Priviate aircraft washing

[tzahlman]

I have a small priviate airport in my area and am interested in getting into washing those planes. Has anyone ever done this type of work if so what is the average price for personal aircraft? what things should I look for as far as dangers? any other advice is appreciated.

Thanks
Tom@CleanImage powerwashing

 

[ron]

i looked into it once

as far as price i would price same as a truck.as far as chems/soaps they should be approved . Something about some of the ingreadiants messing with the metals in landing gear. If just sandpipers and stuff with stationary landing gear i dont think your reg soaps would be a proplem but i would stay away from caustics and alum brightner.

 

[WashWagon]

The best way to learn about aircraft washing is to talk to someone who owns one. They can show you what to watch out for when spraying. They are things to be cautious and careful about, especially on helicopters (those propellers can not be touched the wrong way). Aircraft are usually easy to clean because airplane paint is a lot slicker than car paint and there is never road film to wash off. Usually just bugs on the front and exhaust from the engine. I charge more for doing aircraft versus doing a truck. Here is why:
1. There are a lot of places that you can take a truck to get it washed.(you can not exactly fly over to an airplane detail shop).
2. Aircraft can run in the $1,000,000.00 price range easily.(They are worth a lot of money, so the owners must be worth a lot too.)
3. You have to be careful on the delicate parts. (sensors,propellors, etc.)

Offer a free wash or discount to an owner if he shows you everything you need to know. Most I have dealt with love to share information and show you how much they know(show off). You may even score a free flight.

 

[Dan S]

I dont rob 'em b/c i too fly.......... just b/c they have a plane does'nt mean they have money........... they are just farther in debt then we are......

You do however have to be carefull on how you wash 'em ..... dont let any soap sit on anything for a long time.....
RINCE RINCE and RINCE some more.

If you have any doupt on price.........charge by the hour

 

[tzahlman]

Thanks for all the replys, I'm going to give it a shot.

Thanks again

Tom@CleanImage Powerwashing

 

[Tim Smith]

Dan

Do you do a lot of business washing planes? Is there a certain type of chem to use on planes?

 

[Dan S]

non caustic<<<<<<< I just use my normal soap I use when I do a truck.... but ya got to watch around the engines ....... dont get to picky....... rince rince rince..... use less pressure ..... and for petes sake dont use a TURBO...... ........ yes they do work well ... but ya dont want to strip any wires on the plane or ripp any lettering off........

No I dont do alot maybe around 6 - 7 in a month The only reason I do them is my Pastor flys and his community Plane needs a scrubbing now and again. so while im up there I make it worth my while..... I try and stay away from the engine compartment... as a matter of fact I dont even do it any more.... unless they are going to re-build it and or tear it down for some reason.......

as far as alum . brightner I disagree you can use that as well just dont let it dry anywhere.....watch the glass.. dont let it dry or sit on the wipers either..... RINCE RINCE RINCE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!