OK, I've been searching the threads for a while now. It seems that everyone's procedure for washing and waxing varies a little. Here is what I plan to do to my '97 polo green Z28 on my next day off. I have bad swirl marks on my car and it needs help. The majority contention is that Zaino offers the best line of products but unfortunately I will not be using them. I also have a orbital buffer to hopefully help me out. Please give me some advice on whether or not I've pieced all these threads together correctly.

1. wash car
2. clay bar
3. wash again
4. swirl remover
5. polish
6. wax

thanks,
Hank

 

Your routine looks near right. You will only need to wash once. You will have to decide what type of result you are looking for in terms of shine definition. If you want to have the best that your car's paint can obtain, then you need to compare several very good carnauba waxes as well as synthetics. Zaino is a good system, but it definitely isn't the only game in town.

Decide on your priorities in terms of a paint finish, then do some comparing, and then you will know what type of finish product to use.

 

If your orbital buffer is a Wal-Mart or parts store type, it won't be of much help.

You might look into a Porter Cable: http://bettercarcare.com/articles.php?articleId=47

I suggest Menzerna or Einszett polishes.

 

Recommend 3-M rubbing compounds. There are several grades. Pick the one that suits your needs (probably the one that removes swirl marks, but you might get the next step up while your there).

Use Dawn dishwashing soap to begin with since it will remove the wax and dirt. After you get the swirls out use a good quality wax like Maguire.

Only use good quality towels with egyption cotton made in the ole USA for waxing and buffing, drying off, etc. (cannon or fieldcrest, etc. in white)

Once waxed don't use anything like Dawn again unless you want to remove the wax you just put on. JMHO

 

It would be really good for you to fit in a paint sealer before the wax as well..That will bring out the ultimate shine. Only thing then is, you must let the sealer sit for 24 hours to fully dry before you add a coat of wax to end the detail job. Here is what I think you should do.

1. wash car
2. clay bar
3. Compound IF NEEDED (w/ your orbital buffer)
4. swirl remover ( since swirl removers contain polish there is no need to use a polish again.)
5. Paint Sealer ( Wolfgang's works really good )
6. Let it sit for 24's hours for the sealer to dry.
7. wax

 

i dont know about letting the sealant sit for 24 hours but you can remove it after you have applied it. Or you can wait 30 minutes then remove it, however some sealant must "cure" for 24 hours before you decide to top it w/ a carnuba wax. While working w/ WG i usually remove it after 15 minutes and it hasnt done any harm.

 

when i was saying to let it sit for 24 hours...i meant after u obviously rubbed off the sealer that u rubbed on...then...u must allow the sealer to settle and dry ( cure ) fully...sorry for the misinterpretation...