The Art and Science of Detailing: Making that Mercedes-Benz Shine ! Recap

A Detailing Clinic by Ricardo Becerra and Jerry Zajicek

About 30 plus members showed up for a 2 hour discussion on the latest products and techniques in automotive detailing. Ricardo's focus has lately been on efficient detailing of approximately 20 to 30 cars per week for the Waukesha area dealers. My focus lately has been on new products, and new techniques to make detailing easier, quicker, and better with a minimum of effort and money. Overall appearance quality has been my goal as I've done over 80 cars in the last 20 years.

We talked about the new trend of SiO2 infused products, which chemical manufacturers have now added to almost all products across their product lines. SiO2 generally acts as a glossing agent, and it's been added to waxes, sealants, tire coatings, interior dressings and the like. Graphene is the next such additive that manufacturers are using, not only because it glosses more, but it costs more too. And we talked about the proper way to apply Graphene products, spraying the applicator instead of the panel you are shining....

A major focus of prepping a car for waxing (or applying sealant) is getting the car very clean via the wet wash withone or two buckets, the rinseless wash, or waterless washes. After washing and rinsing with RO water,decontamination may be necessary for the removal of Iron spots, road film, old wax, bugs, etc. There are several manufacturers of detail chemicals that now supply Iron re-mover, bug remover, and fallout remover to aide in the decon process.

Lastly we finished up with a few questions on interior cleaning, and I highlighted the use of Interior Detailers, a new product classification for maintenance cleaning, as opposed to Interior Cleaners, which are more intended for removal of spots and stains, heavy buildup and far dirtier areas. Last, but not least, Laura Becerra arranged a wonderful table of foods for everyone to enjoy. Cold drinks, Mexican food (home made) and desserts, hit the spot for everyone.....

Thank You Laura for the Welcome to Leon International Auto Detailing, the Becerra family company. It was greatly appreciated.

More images can be found at https://photos.app.goo.gl/onQ6NdNw7y8BkiVY7