Fyrcat

The other day, we were driving past an individual who had just washed his car, and was using a small leaf blower to blow the water off his car. I thought that looked like a brilliant idea, and was wondering if anyone here has ever done this? Of course, I would follow up with towels to finish the drying. But for blowing the water out of normally trapped areas that drip after wiping, this might help stop that...any thoughts or concerns?

SteveDeech

I have been doing it for years. It is an excellent way to dry the car. A little more time consuming but well worth it. It get's water out of places that it normally lays in. It also prevents swirl marks from drying with a towel or even a microfiber towel.

hoosier1

Only concern is blowing dirt and debris inside hard to reach areas such as around the doors. Just make sure that the car is really clean and rinsed before using the blower. I have used a leaf blower on occasion and followed with spray detailer and microfiber towels.

GSteg

iTrader: (15)

I always use my (cordless) leaf blower. Getting water out of crevices is worth it alone. I finish up with a towel. If your paint beads water, then it works even better.

Aron9000

Old detailing trick I've used for years. Keeps water from running out of the trunk shut line or mirrors, especially useful on black or dark colored cars. Also a great way to dry the engine off if you cleaned it.

NateJG

I use a cordless one with regular success.

My two-stroke Homelite's exhaust is directed out through the blower tube, so I don't risk using it to dry the paint because of the oil vapor; but I have used it to dry the wheels and undercarriage.

trbosmitty

iTrader: (2)

Electric leaf blowers do a fantastic job. I recently upgraded to the Master Blaster as I'm looking to start my own side detailing business and I can say that its worth its weight in gold. Might be overkill for some.

Dr. Jekyll

iTrader: (1)

For those who want a cheaper alternative this is the 4HP version, don;t be fooled by the "motorcycle" as it's more than powerful enough for autos. I've used it on everything from motorcycles to trucks and vans and it works like a charm!

zmcgovern4

iTrader: (2)

... but once you know what 8HP feels like, 4HP is not enough

We have the 8HP Master Blaster, 4HP Commercial Vac N Blo, and Blaster Sidekick. All are awesome tools!

trbosmitty

iTrader: (2)

Bingo!!

8hp version is worth its weight in gold! Especially in Las Vegas where i have to get the water off the car ASAP after I wash it. Otherwise I'm wrestling with water spots.

lexusnutt

When I read another thread on this in the RCF forum, I rushed out and got the EGO leaf blower at Home Depot (caught the $99 sale) and it's cut my car washing time in half not to mention no more swirls! Works especially well if the car is coated or freshly waxed.

Found an updated 8HP Master Blaster with front swivel wheels and includes a 30' hose.

sydtoosic

my metro blaster sidekick is enough... leaf blower kicks up lots of dirt that you do not see. my little sidekick does not. she is in ICU right now, have to get her fixed.

Fyrcat

I just purchased the sidekick and the 3' hose attatchment...it's awesome! I loved drying my NX fsport, especially the grill!

Macs4RX

I use my electric leaf blower to remove light, fluffy snow (doesn't work so well with "heavy" snow having a high water content). I bring out a 5' stepladder and start on the roof and work my way down. Works very well for snow up to several inches deep. And I don't risk scratches by using a snow brush with nylon bristles.

User 41924

I was already thinking about a cordless leaf blower to dry the cars, but I can't get past worrying about what I might blow into the paint. Plus, aren't they awkward when you're doing the roof? Especially on an SUV! Given both of these thoughts, I started to think about a SideKick. Small and light, and all you have to lift to do the roof is the hose. Plus, it filters the air. Does it move enough air?