Being a "professional" detailer
 

Hey guys and gals, I apologize if this is not the right spot for this. So I haven't been out of high school very long (just 2 years this year) and I have still been trying to find what I want to do the rest of my live to make a living. So as just a little back story, I work at best buy and have been for about 2 years now. It started out as a really nice job and is way better then Micky D's. However it has changed a lot in my 2 short years there and I'm getting fed up with the managers and all the changes they are doing. So I have been thinking of starting up a "Business" and being my own boss. I love cars and I'm extremely passionate about them and I love getting my hands dirty, so it's only fitting that I go into that line of work. I want to start doing washing/detailing while I go to school and learn how to do body work and fabrication as well as paint. My question is, what kinds of tools do I need. I mean specifics, I know I will need things like a good buffer with several different pads, some really nice rags and towels (not the ones from auto zone haha), a vacuum, shampooer. But being 20 I don't really know what brands are good or where to get half of this stuff other then like amazon. Also is there anything else you guys think I would need to get going? Also is there anyone on the forums that does stuff like this? Thanks for any help you guys can give me

^ Hi iMuf,
Sounds like a good idea & it sure pays to do your homework & make a plan.
Wish you good luck 4sure :thumbsup:

Below are some sights to check out & also keep checking back on your thread because I know there are a few members that are detailers.

I hope they will post their advise/help > Good Luck


(Below is from the web & theres a ton of infor on this subject on Googles etc)

Thanks space, I'll check all these sites out

I am far from a pro, but am obsessed with the detailing of my cars/trucks. I personally use Adam's Polishes, they have a great forum community (similar to MCF) where you can get advice and learn from others as you build your skill. Take a look there and also detailersdomain.com.

Adams Forums

Thanks man, I'll check them out.

I've been starting my own little detailing business...and here is a few tips..Collect as many products as you can, the more the better. You are going to want a nice variety to choose from, such as natural carnuba products, to synthetic...multiple brands, exc. See what you like. Read up on articles of best rated products, and youtube how-to's and see how other people do their work. And best of all, PRACTICE! Give discounted prices for packages to friends and family to get your portfolio going. Don't throw out those big detailer prices until your name is known.

x2 on autogeek.net

That site has taught me tons over the years.

Thanks a lot. Is it something you enjoy? Seems like everyone one some of the other forums I have been on have been telling me reasons not to do it and that I may not like it, but doing this kind of stuff is what I love. And this quote always pops up in my head "do something you love and you'll never work a day in your life." That is something I want to live by. I don't know if those people are really concerned and trying to "look out" for me or if they are saying things like that because I want to go after my dream and do something I love if that makes any sense at all. Also have you had to get any kind of insurance just in case anything bad happens? Also this question is for anyone, I have been looking at the Porter cable 7424 XP polisher and seems like it has got a ton of reviews, has anyone on here used it before who would recommend it?

Alot of people say things like that because its a very big hands on job, and very exhausting. I absolutely love detailing. Its the result you get in the end that makes it so rewarding.I have not done a detail I regret. I grew up around car restorations so the idea of restoring a cars natural beauty is what I enjoy the most.
I have a friend who uses a porter cable DA, and he loves it. I was thinking of getting the meguiars DA since I prefer meguiars products. I have not made this a official business, more of a side job for now since I have a regular full time job.

Yea I know all about hands on, exhausting work. I also work part time with my dad and we bathroom and kitchen remodels but I have grown up around cars and want to go into that field of work. But anyway, thanks a lot. You game me a lot of good info.