What's In DFB's Cabinet?

[skinnyb]

I am so sorry for your loss. It’s going to take time to grieve and to come to grips with this. Anyone who has experienced loss will understand this. Take what you need. We’re here for you if you need us. Otherwise we will see you when you’re ready.

Agreed. Our pets are family... Sometimes more so than human family unfortunately. I still am not over it 2 years later...

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[Bikeman315]

Agreed. Our pets are family... Sometimes more so than human family unfortunately. I still am not over it 2 years later...

Mia crossed over the rainbow bridge on 7/24/18. Miss her everyday.

 

[kilobravo]

My dear friend, words cannot express how sad I was to read that last post and since I hadn't visited here for a couple days, I hadn't seen the first so this one took me by surprise. Like you, I have a very special place in my heart for my canine friends so I know where you are about now. They bring us happiness and joy all day, every day, they never complain, and all they ask in return is loving tenderness, a warm place to sleep, and food and drink.

My brother just lost one of his pups and I decided to make a collage of those we've lost so I can say "hey" from time to time.

I have tears running down my cheeks thinking about you and your loss because I have an aging male Dobie and I think about "that day" all the time so I give him as much love and attention as I can and I know from your posted photos that you were doing the same.

Time is the only salvation unless you decide to get another, which I highly recommend. We've had two breeder pups and eleven rescued Dobies over the years and these two are the last because the wife and I are getting too old to handle hundred+ pound pups and just writing this sentence is testing my emotions.

My recommendation is to stay busy and try not to dwell on the loss, which will certainly be difficult but the sadness does diminish..eventually. That said, a new pup for the house will accelerate the healing dramatically.

Again, my most sincere condolences to you and yours.

 

[Evolvd]

I'm saddened by your loss Deyon. Pets are just as much a part of the family as any human and the loss of them affects us deeply. Take solace in knowing you gave him the best life he could have and that you were there for him in the end to relive him of his pain and suffering. It wasn't betrayal, it was compassion and mercy.

 

[DFB5.0]

I've always said detailing has been my distraction when things are tough, this is no different and I hope the following posts don't come across the wrong way. I'm just trying to keep busy..........................

2025 XR6 Detail – Part 2

Picking up where I left of, that means more polishing, most of which being the more intricated areas.

Polishing (continued) -

Because I hate polishing front bumpers, I decided to get this out of the way first. Before starting, I added some additional taping around fog light bezels, headlights and grill inserts. Again, Carpro Reflect was teamed with an orange ShineMate polishing pad. For the more intricate sections, the iBrid Nano was used with the 12mm orbit and Rupes yellow foam pad.

Once the front bumper was done, I began rolling through the doors, side skirts, wing mirrors and glossy black B-pillar trims. For the doors, I used all three machines. The Nano was used around the handles, the EB212 3-inch for the belt line, contoured lower section and side skirts, the HLR15 5-inch for mid sections. The B-pillar trims and mirrors were next, the Nano with yellow Rupes pads were used here, one on the machine and one used by hand.

I set up the camera to show the EB212 in action -



Glass -

With the paint done, it was time to polish the glass. I like polishing glass, although not necessarily for the task itself. Instead, I love how polished glass disappears from behind the steering wheel.

To start, I needed additional taping around the windows to prevent staining the rubber trims and protect surrounding paintwork. Choice of compound was P&S Clarity Crème, first with the Nano in rotary mode for around the edges, followed by the EB212 and blue Lake Country cutting pad for the bulk.

With glass polishing, keep in mind that you aren’t really “correcting” the surface like you would with paint. Even with heavy duty compounds and pads, it will take your hours to remove a single scratch…………..if you are lucky. In which case, Carpro Ceri-Glass or Cerium Oxide teamed with a rayon pad would be your best bet. In my case, glass polishing is about deep cleaning. I like to use Clarity Crème, but any medium to heavy cutting compound teamed with foam or wool pads will also do the job, I'd probably avoid microfiber pads due to the higher heat generation.

Protection –

I’m done with ceramic coatings on garage queens. Longevity and ultimate chemical resistance are not a factor, especially with how “we” tend to continue topping things off with detailers and spray sealants. This is why after 5-years, the XR6 still showed supreme water behaviour. Having said that, on daily drivers a coating is probably a better option, but even then, I must prefer the user experience of a wax or sealant, far less stressful. There, I said it, again.

So, once again I’m reaching for an old favourite…………the now discontinued (in Australia) Wolfgang Deep Gloss Paint Sealant. I landed on this product way back in the early 2010’s after searching for something new/better than the Meguiar’s NXT paste wax and Autoglym Extra Gloss Protection that I had been using. This was back when Waxit was a sponsor of a local forum, so I reached out asking for advice, the reply suggested I try DGPS as it would suit the dark blue Sensation paint. I’ve used it on and off ever since. Are there better sealants out there, probably. Are there easier to apply LSP’s available, probably. Do I enjoy using the product, absolutely. Does the end result give me a sense of satisfaction, absolutely. Does the paint look and feel amazing, 100% yes. I remember not long after using DGPS for the first time, a family friend dropped around while I was washing the XR6, he instantly wanted to know what I had on the paint, he’d seen nothing like it before.

Prior to application, I used compressed air to blast out any polish dust from the door jambs and panel gaps. This was then followed by a heavy wipe down using Carpro Eraser.

As always, for the large areas I apply DGPS with a 5-inch dual action polisher and soft black waxing pad. I went with the ShineMate EB351 for this task because speed one on this unit is considerably slower than the Rupes, and for waxing you don't want or need pad speed. Intricate areas were treated with a foam applicator pad by hand. Once the entire vehicle is coated, leave the sealant to bond for 30 - 45min, then buff the residue. The wipe off is super smooth if applied in a light, even manner, however I recommend at least 4 to 6 towels to do this to prevent dust build up. You must then allow 12-hours for DGPS to cure before exposure to moisture.

 

[DFB5.0]

Thank you to all that posted and reached out, it means more than you know. I think I was so numbed yesterday, it all happened so quickly. Today has been horribly tough, I haven’t felt this level of pain since my mentoring grandmother passed 15 years ago. I now understand what people describe as feeling empty, a sense of breathlessness and a deep tension from within that cannot to be elevated.

 

[DFB5.0]

2025 XR6 Detail – Part 3

The following post covers the finishing touches.

Glass –

With the glass polished, it was time to get something back on it. After removing all of the remaining tape from the vehicle, I went around with a towel and Carpro Eraser to lift off any remaining polish residue and dust from the window rubbers and trims, a task I always hate doing but has to be done. All exterior glass was wiped down with Eraser, followed by undiluted IPA.

Product of choice for the glass was Gyeon Quick View. Applied to all glass and left to bond for at least 5-minutes, the residue is buffed using a damp towel. I follow with glass cleaner for a streak free finish.

Rear Bumper Diffuser –

I had planned on applying Solution Finish to this unpainted black plastic bumper insert. However, after cleaning with Eraser and IPA, the surface came up pretty good. So instead, I applied a heavy coating of Carpro Reload and called it good.

At some point I need to clean and scuff the inside of the exhaust tip in preparation for a dusting of fresh black paint. I've done this a few times over the life of the car.

Grill Treatment –

Ford used a strangle semi-gloss plastic on the FG XR upper and lower grills, not full piano black as is the current fad, but not unpainted black plastic either. I treat these areas in one of two ways, a spray and rinse sealant such as Hydr02, or a very obscure product from my Autoglym days………………..today I went with the later.

Autoglym Instant Show Shine is hard to describe. At first glance, you’d assume this is an aerosol trim dressing like Mothers Naturally Black, however you can also use it on paint and glass. I therefore have no idea what’s in it, but for whatever reason it works really well on areas that are hard to reach or fiddly to detail. Being an aerosol, its super easy to get full coverage of intricate grills like this, simply spray and wipe away the residue.

This is the last Autoglym product I have in my cabinet, purely because of its unique USP. Back in the 2000’s, we didn’t have access to online ordering in Australia until late in the decade. That meant an auto store was your only product outlet unless you knew of a body shop or paint retailer who stocked a special brand. And so Autoglym was a step above what was available in auto stores at the time. Now? Well apart from a few bits and pieces, they are making legacy products that haven’t been changed in 20 years. Once online shopping became available, and Bowden’s became big, there wasn’t any reason to buy Autoglym anymore, they got left behind.

With the tyres dressed and the engine bay wiped down, that’s a wrap on the XR6 detail.

Thanks for reading.

 

[Evolvd]

Thank you to all that posted and reached out, it means more than you know. I think I was so numbed yesterday, it all happened so quickly. Today has been horribly tough, I haven’t felt this level of pain since my mentoring grandmother passed 15 years ago. I now understand what people describe as feeling empty, a sense of breathlessness and a deep tension from within that cannot to be elevated.

Grief is the worst emotion to go through. But it has the most meaning. It means you’ve loved something more than yourself.

 

[radar]

During Covid we had to say farewell to Ivy. I visited my son’s place. The last image I have of her is turning to watch me leave as if to say, “don’t worry, I’m going to be ok”. Even she knew it was time.

Her pic is not on this phone, but you get the idea. Best wishes D.

 

[DFB5.0]

Another tough day.

I got out of the house to do some Christmas shopping, then ended up driving down to a favourite walking spot, then immediately broke down, again. It was raining when I arrived and while I sat there trying to regain composure. It felt so wrong to get out of the car and get started on the lap, someone was missing, someone was left behind and was missing out. Every tree, every stop point, that patch of paspalum we always had to check out, all a trigger. And yet, shortly after setting off, the rain stopped, the sky cleared to blue, the sun came out. I could almost hear his footsteps behind me.

Upon return to the car, I sat in silence wondering if things will get better because this is too much to bear. The hurt, the feeling of letting him down, the feeling he is missing out, the feeling he has been forgotten. Then feeling sh.t at the thought of no longer being on edge every time he got sick. I feel guilty wondering if another could alleviate this lonely emptiness, it's too soon to have those thoughts, it would break his heart to see. The thought of packing up his things in an attempt to protect myself from the grief triggers, again, it's too soon, but also when is the right time? Then there is the dread of all of those feelings.

I eventually got going again and just drove. A trip to the Ford dealer, some loud music, distractions, all helped. I also decided to look into how I want Faych commemorated, we were given a pamphlet on Friday, but it was just too much to consider then. I just hope what I have selected is fitting, that it will keep his memory alive but also give me some closure and acceptance. I will say, some of what is being offered comes across as a cash grab by the company offering these services, preying on people in a vulnerable state who think spending big will make it all better................ that could just be my grief talking though. I'm also cognisant of wanting him with me forever, but without turning into a neurotic mess every time I forgot to "bring him along".

Surprisingly, making those decisions has helped. Also, the realization that his body was simply the vessel for his kind soul, which is now living in our hearts and memories. I have to believe that at the moment, I have nothing else.

This is so hard.

 

[DFB5.0]

During Covid we had to say farewell to Ivy. I visited my son’s place. The last image I have of her is turning to watch me leave as if to say, “don’t worry, I’m going to be ok”. Even she knew it was time.

Her pic is not on this phone, but you get the idea. Best wishes D.

I had a couple of those moments too, it breaks my heart over and over.

 

[skinnyb]

Man I can totally relate to what you are going thru. I got him at 8 weeks, a puppy, and lost him exactly 1 month before he turned 14. My buddy wasn't an "outside" dog, he was allergic to grass and broke out anytime he was outside much. We did go out on occasion, but I tried to keep him on hard surfaces. I went thru all those emotions, coming home and expecting to hear his nails clicking across the floor to come greet me, his warm body against mine at night as we slept and sitting in the recliner chilling after work. It took me a good couple of weeks to pack up all his toys and stuff, and I stayed busy with my Mustang friends, and my detailing addiction kicked into high gear about that point too . I was able to repurpose his pee pads at work as I regularly use them to keep my work surface clean. I was able to donate his food and supplies to the local pet shelter...

As for memorializing him, my vet was able to get paw and nose prints, and I put them in a frame with his collar tag. Also many years ago, way before he passed a good friend of mine made me a stain art portrait of him, I keep it hanging in my living room and see and pass by him every day, still even speak to him on occasion just like he is still here...

 

[kilobravo]

Upon return to the car, I sat in silence wondering if things will get better because this is too much to bear.

When I read this just now, I couldn't read any further, Deyon but I wanted to tell you that while time is the only salvation, rescuing a pup from a kill shelter will hasten the recovery a great deal. Whether you go that route or not though, the pain will subside but it will take a considerable amount of time. Saving another pup is what I have always done and I highly recommend it.

I'm not a religious person but rest assured that you will be in my mind and I will have the best of thoughts for you.

Most sincerely..

 

[Adam the Lighting Guy]

Agreed. Our pets are family... Sometimes more so than human family unfortunately. I still am not over it 2 years later...

You and I both. It's been just over 2 yrs since Duddley had to go. R.I.P. " DuddleBugMcFudge".

 

[Gen 6 Mach1]

Another tough day.

I got out of the house to do some Christmas shopping, then ended up driving down to a favourite walking spot, then immediately broke down, again. It was raining when I arrived and while I sat there trying to regain composure. It felt so wrong to get out of the car and get started on the lap, someone was missing, someone was left behind and was missing out. Every tree, every stop point, that patch of paspalum we always had to check out, all a trigger. And yet, shortly after setting off, the rain stopped, the sky cleared to blue, the sun came out. I could almost hear his footsteps behind me.

Upon return to the car, I sat in silence wondering if things will get better because this is too much to bear. The hurt, the feeling of letting him down, the feeling he is missing out, the feeling he has been forgotten. Then feeling sh.t at the thought of no longer being on edge every time he got sick. I feel guilty wondering if another could alleviate this lonely emptiness, it's too soon to have those thoughts, it would break his heart to see. The thought of packing up his things in an attempt to protect myself from the grief triggers, again, it's too soon, but also when is the right time? Then there is the dread of all of those feelings.

I eventually got going again and just drove. A trip to the Ford dealer, some loud music, distractions, all helped. I also decided to look into how I want Faych commemorated, we were given a pamphlet on Friday, but it was just too much to consider then. I just hope what I have selected is fitting, that it will keep his memory alive but also give me some closure and acceptance. I will say, some of what is being offered comes across as a cash grab by the company offering these services, preying on people in a vulnerable state who think spending big will make it all better................ that could just be my grief talking though. I'm also cognisant of wanting him with me forever, but without turning into a neurotic mess every time I forgot to "bring him along".

Surprisingly, making those decisions has helped. Also, the realization that his body was simply the vessel for his kind soul, which is now living in our hearts and memories. I have to believe that at the moment, I have nothing else.

This is so hard.

Very well said DFB , I was there with my German Shepherd Heidi ,I was bless to have her 11 years 1985 to 1996 . And I couldn't and wouldn't replace her. 21 years later , 2017 my wife and I decided to bring a wonderful member into our life . Her name is Annie Bluegirl a beautiful Chocolate Labrador. It been 29 years since that day at the Vets , I brought her home buried her in a wonderful setting in our side yard with a wonderful monument. I felt it was ok 21 years later to welcome a new family member, and wouldn't tarnish any part of Heidi's memory, bring Annie home . This is just me ,for some bringing in a new family member sooner is the right decision . Time heals but but memories are a life time .
Take Care stay Xtra busy for now .

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