Im a first time Zanio user...

Should I order the Clay Bar and The Pre-Cleaner or just the cleaner,, or both???

IS the clay bar worth it???

 

You either order Z1 Polish Lok or ZFX for first time use, not both. Z1 really isn't a paint cleaner. It's main job is to help activate or bond the Z2 or Z5 to your paint. So, unless you get ZFX, Z1 is a must for the system to work properly.

Now about clay bars. If you have never used on on your paint before, it's definitely worth it. Try this trick, and you decide if you need to remove contaminants. After you've thoroughly washed your car and dried it, take a plastic sandwich baggie over your hand and lightly rub over the hood (or any panel) of your car with your fingers. If it feels really gritty almost like sandpaper, you definitely need to clay. If it's already very smooth and you feel no bumps or grit, don't bother with clay. I can almost bet you'll feel a lot of grit.

Hope that helps!

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*Mike's 1992 Camaro RS 25th Anniv.*
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Metal \M/

 

Thanks for the info,
I ordered both Z1 and ZFX so I can cancel the order on the Z1 right???


My plan is to hardcore wash my car with dawn soap, let it dry. Use the clay bar then wash the car again with dawn but only for over it once.. Is this right???


[This message has been edited by Espo (edited March 05, 2002).]

 

Technically, you won't need the Z1 that you ordered since you also got ZFX. But, it's always good to keep spare Z1 around IMHO, so I'd just keep it and store it for a while. Who knows you might use it in the future on your car or someone elses.

For the prep work: Wash with DAWN the first time and dry the car. Then, use your Z7 wash as the lube for the clay. I fill a bucket half full of water with Z7 mixed in and coat the surface with suds, then start claying that area. Do small to medium size areas at a time, and use moderate or light pressure on the bar. After you're done claying, simply rince the suds off the car and dry it and you're ready for your first coat of ZFX. There's no need to wash with DAWN again after claying unless you're planning on using a swirl remover product like 3M or Meguiar's.

 

Thanks for all the info Mike I really appreciate it!!!

Unfortunately I didnt order the Z7 because I spent enought cash on the wax (CDN to US funds ) so what can I use as the lube for the clay bar???

 

Hey, no problem, I enjoy helping others.

What?! You didn't order Z7?! j/k

Seriously though, you can use another car wash solution just as well. My first choice would be Meguiar's wash if I ran out of Z7 in a pinch. It's not as good as Z7 but will serve the purpose. You can use the same technique, just fill the bucket and soap up the panels....should work fine.