Windshield Repair Forum

hello Everyone,
Let me start by saying this forum is GREAT ! I have been considering WSR for some time now but wasnt sure it could be profitable enough by itself. After reading the marketing strategies and start up tips I am convinced this is what I need to be doing.
Can anyone tell me how I should decide on the right equipment and training Also is there anyone in the ohio area that might be interested in a student for a day or two

Invest in a Delta kit- and get the 2nd bridge, you'll be glad you did!
Ken

I'm leaning towards Delta just wondering ...Can I really learn to repair a windshield from a video. .... ????
I just have the thought of knowing how to do one in my gargae then heading out and cracking the first one I do

I am impressed at how sensitive and precise the Delta injector is. I currently use 4 injectors from a competitor and 1 delta. I had a chip today which was starting to sprout legs. I ripped off my other injector, put the delta on to finish up and all went fine. The one draw back, in my opinion, is on BIG chips where you have to pull out lots of air and pump in lots of resin. It can be done. it just takes more cycles and adding resin. I think if my delta injector would crack out a chip it would crack out no matter what. The adjustability, precise handling and spring pressure are just a wonderful combination. You won't go wrong with this tool.

Welcome to the forum. There are a number of good WSR kits available. I personally used and was trained on the Glass Mechanix Power Vac Injector, but have also used the Delta injector. They are both great pieces of equipment. As far as training by video, I would highly suggest some hands on training with an experienced WSR tech or going through one of the factory certified class. There are so many elements of the repair business that will not come as easy as it might apear on the video!! This is definitely a way to become discouraged in the first several weeks of your business. Get some training if at all possible, and good luck in getting your business started.

Yes, it is very possible to learn to do good repairs by watching a video. But that should not be the extent of your training. Forums such as this provide wonderful ongoing training , even for the most seasoned veterans. I agree with mike, that there is nothing better than one-on-one training from an experienced professional, and factory training is superior. Even so, it is important to practice, practice,practice... until setting up, taking down, and filling the breaks seems second nature to you. As soon as you get your system, get a scrap windshield and practice, practice, practice. Use a spring-loaded center punch to make stars, and a bulls eye maker to make (what?) bulls eyes. And dont be afraid to ask questions here. With very few exceptions, we are happy to be of help.

Jax, take advantage of the factory training available wherever you buy your equipment if possible. I wasted a lot of time not knowing what I was doing wrong, the training class I took at Glas-Weld was excellent and solved some of the problems I'd been having. Also lots of practice!!

1 more question I've read in here, weather, as being a big factor (too hot too cold ) can i still do quality work in parking lots when the ice and snow hits
This is probably a duh question but I want to start working at this ASAP and figure I wont be ready to do "pay" work for a couple 2 -3 months. I sold cars for 1 dealer that I figure will at least give me a shot but I dont want to rely on that solely
Again Thank you to everyone for the advice.

Jack

PS
What does everyone think of of this biz name
Houdini's Winshield Repair " We make chips disappear"
(too corny)

jax731,

Weather conditions can make repair difficult at times. Whether it's 90+ degrees or 10-15 degrees. I personally prefer it hot and dry. Doing good repairs in 20 or below temps will be challenging but not impossible when using the proper resin and cold weather procedures. It all depends on you and what you can handle. I find my biggest problem in the winter is finding the damage. Sometimes the hits will fill with water, then freeze and make them totally undetectable or the glass is so frosted over you won't see them unless you scrap every windshield you look at.

Simple advice to you is expect your December-March sales to be 40%-50% less in your Ohio area then it would be during spring, summer and fall months. During winter months are when you need to find and work indoor accounts or like GlassStarz does......work the car wash business.