1st Time Steam User; Tips, Techniques, and Warnings?

[kochdalton87]

As the title suggests I purchased a Mculloch MC1385 this past week to add to my detailing arsenal. I have watched Larry Kosilla's video along with a few others but I don't feel 100% comfortable using the steamer mostly because of the heat levels associated with it. I'm open to any tips, tricks, or warnings that you guys may have to boost my confidence level and to use the machine more effectively. Thanks ahead of time and any help is greatly appreciated!

[AeroCleanse]

Don't keep it in the same spot for too long.

[Tato]

+1! More tips! Thanks for that first, indeed.

Almost ordering one for myself.

Kind Regards.

[psdnuts]

if you want to , try it on your own stuff . maybe some spots on a home carpet? maybe a dirty rag ? start on low if there is a setting, then move up if it does not help… just like polishing, dont start at full blast.
just so you know i got vx500 and had a stain in the carpet from the dogs ( was there last 2 or 3 years, and was treated with all kinds of carpet cleaners)- well the stain is gone now. its hard to mess up stuff with steamer just my opinion. if its not coming out in few seconds it might not come out at all… pre-treat the spot with carpet cleaner. or diluted APC
you see, just try it and you be amazed what it does without chemicals.

not a pro at it so this is my advice.

[sdimas]

From what I've been reading, steamers have a tip temperature around 200°F. That should be safe to use pretty much anywhere. I also want to buy this steamer, but I just bought a bunch of stuff, so I'm currently in the process of saving up for this steamer.

[Tato]

Awesome tips, thanks for sharing. Will follow your thoughts since first use.

Can an 'ordinary' steamer like those ones we are talking about (~$100-$300) be used for exterior cleansing as well?

Any tips on engine cleaning with the steamer?

Thanks again.

Kind Regards.

[AeroCleanse]

Awesome tips, thanks for sharing. Will follow your thoughts since first use.

Can an 'ordinary' steamer like those ones we are talking about (~$100-$300) be used for exterior cleansing as well?

Any tips on engine cleaning with the steamer?

It probably isn't going to do a good job of washing a car, it may get off "junk" around emblems and such, or for bug removal.

You can take your time on engines, they are very heat tolerant.

[Tato]

Thanks mate.

What about 'humidity' of vapor on engine?

Thank you very much.

Kind Regards.

[OnsiteDetailing]

Wear gloves so you do not burn your hands.

[mjv231]

As the title suggests I purchased a Mculloch MC1385 this past week to add to my detailing arsenal. I have watched Larry Kosilla's video along with a few others but I don't feel 100% comfortable using the steamer mostly because of the heat levels associated with it. I'm open to any tips, tricks, or warnings that you guys may have to boost my confidence level and to use the machine more effectively. Thanks ahead of time and any help is greatly appreciated!

Great thread... i am on the same boat.. please guys share... thank all of you!