*Official* Ask A Detailer Thread

20% Off Coupon valid on in stock items. Not applicable on previously placed orders, custom or special order items, extractors, air compressors, car covers, polishers & polisher kits, vacuums, VIP specials, Buy One, Get One Free items, Pro Detailer Kits, Kreepstool, FlatStoppers, garage flooring, gift certificates, complete wash systems or any item as noted on product page. One coupon code per order.

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Keep looking at the specials. I was able to get the Rupes for 23% off back in March of this year. Polishers do go on sale it is just not that often.

 

Since I am logged in already, I might as well ask a question. I have made my decision on a Rupes polisher and my question is what is the big difference between the Bigfoot model and the regular model? If it were you getting a Rupes polisher which one would you choose? Any and all input will be greatly appreciated.

 

Two big differences. The first is a stronger motor to drive the oscillating system for the pad plate. The second is a longer throw which is the lateral distance of the oscillation or the orbit of the pad. The pad actually moves in an orbit that covers more paint surface. If you think of it as two overlapping circles the distance of the overlap is greater. I believe on the Rupes polishers have a 15mm and a 21mm throw. Most polishers have a 4 to 8 mm throw.

I have the 15 mm Rupes and it makes swirl marks and light defects disappear quickly.

I also have a Griot polisher, an original Porter Cable and a Makita direct drive polisher. I tend to use them all for specific tasks.

 

This is a dumb question, but what is the 20% off code? I want to make an order soon

Is it crazy20? Think I just saw that on the site

 

That is correct.



To SMTACO:

Polishers are exempt from this sale however. Keep your eyes open for a "No Exclusions" sale. As far as Rupes machines go, I would choose either the LHR15 or the Duetto for my needs. The LHR21 is a correction beast that really excels on large flat panels. Since the cars I maintain have many curves and small panels the big boy may not be my best choice. I have experience with the PC7424 and am accustomed to that body style. This is why the Duetto really piques my interest. In a perfect world I would have 'em all!

 

How much would you guys charge for a full cut polish on a newer black titan?

They are somewhat of a family friend so I am thinking $150? Does that sound fair?

 

How much prep work is needed? Claying?

 

Yeah I'm planning on wash -> clay -> tape everything -> 3 stage polishing -> wash -> dry -> sealant.

The truck isn't in bad condition they take care of it.

 

For a really good family friend then yes. The $150 will more than cover the cost of materials and wear and tear on the pads. A detail shop would charge right around $400 to $450 for a high end polish.

I bet you could get the job done with a 2 stage polish. If the color is a pearl or metallic color the third step will really make it stand out.

 

Awesome thanks

 

Basics question, but I plan on washing-clay-spray wax-done? Is polishing really necessary? And should I apply a sealant?

 

Every time I clay I seem to have honorific scratched paint after. It might be from having black paint or maybe I use a gritty clay bar but I think the best bet is to polish it after you clay.

 

What clay bar are you using that is gritty? Are you using a lot of clay bar lube when using the clay bar?

 

Polishing is not always necessary. I would use a sealant. Do you have one already? If not Megs 21 works well and is affordable.

 

I don't have one yet, but I'll look into that one, thanks. Maybe have it polished by a detailer guy in town, doin that by hand would be a pain

 

Ask the "detailer guy" to view his portfolio or you may end up with worse paint than before. I agree that polishing by hand is quite an ambitious task that will net fair results at best.

 

Ok, good idea. I've seen his work and it always looks really good from afar

 

I don't know if you seen this yet but Wolfgang Car Care has a 20% ( no exclusions) and free shipping over a certain amount. About to pull the trigger on. Bigfoot 15 or the 21. Also will be getting all four color pads but don't know if I should get 2 of each.

 

Which one would one get if you were buying a polisher between the 15 or 21? The first three vehicles that will be the guinea pigs are my own ( two tacomas and a sorrento) and after that will be all different.

 

The 15 because it is friendlier to curved surfaces.