Boat Detailing Recommended Products In the interest of full disclosure, I am in no way affiliated with, employed by, have any vested interest, or in any way receive compensation from the sale or distribution of the product lines reviewed or the company that manufactures or markets it. Results Obtained These articles are not intended to warrant or guarantee any results with any of the products mentioned. No endorsement of companies or their products mentioned is intended, nor is criticism implied of similar companies or their products not mentioned. The author does not provide, nor guarantee and is not responsible or liable for any third-party products or services. Brand, product and company names used throughout these articles are trademarks of their respective companies and are used for product identification purposes only. Proper Technique The detailing methods set out here have been adapted for special use and may not be the same as those recommended by the product manufacturer, and you may experience different results from those stated. When in doubt always use common sense. A sound understanding of the proper technique and the correct process will produce excellent results even with a mediocre product. A quality product used without the proper surface preparation or application technique will never obtain a satisfactory result. Using the proper methodology (surface preparation, using a quality product, along with the correct application technique) will ensure an excellent result. Skill Level / Experience Some methods described may be beyond the capabilities of the average detailer or enthusiast; in this case we strongly encourage the reader to consult a professional detailer or body shop concerning the matters discussed herein. Liability The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate; however we make no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. The writer assumes no responsibility, expressed or implied, due to misuse or misinterpretation of the information or methods used, or for any vehicle damage or injury that may occur due to the suggestions and information offered. Product Quality and Technique Proceed with this in mind; the products you use constitute a very small factor in the equation. Methodology and technique constitute 95%; the reasoning behind the choice of quality products is to eliminate any limiting factors, thus enabling you to place emphasis on technique used. There is no `one correct way' to apply a product; the way detailing products are customized are what each individual finds give them their desired results. Aesthetics The aesthetics- of a vehicles appearance is very subjective to say the least, the only best wax or sealant that really matters is what looks 'best' to you. In the final analysis it all come down to; 85% preparation, 5% product, 7% application methodology and the balance is in the ‘guy’ of the beholder Research Research others opinions and products, test them and then make an objective decision based upon factual information not marketing hype or brand loyalty. I have always thought that the more facts and information you have at hand the easier it is to judge what information you are being given. After all, how can you fully understand and properly use any product unless you have all the facts? Detailing products Should work on their real merits, not ‘smoke and mirrors'. Proceed with this in mind; the products you use constitute a very small factor in the equation. Methodology and technique constitute 95%; the reasoning behind the choice of quality products is to eliminate any limiting factors, thus enabling you to place emphasis on technique used. Most importantly - choose carefully whose advice you listen to, and more importantly what advice you act upon, so I would strongly suggest that you verify any information that I or anyone else shares with you. Detailing Boat detailing can be a natural extension of auto detailing. Avoid washing your boat in the hot sun, always wash from top to bottom, and remember to rinse often. Klasse All-In-One contains a chemical (solvent) cleaner that removes imbedded dirt, light oxidation, which occurs when paint loses it’s natural oils, tree sap, road film and old wax plus it provides an tough acrylic protection. The foundation of the Klasse line this is a true one-step product. It cleans, polishes and protects in one easy step. All-in-one is the first component of a two-part system; by adding the SG to the base coat of AIO it enhances protection, durability and the paints appearance. Application 1.Apply this product using water-dampened applicator, and then spray the applicator with Sonus Spritz. 2.Apply Klasse products very thinly using absolute minimum pressure on the applicator. 3.Spray the vehicle surface very lightly with Sonus Spritz between each ‘layer’. 4.Use a slightly damp 100% cotton towel to wipe the surface followed by a dry 100% cotton towel to remove Sealant Glaze 5.I cannot emphasise ‘apply products very sparingly’ enough. 6.Schnell-alternate: (Klasse Wash) Wash vehicle, apply "All-in-One" to entire vehicle while its still wet using damp 100% cotton towel, re-wash, rinse, and dry vehicle. 6. As a quick detailer mix a 3:1 solution of Sealant Glaze and Sonus Spritz, spray onto a 100% cotton towel and apply lightly to pant film surface. 7. The secret to the application of a polymer product is to apply it thin (super thin) fill a spray bottle and mist a foam pad for application. Surface Preparation- •Wash with a good quality wash concentrate 1.0oz per 2 gallon •Using a long handled boars hairbrush with water hose attachment and a citrus based cleaner (P21S Total Auto Wash) •Rinse vehicle thoroughly. •Remove any imbedded contaminants with detailing clay (Clay Magic™) and a lubrication solution 5:1 (Distilled water/Woolite™) •Remove any surface imperfections with a suitable machine polish •Or a swirl mark remover (3M™'s PI-III Machine Glaze) •Clean paint film surface with a pre-wax cleaner (P21S™ Gloss Enhancing Paintwork Cleaner) •Lightly wash paint surface with a diluted car wash concentrate 1.0oz per gallon •Dry thoroughly and start application process Klasse All-In-One Application Methodology •First and most importantly, thoroughly prepare your paint film surface. •Wash, use detailers clay, polish and apply a pre-wax Cleaner •Shake product container vigorously to ensure mixing •Apply to a clean, dry surface away from direct sunlight •Dampen the applicator with water or use a lubricating spray during application •Place a small amount of product (about the size of a dime) on to a damp (but not wet) applicator (not the paint surface) apply a thin even film of product to paint surface. •If you are using a Porter-Cable orbital polisher to apply AIO, use a mild cutting foam (white) pad, using a low speed (3.5 – 4.0) and light pressure, let the polish / cleaners do the work •Apply to whole of one side of the boat (1-1.5oz of product should be sufficient) •Apply to vertical surfaces top to bottom and then left to right, on horizontal surfaces bow to stern and then left to right, over-lapping to ensure complete coverage. •This application technique affects the paints optical properties by optimising light refraction and the reflectivity of the bodylines and contours of the vehicle. •To test for results, wipe off product with a clean / dry Microfiber cloth. If the surface is still dull continue polishing, ensure that the product is worked in to obtain the best results. •Its primary catalyst is an aerobic process so for the acrylic to dry low air temperatures and/or humidity may effect the time requirement. •After sufficient drying time do a quick swipe test with your finger. If no smearing or drag is evident, the product is ready to be removed •Remove AIO as soon as it starts to ‘haze’ (set-up) this makes residues easier to remove than to allow the product to completely dry, and unlike wax, there is no benefit in doing so. •Residues should be slightly damp (not a dry powder) when you buff them. If the residues are still wet, you are using too much water on the applicator or too much product. •Removal: product can be removed with a 100% cotton cloth (Alpine DF™ Microfiber towel) or a with a Porter-Cable random orbital polisher and a non-cutting type (Grey) foam pad Sufficient time should be allowed to enable cross-linking, 1-2 hours is recommended before the application of other products. Klasse High Gloss Sealant Glaze (SG) is a companion product to AIO that builds finish depth and clarity. It contains no cleaners, wax or polishes and can be layered. With each layer the gloss and depth of shine will increase and the tough acrylic protection will also increase. The longer SG stays on the surface, the easier it is to buff off, if it is found to be difficult in almost every instance it can be traced to using too much product, applying with a dry, not damp, applicator and/or not waiting long enough before buffing. If there is resistance to easy buffing after its dry, simply mist the surface with any quick-detail spray and wipe with a dry Microfiber Cloth. (SG) Application Methodology •Shake product container vigorously to ensure mixing •Do not dampen the applicator with water or use any lubricating sprays during application. •Apply to a clean, dry surface, with a temperature of >50 – 90<o F, away from direct sunlight •Place a small amount of product (about the size of a dime) on to a dry applicator (not the paint surface) and using a light to medium even pressure, apply a thin even film of product to paint surface. •As an alternative, pour some SG into small misting spray bottle, this will enable you to cover the applicator while using the minimum amount of product, and this will ensure a super thin application. •Apply to one side of the boat (1-1.5oz should be sufficient) taking care not to apply to absorbent surfaces (i.e. unpainted plastics and rubber trim) •First pass: apply (ultra- thin) roof to floor on vertical surfaces and across on horizontal surfaces •SG is formulated from hard resins and therefore must be given sufficient time to cross-link, >24 hours, but anytime up to 72 hour period is recommended before other layers / products are applied this provides better durability and a deeper shine •As air is the primary catalyst for the acrylic to dry, low air temperatures and / or humidity may effect the time requirements. •Residues should be dry when you buff them. If the residues are still wet, you are using too much product. •After sufficient drying time do a quick swipe test with your finger. If no smearing or drag is evident, the residue is ready to be removed. •Removal: product can be removed with a 100% cotton (Alpine DF™ Microfiber towel) or a with a Porter-Cable random orbital polisher and a non-cutting type (Grey) foam pad •Sonus Spritz is formulated the same way as Klasse and can be used to ‘even’ out layers or as a quick detailer •Second pass (ultra- thin) apply in direction of airflow, horizontal surfaces bow to stern, vertical surfaces front to back. •Third pass (ultra- thin) and any subsequent layer(s): apply in same ‘direction of air flow’ and leave on for 1-2 hours before removing residue •This application technique affects the paints optical properties by optimising light refraction, and the reflectivity of the bodylines and contours of the boat. •Finally spray a very thin layer of Sonus Spritz and buff with a 100% cotton cloth •Sufficient time should be allowed to enable cross-linking, 12 – 72 hours is recommended Meguiar's Cordless Orbital Buffer Now you can quickly detail your car or boat wherever it's convenient - even when there's no electricity to run a traditional power buffer. Meguiar's Cordless Orbital Buffer has a comfortable Soft Grip and weighs just 1.3kg. The absence of an extension cord makes it ideal for one-handed operation, even for people with small hands. Safety around water and moisture make it a great choice for dockside. The Cordless Buffer comes in a complete kit that includes: two rechargeable batteries (each lasting 1-1/2 hours), a battery charger, and one 61/2-inch foam-polishing pad (W-8006). It comes in a high-quality, zippered black nylon-carrying bag with divided interior compartments, exterior pockets and dual handles. Feeling ambitious? A complete detailing will include cleaning the windows, vacuuming the carpets, and cleaning and protecting the upholstery. Don't forget the chrome and stainless steel railings. After a good cleaning, a little bright metal polish will add the finishing touch to any spring boat cleaning. Meguiar's Professional Boat Detailing Products 1.#49 Super Duty Fiberglas Cleaner- use to polish-out extreme surface oxidation and other significant surface defects. 2.#44 Heavy Duty Colour Restorer- to polish-out mild surface oxidation, fine scratches, water spots and dullness. 3.#45 Boat Polish- to restore optimum gloss, especially on dark colours, after the fibreglass gel coat has been pre-cleaned and all embedded contamination has been removed. 4.#27 Chrome Cleaner Polish - clean and polish bright metal surfaces 5.#50 Cleaner Wax- clean, polish and protect in one easy application. Also removes light oxidation and mild surface contamination. 6.#56 Hi-Tech Yellow Wax - to add a measure of protective lustre to previously cleaned and polished fibreglass, also good as a second coat of added protection of pre-cleaned stainless steel and chrome. 7.#55 Polymer Sealant - to create an exceptional long lasting shine, it also provides maximum protection and outlasts ordinary wax Information resource 1.Automotive Detailing Inside & Out; a Knowledge Base for the Perfectionist, by Jon Miller 2.TOGWT™ Series of Detailing Articles, by Jon Miller © TOGWT ™ Ltd Copyright 2002-2009, all rights reserved Detailing Articles This is one of is one of a series of unbiased and informative, knowledge based, subject specific articles, which are dedicated to the automotive detailing enthusiast or professional detailer in search of development and further education Copyright Protection and intellectual property rights-© This work is registered with the UK Copyright Service that supports international copyright protection by securing independent evidence that will help prove originality and ownership in any future claims or disputes. All original material is copyright, unless otherwise state (1) it may be copied and distributed for non-commercial purposes only provided that you retain all copyright and other proprietary notices contained in the original material, (2) the information is copied in full with no changes unless prior written agreement is obtained from TOGWT, and a reference to © TOGWT ™ is included, any unauthorized use of these materials may violate copyrights and/or trademark. Be aware these files have been digitally watermarked and actually contain embedded copyright information; so they can be traced to any website on the internet if needed in a legal confrontation
Glad tht this article may be of some help (written a few years ago, so maybe time to revisit / update/ revise)
:lol2: :lol2: your arms are going to fall off...but make sure you take lots of pictures opcorn: opcorn:
Monaco/St.Tropez cars & yachts-pic heavy! - Detailing World Wallypower Yachts - Detailing World The Monaco Thread - Page 141 - Detailing World <-plan to spend about a week on this thread.