%20Ford%20Aeromax%20-%202012%20Detail/ASRFHoodBefore2012.jpg)

Here it is after polishing and wax - with no clay step:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/e60/tfwarda/1998%20Ford%20Aeromax%20-%202012%20Detail/ASRFHoodAfter2102.jpg)

I rest my case.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 24, 2021, 08:03:50 PM
Tom, what are you doing for your clay step?  I may tackle my work truck and it will need a very aggressive claying or other method.  What is the thing to do now?  On a normal vehicle I have no issue using clay.  On this however, it feels like sandpaper even after a wash.  It gets used occasionally to transport an air powered sprayer we use to apply epoxy coatings to the asphalt which creates a lot of overspray, especially on windy days. 


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Believe it or not, I generally don't clay anything except for white vehicles at work. (Yea, let that sink in for a minute.) On white paint, I use an Iron Remover spray first, then a Nanaoskin mitt. As Boss429 (from F150 Online) taught me a long time ago, "We detailed vehicles for years before there was clay." That's just one of the corners I have to cut to hit my 3 hour average. But look at the results. Hmmm. Maybe for a work truck you can get away without it.

Here's another thought. Remember this little beauty from a few years ago? This is after washing and just before polishing. No clay step. (I did use brake cleaner to get the asphalt off though.)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/e60/tfwarda/1998%20Ford%20Aeromax%20-%202012%20Detail/ASRFHoodBefore2012.jpg)

Here it is after polishing and wax - with no clay step:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/e60/tfwarda/1998%20Ford%20Aeromax%20-%202012%20Detail/ASRFHoodAfter2102.jpg)

I rest my case.
This is a factory base coat clear coat 2016 Ram.  It feels like 600 grit sandpaper after a wash.  It needs something to physically remove it.  I’m not sure how well traditional clay would work or if I’d need to get crazy with it.  It’s honestly not worth my time to get craZy on it.


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Title: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 25, 2021, 06:28:40 AM
Those nanoskin mitts are more expensive than I thought.  Not that so care since I’lol just buy it with the company credit card.  Without researching though, what’s the proper way to use one as a clay replacement?  Some pictures show a soapy surface and I read lubricant is important.  Are people just washing with them?  It says the surface should be clean so I wouldn’t think washing with one would be a great idea.  Unless you wash it a second time.


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on March 25, 2021, 11:54:36 AM
I have to ask, how big of a truck ?

The reason : mitt or pad.

I had good luck with the 4" pad, but you need 2 qts of DQ mixed to lube ratio ready to go.
- 6" pad on the Flex got a bit unruly, depending on how far I was reaching.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 25, 2021, 12:55:52 PM
I have to ask, how big of a truck ?

The reason : mitt or pad.

I had good luck with the 4" pad, but you need 2 qts of DQ mixed to lube ratio ready to go.
- 6" pad on the Flex got a bit unruly, depending on how far I was reaching.
Ram 4500 crew cab.  Cab only though.  The bed is a 10’ stake body/flat bed.


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Blown F-150 on March 25, 2021, 02:06:15 PM
Those nanoskin mitts are more expensive than I thought.  Not that so care since I’lol just buy it with the company credit card.  Without researching though, what’s the proper way to use one as a clay replacement?  Some pictures show a soapy surface and I read lubricant is important.  Are people just washing with them?  It says the surface should be clean so I wouldn’t think washing with one would be a great idea.  Unless you wash it a second time.


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I only use the "Clay" side of my Nanoskin mitt. I have used it both with soap and QD, I prefer soap honestly, just seems to work better.

To clean it, I just rinse it off after every 3x3ish section. I do a close inspection every other panel, as sometimes Tar can get a bit stuck in it. Mines probably due for replacement by now, but done about 6-7 "bad" vehicles with it.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 25, 2021, 03:43:26 PM
Those nanoskin mitts are more expensive than I thought.  Not that so care since I’lol just buy it with the company credit card.  Without researching though, what’s the proper way to use one as a clay replacement?  Some pictures show a soapy surface and I read lubricant is important.  Are people just washing with them?  It says the surface should be clean so I wouldn’t think washing with one would be a great idea.  Unless you wash it a second time.


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The mitts - or pads - are great. I have both to work with and prefer the mitt because it's harder to drop. I always use the mitt after a full wash.

As for lubrication, I use a very high concentration of a special car wash soap we get from a local Detailing Supply house. It's super slick and works very well. It's also a lot less expensive that a ton of QD.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on March 25, 2021, 09:04:36 PM
Ram 4500 crew cab.  Cab only though.  The bed is a 10’ stake body/flat bed.

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Do you have any coarse grit clay ( old school ) ?

The cab only on that should be quick with clay and you don't have to worry about it.

I think you could get pretty good with iron remover and standard clay before starting in on it.
- Maybe 1st pass use your old pads,
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 26, 2021, 08:39:23 AM
Ram 4500 crew cab.  Cab only though.  The bed is a 10’ stake body/flat bed.

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Do you have any coarse grit clay ( old school ) ?

The cab only on that should be quick with clay and you don't have to worry about it.

I think you could get pretty good with iron remover and standard clay before starting in on it.
- Maybe 1st pass use your old pads,
I did have a bar of more aggressive clay but I’m not sure if I still do.  Aside from the roof it would be a simple and relatively fast process.  The roof of crew cabs suck.  Maybe if my work schedule next week gives me a day off I will bring the truck home to give it a clean up.  We are hit and miss right now as the weather clears and warms up so we aren’t back 100% full time yet. 

For shits and giggles, I took this yesterday.  It’s the area between the door windows.  It’s not even the worst part of the truck. 

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210326/db51d51016a355c39102ed56db1d0765.dng)


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on March 26, 2021, 01:09:25 PM
Ram 4500 crew cab.  Cab only though.  The bed is a 10’ stake body/flat bed.

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Do you have any coarse grit clay ( old school ) ?

The cab only on that should be quick with clay and you don't have to worry about it.

I think you could get pretty good with iron remover and standard clay before starting in on it.
- Maybe 1st pass use your old pads,
I did have a bar of more aggressive clay but I’m not sure if I still do.  Aside from the roof it would be a simple and relatively fast process.  The roof of crew cabs suck.  Maybe if my work schedule next week gives me a day off I will bring the truck home to give it a clean up.  We are hit and miss right now as the weather clears and warms up so we aren’t back 100% full time yet. 

For shits and giggles, I took this yesterday.  It’s the area between the door windows.  It’s not even the worst part of the truck. 

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210326/db51d51016a355c39102ed56db1d0765.dng)


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Another dealer detailing dirty little secret. I only do the roof on vehicles where one can actually see it. For trucks and most SUV's, a wash is as good as it's going to get because why waste the time when nobody sees it?
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on March 26, 2021, 06:49:56 PM
Another dealer detailing dirty little secret. I only do the roof on vehicles where one can actually see it. For trucks and most SUV's, a wash is as good as it's going to get because why waste the time when nobody sees it?

Wait all this time I was not supposed to be making sure every mark is out of the roof of my trucks ? :wow:
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on March 26, 2021, 06:51:03 PM

I did have a bar of more aggressive clay but I’m not sure if I still do.  Aside from the roof it would be a simple and relatively fast process.  The roof of crew cabs suck.  Maybe if my work schedule next week gives me a day off I will bring the truck home to give it a clean up.  We are hit and miss right now as the weather clears and warms up so we aren’t back 100% full time yet. 

For shits and giggles, I took this yesterday.  It’s the area between the door windows.  It’s not even the worst part of the truck. 

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210326/db51d51016a355c39102ed56db1d0765.dng)

Is that tar or pitting ?
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 26, 2021, 06:56:08 PM

I did have a bar of more aggressive clay but I’m not sure if I still do.  Aside from the roof it would be a simple and relatively fast process.  The roof of crew cabs suck.  Maybe if my work schedule next week gives me a day off I will bring the truck home to give it a clean up.  We are hit and miss right now as the weather clears and warms up so we aren’t back 100% full time yet. 

For shits and giggles, I took this yesterday.  It’s the area between the door windows.  It’s not even the worst part of the truck. 

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210326/db51d51016a355c39102ed56db1d0765.dng)

Is that tar or pitting ?
Its a mix of two different epoxy coatings designed to be applied to asphalt.  One is a cement base and the other a water base. 


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on March 26, 2021, 07:03:07 PM

I did have a bar of more aggressive clay but I’m not sure if I still do.  Aside from the roof it would be a simple and relatively fast process.  The roof of crew cabs suck.  Maybe if my work schedule next week gives me a day off I will bring the truck home to give it a clean up.  We are hit and miss right now as the weather clears and warms up so we aren’t back 100% full time yet. 

For shits and giggles, I took this yesterday.  It’s the area between the door windows.  It’s not even the worst part of the truck. 

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210326/db51d51016a355c39102ed56db1d0765.dng)

Is that tar or pitting ?
This is one of the products we do and it shows you the products that get sprayed down.  On big jobs where areas are spread far away from each other we carry all the spraying equipment on the truck, leaving it up there.  It’s an air powered sprayer so it goes everywhere in the form of either splatter or mist depending how close something is.  When you see the guy dumping the bag in to the mixer, that is a bag of cement. 

https://youtu.be/WCWlAyKmCUY


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 03, 2021, 05:06:04 PM
I don't have a lot of time to get proper before and after shots of some of the stuff I do, but last week I somehow managed to grab a few. Here's a 2018 RAV4 with only 26,000 (very rough) miles on it. I had to pull out the extractor to even have half a shot of getting the carpets clean. And you don't even want to know what was under the back seat.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1847%5B1%5D.JPG)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1848%5B1%5D.JPG)

And then there was this train wreck 2018 Highlander with just under 40,000 miles on it. The interior was just trashed. In fact this one should have been subbed out because it was so bad. Just take a look at the way back.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1834%5B1%5D(1).JPG)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1842%5B1%5D.JPG)
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on April 05, 2021, 07:04:49 PM
There’s not much left to say.  You keep banging out these fantastic turn arounds.  The dealership is lucky to have you.  Especially since apparently you’re too cheap.   Haha


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 08, 2021, 07:09:43 PM
Interesting news the last few days. The Toyota dealership I work for has been a family run affair for many, many years. I actually bought my first new car - a 1976 Toyota Corolla Liftback SR5 - from them when I got my first big job at Kodak. 

Well, that's about to change. We were bought out by the West-Herr Automotive Group out of Buffalo, NY. (We will be their 28th dealership.)  Listening to the owner of West-Herr yesterday, I'm kind of looking forward to the change. He really sounded down to earth and honest about putting employees first. We chatted later and he assured me that they will be offering me a job in the new organization. This might be interesting.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on April 08, 2021, 07:52:46 PM
Interesting news the last few days. The Toyota dealership I work for has been a family run affair for many, many years. I actually bought my first new car - a 1976 Toyota Corolla Liftback SR5 - from them when I got my first big job at Kodak. 

Well, that's about to change. We were bought out by the West-Herr Automotive Group out of Buffalo, NY. (We will be their 28th dealership.)  Listening to the owner of West-Herr yesterday, I'm kind of looking forward to the change. He really sounded down to earth and honest about putting employees first. We chatted later and he assured me that they will be offering me a job in the new organization. This might be interesting.
Interesting for sure.  Hope it works out.  They’d be a fool to let you go. 


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Blown F-150 on April 08, 2021, 08:38:22 PM
I know you have the experience with acquisitions, however they often make a good sales pitch in the beginning, lol.

You’re a money maker for them, not a chance they wouldn’t at least give you some options. They very well know that they can’t farm out that level of quality for a reasonable price.

I think you’re in for a raise and bringing on a young apprentice!


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on April 08, 2021, 10:55:37 PM
We chatted later and he assured me that they will be offering me a job in the new organization. This might be interesting.

Awesome news.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 13, 2021, 05:04:20 PM
My first rule of detailing is "I can heal the sick, but I can't raise the dead." Well, today was apparently raise the dead day at the dealership. First up was a used 2018 Camry with 27,000 miles on it. How bad could it possibly be you ask. Well, if you park it under a tree dripping sap every day and then let it bake in for a few years ... Here's what the hood looked like after a wash:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1890%5B1%5D.JPG)

Those spots are all sap. They were generally about 1/4" in diameter. I tried my favorite Sap Remover. No dice. I tried Isopropyl Alcohol. No dice. I tried ProSolv. No dice. Well, gotta polish them off. I went with a Blue Pace Cutting pad and Menzerna 400 at full blast on the Flex. Ever so slowly, they almost all came out. Then I followed up with a Hex Logic yellow pad and 3D One to finish it out. Here's the end result:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1892%5B1%5D.JPG)

Next up was a brand new 2021 RAV4 in my most unfavorite color - black. My co-worker was doing a new car prep and called me over for a consultation. This was the hood:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1894%5B1%5D.JPG)

Now a closeup:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1895%5B1%5D.JPG)

I have no idea what this crap was, but it was all over the hood. It was slightly raised and white - and it was not coming off with anything but a buffer or polisher. So, out came the Flex and I used the exact same process as I used on the Camry. Here's the result after about 20 minutes of work:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1897%5B1%5D.JPG)

It may not look perfect - and I'm not sure why - but it was. The problem was, the paint is supposed to be perfect on a new car, so almost nobody knows what a good job I did. Bummer.

Now here's tomorrow's challenge waiting in my bay. This is a 2019 Camry in a very desirable trim level and color. The only problem is that somebody had some truly hack paint work done to the right rear quarter panel. The sales department wants me to see what I can do with it before they decide if they're going to ship it out for paint. I'm betting it's going to burn right through and / or fall right off as soon as I hit it. What do you think?

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1899%5B1%5D.JPG)
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Blown F-150 on April 13, 2021, 08:19:43 PM
Yup, probably super thin clear. That’s not gonna be fun.


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 14, 2021, 03:08:44 PM
You guys are absolutely not going to believe this - especially because I didn't believe it either. I went in this morning and - as I promised the sales staff - wailed away at the Camry starting with the right rear quarter panel because it was the worst. I kept checking the pad to see if it turned black indicating that I burned through the clear. It didn't. In fact I did the whole first stage cutting process with Menzerna 400 on a blue Rupes Cutting pad and no black appeared. I then went to a second pass with 3D One on a Hex Logic Cutting pad and still didn't get any black. Man, as hacked as the paint was, they must have just buried it in clear.

I know you're all wondering how much "less awful" I could make it. Drum roll ...

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1906%5B1%5D.JPG)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1910%5B1%5D.JPG)

I was absolutely flabbergasted. Other than the fact that the masking job prior to paint was pathetic and left some really ugly edges, the quarter panel actually looked pretty damned good. Based on that success,  I decided to go on with the rest of the car. I'm going to finish it tomorrow and I'll get some final pics, but it actually looks pretty awesome. Your thoughts?
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on April 14, 2021, 05:58:40 PM
Obviously this is a different vehicle...

Haha.  Man, you can’t argue those results!


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 14, 2021, 06:45:09 PM
If you look closely, you'll see that I (somehow) failed to remove / correct the sanding marks under the paint. I guess I have my limits.  :dunno:
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on April 16, 2021, 06:09:36 PM
That is incredible.  I am not shocked that there is still clear on it, those scratches were plenty, but they did not look deep.

I was shocked how much you have to do to get through the few mils of clear that are on cars.
- what's his name previously at Autogeek ( now at megs/3m ) used a paint thickness gauge and  went after a clear paint job on a car, showing how little is removed when wet sanding a vehicle.

Great job on that.. Did you guys figure out why the new vehicle showed up in such bad shape ?
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 16, 2021, 06:16:40 PM
Great job on that.. Did you guys figure out why the new vehicle showed up in such bad shape ?

Thanks, and no, we have no idea what happened to it. As long as I got it fixed, everybody's happy.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 21, 2021, 07:37:55 PM
Well boys and girls, my adventures as a dealer detailer may be numbered. It has to do with the new ownership of the dealership I work at and their policy on detailing. They outsource all of it. The company they outsource to offered me a job yesterday. The compensation they offered was an insult and I told them that to their face. My current boss (the Service Manager) and biggest customer (the Used Car Manager) don't want me to leave, but totally understand my position. This should get interesting, but I'm out of town for a few days and really could care less. Maybe it's time to retire - for the third time. Stay tuned.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Blown F-150 on April 21, 2021, 09:01:52 PM
Lol, it’s a sign! Retire and do some jobs on the side for beer money.


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Rollingrock on April 22, 2021, 11:53:33 PM
Trying to catch up here, all I can say is holy shit balz.....Tom, we knew you were good but shit man, I think you may be the Oracle. 

You mentioned Extractor....is that a dealer grade they have or what?   

Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on April 23, 2021, 03:03:03 PM
Either sell yourself to them and convince them to keep you on or just ride off in to the sunset and enjoy the extra free time.  Get a second dog.


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Rollingrock on April 23, 2021, 03:21:13 PM
Just caught that last part from you Tom

Yeah will wait till they start using this outside compahy and the jobs don't come back as good and they dont' get as much for the cars.   

Karma is a bitch. 

You can have 2 out of three things:

They want it Fast?
They want it amazing Amazing?
They want it Cheap?

Pick 2, can't have all three.

   
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Rollingrock on April 23, 2021, 04:02:14 PM
Either sell yourself to them and convince them to keep you on or just ride off in to the sunset and enjoy the extra free time.  Get a second dog.


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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyC--vsiGEI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyC--vsiGEI)
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 25, 2021, 08:53:45 AM
Just got back from a 23 hour drive back from Colorado in a 26' Penske box truck. Thanks for the kind words and advice guys! My plan is to sit and wait to see what happens. If the dealership wants to keep me on as an employee - doing what I did - that's great with me. If the outsourced detailing company wants me to simply wash and vacuum cars for minimum wage, well, you know what they can do with that. Since the new owners take over this coming Thursday, I should know pretty soon. Wish me luck!
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on April 26, 2021, 05:25:59 PM
Just got back from a 23 hour drive back from Colorado in a 26' Penske box truck. Thanks for the kind words and advice guys! My plan is to sit and wait to see what happens. If the dealership wants to keep me on as an employee - doing what I did - that's great with me. If the outsourced detailing company wants me to simply wash and vacuum cars for minimum wage, well, you know what they can do with that. Since the new owners take over this coming Thursday, I should know pretty soon. Wish me luck!

Sorry things fell apart, I think it is time to exit and see what the marina has going on, maybe use your own boat a bit more. 
- Your flat rate on some of these wrecks had you making min wage to begin with, so going that route full time is not worth it.

The new owners obviously have a template they apply to everything so they get the same thing every time.
Think I see a saying around here about you will always get the same thing if you do the thing you have always done.  They don't understand part of the sales volume ( gross revenue ) was from having you in house caring about what you are doing.

I wonder how you can get the word out that you can fix the vehicles they will be selling after that 1st wash and all the glaze washes off showing the mess under it.
- I imagine the new owners are a bottom dollar AIO / glaze queen production show customer..  Can't tell the difference from my house..
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 27, 2021, 06:17:18 PM
Looks like I'll be packing my stuff up tomorrow. $15.25 an hour for meatball detailing doesn't excite me in the least.

Oddly enough, I'm not having any hard feelings towards the former owners of the dealership on this. They allowed me to come in, show them what I could do, work with them on the most cost effective way to significantly up their used car game, then execute my vision. I learned a ton and they got to make some pretty decent money. The appraisers from the new owners even commented that our used cars looked better than the used cars at any of their other 28 dealerships. (Now I can understand why.) At least I get to walk out the door with my head held high and I still have the respect of the old owners and managers. I made sure not to burn that bridge.

What's next? Other than a few weeks off to catch up on a few projects that I'm way behind on, I'm not sure. I don't think I'm going to go back to dealer detailing though. I much prefer the kind of work I was able to do in my own garage. I can pretty well assure you that I'm not going to actually retire though.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Blown F-150 on April 27, 2021, 07:09:53 PM
Good for you Tom, that certainly sounds like the right attitude and approach.

I’m sure you’ll find something to occupy your time.


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Rollingrock on April 28, 2021, 02:35:37 PM
yeah not to echo but good calll.   Go out on a high and yes I would prefer to do my own thing in my own garage on my own time with out the pressure or eyes and looking over the shoulder from a dealer.

As you know, I had a nightmare detail on a black lexus a few years back.  I got taken advantage of and had to do that car 3 times b/c they kept messing up what I fixed.   

Never again will I do that.   

Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 29, 2021, 07:18:19 AM
Thanks guys. As I mentioned in my earlier post, I packed up my stuff and left yesterday after one last detail. It was kind of sad because believe it or not, I was really enjoying what I was doing even though it wasn't exactly the quality level I was used to at home. And I really liked the guys in Service that I worked beside.

Something interesting happened during the day yesterday though. First, I found out the Used Car Manager and the Service Manager went to bat for me with the new corporate owner and his staff. Believe it or not, the owner did remember me and his promise that I would have a job going forward.

First, the Service Manger introduces me to the VP of Service (his new boss) and we have a really, really nice conversation. He profusely apologized for what happened and said that was not the way it was supposed to go down. He did say he could not change the fact that they were not going to do their own detailing at our dealership, but he had some openings at other dealerships they owned near us - like right across the street at a Dodge dealership. He also offered a possibility of detailing customer cars at their BMW and Mercedes dealerships across town. I thanked him for taking the time to personally come talk to me, then asked if I could take a week or two to unwind, catch up on a few things, then get back to him. He was good with that.

A little while later, the Used Car Manager brings another suit and tie type over to my bay and introduces me to his new corporate boss. We have almost the exact same conversation.  Just like the last guy, this guy seems pretty darn decent and sincere about me finding a job somewhere in their (29 store) organization. Wow! Again, I asked if I could take a week or two to mull things over and he's good with it.

So my take away(s) are that 1) Good work does get recognized and valued - even if you think it doesn't. 2) Now I have to decide if I want to keep doing dealer detailing or try something else since so many places are hiring for all kinds of jobs right now. Your thoughts?
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on April 29, 2021, 07:28:12 AM
Thanks guys. As I mentioned in my earlier post, I packed up my stuff and left yesterday after one last detail. It was kind of sad because believe it or not, I was really enjoying what I was doing even though it wasn't exactly the quality level I was used to at home. And I really liked the guys in Service that I worked beside.

Something interesting happened during the day yesterday though. First, I found out the Used Car Manager and the Service Manager went to bat for me with the new corporate owner and his staff. Believe it or not, the owner did remember me and his promise that I would have a job going forward.

First, the Service Manger introduces me to the VP of Service (his new boss) and we have a really, really nice conversation. He profusely apologized for what happened and said that was not the way it was supposed to go down. He did say he could not change the fact that they were not going to do their own detailing at our dealership, but he had some openings at other dealerships they owned near us - like right across the street at a Dodge dealership. He also offered a possibility of detailing customer cars at their BMW and Mercedes dealerships across town. I thanked him for taking the time to personally come talk to me, then asked if I could take a week or two to unwind, catch up on a few things, then get back to him. He was good with that.

A little while later, the Used Car Manager brings another suit and tie type over to my bay and introduces me to his new corporate boss. We have almost the exact same conversation.  Just like the last guy, this guy seems pretty darn decent and sincere about me finding a job somewhere in their (29 store) organization. Wow! Again, I asked if I could take a week or two to mull things over and he's good with it.

So my take away(s) are that 1) Good work does get recognized and valued - even if you think it doesn't. 2) Now I have to decide if I want to keep doing dealer detailing or try something else since so many places are hiring for all kinds of jobs right now. Your thoughts?
I’m a little late to the party since working nights and being all messed up.  I don’t think anyone can advise you on what to do at this point.  You seemed ready to step away from dealerships and now you’re possibly willing to go back.  Is it the work that intrigues you or the fact that they treated you well, appreciates you and still want you somewhere in their organization? 

My two cents, do it because you want to do that work, but only do it for people who are going to respect and appreciate you.  Don’t do it because they were nice to you and don’t do it if you’d rather be doing something else. 


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Rollingrock on April 29, 2021, 07:45:37 AM
Tom that is great to hear that they see the value not only in your work but the money your cars bring in.

To me it almost sounds like your own shop is in the near future with a deal with the dealerships as part of your business.  Do normal detail jobs and dealer prep for a fee. 

JP

Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 29, 2021, 12:27:21 PM
To me it almost sounds like your own shop is in the near future with a deal with the dealerships as part of your business.  Do normal detail jobs and dealer prep for a fee. 

JP
One might think that, but the sad truth is that 99% of dealers could care less about true quality detailing. That may sound strange, but one thing I learned in the last year was that 99% of customers could care less. A friend of mine owns a business about an hour west of here that does mostly dealer detailing. He has about 15 employees and the auto group that bought us is one of his biggest customers. Almost none of his clients are even the slightest bit interested in paint correction. Wash it, vacuum it and slather on the glaze, then ship it back. Sound familiar?

I think the biggest decision I need to make going forward is if dealer detailing is what I really want to do to keep busy. I don't want to work more than 30 hours a week. I don't want to work weekends. And I don't want to be under a ton of pressure to "move the metal." That's what I had, but it's gone and going to be hard to find. There are a few small dealerships left around here and I may stick my head in the door at a few of them to test the waters. But there are literally hundreds of part time jobs doing other things around here that are going begging. Lot's to think about.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on April 30, 2021, 12:31:00 PM
I thought I'd post up a few pics of my last few details and some special issues that I had to deal with. First up, here's a 2017 Tacoma with 24,000 miles on it. It looked pretty decent when I started, but even better when I was finished. It lasted less than a day on the lot.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1938%5B1%5D.JPG)

Next up, and sitting just behind the Tacoma is a 2010 Highlander with almost exactly 100,000 more miles on it than the Tacoma. There was no way this one was going to be perfect, but I think it pops pretty good.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1939%5B1%5D.JPG)

Now, my very last detail for Vanderstyne Toyota. It's a 2018 RAV 4 with just under 20,000 miles on it. It wasn't bad, but it was black and had a few "issues." For instance, there was this mess on the bottom of the front passenger side door:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1947%5B1%5D.JPG)

After some serious polishing:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1949%5B1%5D.JPG)

And the final product:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1950%5B1%5D.JPG)

Lastly, there was this brand new Prius that the customer discovered a bit of an issue with the front passenger side door:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1951%5B1%5D.JPG)

After some really serious polishing:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1952%5B1%5D.JPG)

It will be interesting to see what the new outside contactor detailer can do for them going forward. I never used a drop of glaze. I think I smell some in the future.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Blown F-150 on April 30, 2021, 12:39:54 PM
Great results as always Tom! Enjoy the freedom until you decided to jump into something else.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on May 02, 2021, 11:48:23 AM
Tom,
Sorry things got turned upside down.  I am sure you will land on your feet; in a good place.

As for 99% of dealers & 99% of customers could care less about quality detailing; you could not be more correct.

Every day that goes by having a car that is 95% + defect free is less and less important.
I would be shocked if 50% of the drivers on the road have a clue about their oil change status ( 5K over due  ).

I sound like an old man (wait I am.. :doh:) but the days of people taking care of vehicles is dwindling down. 
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Kitzy on May 03, 2021, 10:58:42 AM
Great work, Tom!  But what’s new?  At this point we would be more surprised if you didn’t get these results. 

I guess we will just sit back and anxiously and curiously await your next move. 


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Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on May 03, 2021, 11:06:33 AM
Great work, Tom!  But what’s new?  At this point we would be more surprised if you didn’t get these results. 

I guess we will just sit back and anxiously and curiously await your next move. 


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Kind of enjoying my time off to tell you the truth. I had more stuff to catch up on than I thought. Still not even half way through my list though.

As for my next move, I'm giving some (very) serious thought to walking away from dealer detailing. I've come to the conclusion that it's going to be next to impossible to find an employer willing to truly correct paint when they can hire a high school drop out to slather on glaze - for much less money.

So what does that mean I'll do? Hell, there are so many open jobs right now because people would rather sit home and collect unemployment than actually work for a living, I should have lots of choices. Stay tuned!
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on May 05, 2021, 05:56:07 PM
I have an interview for a Detailing position at at Kia / Hyundai dealership just down the street from where I worked tomorrow. I'm not sure my heart is into it though.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on May 05, 2021, 08:22:18 PM
I have an interview for a Detailing position at at Kia / Hyundai dealership just down the street from where I worked tomorrow. I'm not sure my heart is into it though.
Do you know if they care about detailing ( from seeing what you can do ) or are they another 11.75/hr to pile glaze on cars and shove them out the door ?
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on May 06, 2021, 05:46:35 AM
I have an interview for a Detailing position at at Kia / Hyundai dealership just down the street from where I worked tomorrow. I'm not sure my heart is into it though.
Do you know if they care about detailing ( from seeing what you can do ) or are they another 11.75/hr to pile glaze on cars and shove them out the door ?
That's exactly what I'm afraid of and I'm just not interested in doing that kind of work.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on May 07, 2021, 10:15:45 AM
I have an interview for a Detailing position at at Kia / Hyundai dealership just down the street from where I worked tomorrow. I'm not sure my heart is into it though.
The interview went well yesterday. Sounds (and looks) like they're doing exactly what we used to do (just wash and vacuum) used cars for prep - except they have their own (spinning brushes) car wash. They also use one wash bay and cram 2 cars in it for detailing and final prep work. They have nobody they can trust to run a buffer or polisher and the used cars look like ours used to. When I showed the manager the process we eventually went to across the street, she said that's exactly what she wants to get to. Better yet, she was open to me training the kids how to do the interior parts so I could focus on exteriors - which you guys all know I prefer.

The next step will be seeing what they're willing to offer. She has to go to HR because I have more skills than they normally ask for. I still have some more questions to ask them before I jump on anything. Stay tuned.
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: sscully on May 07, 2021, 04:40:02 PM
Sounds promising.. Teaching the interior might be a bad idea; depends if they give a damn about doing a good job.

See what happens...  good luck with it.

Knowing how dealers are, the spinning brush car wash will give you lots of work due to the brushes never being cleaned  :wow:
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Rollingrock on May 10, 2021, 08:06:18 PM
I thought I'd post up a few pics of my last few details and some special issues that I had to deal with. First up, here's a 2017 Tacoma with 24,000 miles on it. It looked pretty decent when I started, but even better when I was finished. It lasted less than a day on the lot.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1938%5B1%5D.JPG)

Next up, and sitting just behind the Tacoma is a 2010 Highlander with almost exactly 100,000 more miles on it than the Tacoma. There was no way this one was going to be perfect, but I think it pops pretty good.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1939%5B1%5D.JPG)

Now, my very last detail for Vanderstyne Toyota. It's a 2018 RAV 4 with just under 20,000 miles on it. It wasn't bad, but it was black and had a few "issues." For instance, there was this mess on the bottom of the front passenger side door:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1947%5B1%5D.JPG)

After some serious polishing:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1949%5B1%5D.JPG)

And the final product:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1950%5B1%5D.JPG)

Lastly, there was this brand new Prius that the customer discovered a bit of an issue with the front passenger side door:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1951%5B1%5D.JPG)

After some really serious polishing:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1952%5B1%5D.JPG)

It will be interesting to see what the new outside contactor detailer can do for them going forward. I never used a drop of glaze. I think I smell some in the future.

Wow Tom, those look great dude.   As usual.  that black one, was that paint transfer for scratched? 
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Rollingrock on May 10, 2021, 08:11:42 PM
I have an interview for a Detailing position at at Kia / Hyundai dealership just down the street from where I worked tomorrow. I'm not sure my heart is into it though.
. Better yet, she was open to me training the kids how to do the interior parts so I could focus on exteriors - which you guys all know I prefer.

Tom, NONE of us like to do the interiors.   Heck, RockPick is the only guy I know who likes interiors.  I hate peoples filth.   Mind I can deal with but others...F. that.   Train the kids.   LOL. But sounds promising.   
Title: Re: Adventures of a Dealer Detailer
Post by: Too Stroked on May 11, 2021, 11:42:49 AM
I thought I'd post up a few pics of my last few details and some special issues that I had to deal with. First up, here's a 2017 Tacoma with 24,000 miles on it. It looked pretty decent when I started, but even better when I was finished. It lasted less than a day on the lot.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1938%5B1%5D.JPG)

Next up, and sitting just behind the Tacoma is a 2010 Highlander with almost exactly 100,000 more miles on it than the Tacoma. There was no way this one was going to be perfect, but I think it pops pretty good.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1939%5B1%5D.JPG)

Now, my very last detail for Vanderstyne Toyota. It's a 2018 RAV 4 with just under 20,000 miles on it. It wasn't bad, but it was black and had a few "issues." For instance, there was this mess on the bottom of the front passenger side door:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1947%5B1%5D.JPG)

After some serious polishing:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1949%5B1%5D.JPG)

And the final product:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1950%5B1%5D.JPG)

Lastly, there was this brand new Prius that the customer discovered a bit of an issue with the front passenger side door:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1951%5B1%5D.JPG)

After some really serious polishing:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/e60/tfwarda/IMG_1952%5B1%5D.JPG)

It will be interesting to see what the new outside contactor detailer can do for them going forward. I never used a drop of glaze. I think I smell some in the future.

Wow Tom, those look great dude.   As usual.  that black one, was that paint transfer for scratched?

I wish it was only paint transfer, but alas, it was mostly a scratch. Didn't get it 100% out, but close enough for the used car lot.
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