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Old 05-17-2008, 08:56 AM
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Default Re: What kind of Pressure washer for car wash?

Quote:
Originally Posted by LifeTech View Post
8+ years in auto body repair, paint and classic restoration has taught me that P/Washers are NOT great for a paint finish. This is well known. I have been to many Paint System seminars held by Spies Hecker and House of Colors etc. This Topic is discussed much of the time.
I also detailed many classics and race cars for events and photo ops.

As a professional detailer, I imagine it will allow yu high volume for your business and speed up your workload. It also saves money on water usage.

I am very familiar with pressure washers and have several. They can be a burden to maintain.

My favorite is my 6.5 Honda using a Cat pump (made in USA) adjustable to 3K PSI.

But I also have a Karcher that is over 8 years old with no issues.

Stay away from any Italian made pumps.

Electrics serve a purpose, but are not meant for commercial use. It is very easy to abuse and damage a Pressure Washer if not familiar with one. Maintenance and proper storage is key.

I will only occasionally use it on my vehicles paint when very dirty.. But I don't recomend it.
It definitely is essential for the undercarriage, engine and wheel wells.

Pressure washers can shear Wax off the paints surface. It can also pit the paint surface.
A Known fact.
A typical Garden hose full pressure is 40-60 PSI. That is good enough for paint. If yu use a P/washer and can adjust your pressure down to 400 PSI give or take. That is fine.
Watch your Pressure Setting and Use at your own risk. If yu know how to use one carefully it can be useful tool.

LT

Honestly, the body shop crowd and the detailing crowd will ALWAYS have a different opinion on everything. I dont trust body guys with anything but painting and wesanding, anything other than that, I do it myself lol.

I dont know why you are so scared about pressure washers? I use one every day for the past 5 years on cars (1700 psi or 4000 psi) and it's definatly no problem, just have to use common sense. And I also use a commercial electric with a comet pump, and I love the thing, it's perfect for what I do.
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Last edited by Brandon1; 05-17-2008 at 08:58 AM.
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