Snow foam

[Eric H]

Snow foam seems to be a big buzz in the auto detailing world. Is there a way to utilize this product in a SS bay?

 

[washnshine]

In a self serve, you could apply your presoak with a foaming gun and coat the car with similar results. I’d apply something like a presoak or foamy wax product with this method. Just putting foam brush soap through it will put on a show, but not add any tangible quality to the wash process. They can get that foam by using the foam brush.

 

[OurTown]

We looked into doing something like it but it looks like it is made for detailers to hand wash. If you put presoak through a foam gun and get it to look like that then it might be expensive per minute. Also like 2Biz has done you will need a blow down system or weep in the winter. I still want to try it though.

 

[MEP001]

You probably won't get a thick foam like that with a low-pressure system. Detailers use a pressure washer with at least 1000 PSI, and the foam cannon uses a venturi to pull the soap and air at the tip to mix it. Another issue is the amount of chemical needed - the foam cannon has a 32 oz. reservoir and it uses it up in about a minute. I've set up presoak systems at 150 PSI and even then you can't get a good quantity to the bay unless you run it really wet. IMO the only way we'll see anything like snow foam in a self serve is if someone figures a way to get 1000 PSI of air pressure to the bay to mix with the liquid.

 

[Eric H]

...you will need a blow down system or weep in the winter. I still want to try it though.

I assumed I would need to apply with a gun similar to the tri-foam gun (I don’t have Tri-foam and don’t want it). The weep issue is probably the deal breaker for me.
I’ve been watching some detailing videos lately and those guys really love the snow foam. I’m just thinking of a way to convert the “I want to bucket wash for 45 minutes using my 2 bucket system with grit guard” and Chemical Guys worshippers to a better (more profitable) system.

 

[bighead]

a lot of chemical companies have a foaming soap for the entrance of tunnels, i would think you could probably use that product, it shouldn't cost to much

I have a wiota tri foam in the bays at one of my washes, and the weep system is built in (we don't use it- its too mild over here) but i wouldn't think it would be too hard to pull off. Many of my tri foam customers put it on before the foam brush use anyway, so adding a snow foam/presoak would be a good idea by my estimation.

 

[Waxman]

Back in the 90's I used a Gilmour foamer in my detail shop. It was ok. I think it's more of a novelty thing than a fab cleaning tool. You want a way to really clean the heck out of a car? Rinse the heavy dirt with HP soap then mist finish with Trans Mate TM086 cut 50/50 with water. Scrub / wax / rinse / blow dry.