The weather begrudgingly gave us a beautiful day on March 10th. After the Eastern area breakfast 41 members took a short drive to Dirty Details facility in Virginia Beach. Many FSR members know Dirty Details from their sponsorship of Air & Auto; some members have even availed themselves of their services.
Joe McGrath started Dirty Details about 10 years ago as a wash and wax operation. He soon foresaw the need for a true “high end” detail shop in the area and has developed a loyal customer base of owners of enthusiast automobiles. In fact, our own Ken Thomas is a repeat customer and his beautiful 993 was in the shop for a “touch up” after three years.
Joe discussed the differences between the various products and processes involved. One tidbit I found interesting; Joe works with the shop dark. The only lighting comes from a set of lights mounted on a head strap, sometimes supplementing that with lights mounted on his workstation. Joe feels this gives him a perfect environment to see flaws that need correction. Another observation I found refreshing after watching YouTube videos by the various celebrity detailers; Joe feels that some of the tools and techniques are overkill. Looking at his work on Ken’s car I am convinced he has a point – he gets beautiful results without heroics.
After the event I received positive comments from several attendees, so we’ll try to have another winter tech event next year.
