I just recently got my whole car repainted minus the side view mirrors, top of the hatch and the roof.

I also recently ordered z2, z5, z6 and ZFX. I've recieved everything but the ZFX so far (ZFX is on back order and should come midway through this coming week). I was wonder how you guys recommend putting this stuff on (sequence) and if it's possible for me to use this stuff without the ZFX for now. It's a nice day today, I don't have much to do and I'm not sure how much longer this nice weather is going to last so I would like to at least try this stuff out today. Anyone got any tips?

Also, what do I need for applicators and such? Can I use regular foam wax applicators to put it on and a 100% cotton towel to remove it? Is it ok if I put more coats of wax on the areas that weren't painted so I can remove the swirls and get it looking like the painted area? Any suggestions or info is greatly appreciated. Thanks.


Colin

 

Try to hold off until the ZFX arrives if you can, otherwise applying Z2 and/or Z5 without Z1 or ZFX will compromise durability, and a little gloss too. You can certainly apply it without the ZFX for now, but the bond to the paint won't be very strong. It's not going to hurt anything but you aren't getting the full benefit of the system either.

You should have received a nice thick cotton terry app with your order. Those are recommended to apply all Zaino polishes. Before you apply the polish lightly mist the app with Z6 so that it's moist, but not wet. This helps the polish spread easier and thinner, and lessens the amount of polish the app soaks up. But, my personal favorite is still foam for Zaino. Technically, there's nothing wrong with the cotton, but IMO it soaks up a little too much product for me and it a tad harder to get a thin, even coat too. I like and use the Viking large black foam apps like the kind at AutoZone. They soak up less product and distribute it more even and thin at least in my experience. Others still prefer the cotton, it's up to you....try both and see what suits you.

You MUST use 100% cotton toweling to minimize or avoid swirls and marring when buffing. The best brands I've found are Fieldcrest Charisma, Royal Velvet, POLO and Noble Choice. Right now, my personal picks are POLO and NC though...

Yes, you should apply as many coats of wax you feel are needed on the nonpainted areas. If the swirls are bad, use a light swirl remover, like 3M #39009 or Meguiars' #9 first. Then wash the car, then apply the Zaino.

Here's a basic sequence for initial application:
1. DAWN wash

2. Clay the car using Z7 soap for lube (optional, but highly recommended)

3. Swirl Removal/Paint Cleansers (also optional, but needed if you have tough swirls or need general paint cleaning)

3. a. Wash car again if you decide to use a swirl remover or paint cleaner, otherwise ignore step 3...

4. Mix up ZFX, per directions with Z2 or Z5, and shake well. Let the mixture set for a minute or two, and while you're waiting, give the car a once over with Z6.

5. Apply the ZFX to entie car, wait for it to cure (usually less than 30minutes), and buff off.

6. Z6 car again and start with more ZFX....

7. Smile, because your car will look amazing!

Take a look here also, www.lazaino.com Check out the application page as there are really good tips for first time Zainoers. It's a great supplement to the Zaino website IMO.



HTH!

Mike

 

Thanks very much for the reply. I think I'll wait for the ZFX before i do anything. I want the best shine possible and the most durability so I'll just have to be patient.

BTW, I thought the Z5 did swirls. Should I use the 3M stuff instead? How do I know when to use Z2 and when to use Z5?

Thanks!

Colin

 

Yes, Z5 is for swirls, but very light ones. Z5 is a filler product, not a remover like abrasive products. Z5 will usually do the trick anywhere from 1 to 5 coats on light swirls. If you have medium or heavy swirling and scratching, you'll definitely need an abrasive swirl remover like the 3M stuff before you do the Zaino. Ideally, you want the finish as perfect as possible before the Zaino ever goes on. Being that Zaino polishes are nonabrasive, they are not meant for surface prep, but final protection and gloss.

Some people use only Z5 and others, like myself, enjoy using both Z2 and Z5. You can alternate or interchange either product on the paint as they are completely compatible. If you notice light swirls or spider lines showing up over time, it's time for Z5. The Z5 polish will help eliminate the light marring that occurs on most daily drivers. Otherwise, if you finish looks near perfect, just go with Z2 for the ultimate in high shine, clarity, and reflectiveness.

Mike