01-25-2006, 12:43 AM
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 | Administrator | | Join Date: Oct 2005
Posts: 128
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| Car Washing Techniques
Car washing techniques vary amongst individual vehicle owners. Car washing is an essential function of preventive maintenance. Keeping the exterior of a vehicle clean prevents rust and oxidation and also reduces the occurrence of fine scratches. This article attempts to relay the most common method and the significance of this pastime. Equipment The most common car-washing equipment is:- A clean bucket.
- A sponge or wash mitt made of thick soft foam (not a dishwashing sponge) or a brand new, lint-free dishwashing cloth (one out of the packet).
- Some car-washing soap. Never use dish detergents; they are far too harsh and will strip any applications of wax. Another reason to not use dish or laundry detergent is that they are harder to rinse off with cold water and may therefore leave soap scum behind.
- A water hose that is long enough to reach around the vehicle without having to be draped over the trunk or hood.
- A chamois, which is a super-absorbent cloth that does not leave lint on the vehicle.
Location After the proper equipment has been gathered the vehicle needs to be in a proper location. A flat, dry, and clean surface such as a driveway or parking lot is prime; a gravel lot that is relatively clean will suffice, though. If neither is accessible, surfaces such as grass or dirt will do; however, mud may splash onto the vehicle when the hose is aimed at the wheels. If the vehicle is washed on grass or dirt then the vehicle should be left until the ground and vehicle are both dry before the vehicle is moved. Washing the Paintwork In order to avoid deep scratches, the vehicle must be rinsed thoroughly before a sponge is applied. To do this, always begin at the top of the vehicle and rinse down. If the weather is particularly hot that day, the process will most likely require repeating, even after just a few minutes. Always make sure that the section of the vehicle that is being washed is wet. Pour a liberal amount of soap into the bucket (making sure it is free of debris first) and then fill it up with water. Follow the manufacturers recommended instructions for which quantities of soap and water to use. Dip the sponge into the water and wait for it to absorb as much soapy water as it can. Squeeze the sponge repeatedly while swirling it around in the water. Squeeze excess water out of the sponge and then apply it to the roof of the vehicle. Always wipe the vehicle's surface in straight motions (to avoid making fine swirl makrs), remember to begin with the roof and work down the sides to the bottom of the vehicle. If the weather is hot, then soap the vehicle in small sections (I.E. a panel at a time), and then rinse immediately. If not, the heat can dry the soap onto the vehicle's paint.  |