Originally posted by Tom T
Just wanted to summarize & clarify a few of the comments you received in the 1st reply. I won a '79 Vette and a new BMW 3
and am a member of detailing boards where there are some fanatics. Most suggest the following;
1) Good wash w/car wash soap of course
2) Remove/Minimize Swirl Marks - 3M SMR or Meguiar's #9.. Might have to do it several times. Go easy & use 100% Made in USA Cotton towels only.
3) Wash again to remove any residual oils
4) Polish to nourish the paint either with Meguiar's #7 or P21S GEPC (glaze enhancing piant cleanser). Most prefer the p21S cause it's easier to remove
5) Wash lightly to remove any oils once again
6) Finish with a good wax or polish.... most on those boards love the P21S Wax or their S100 Wax that is available at Harleigh shops. Other favorite is Zaino polish which I use which everyone absolutely loves, but it's a multi-step process that takes more time.
Most important is to lightly work at removing most of the swirls and then polishing the car afterwards. Prep work is THE MOST critical is what I have been taught.
Good Luck!
Tom
That is a nice step-by-step explanation, and referring products by name is helpful since there are so many out there claiming to be the best. I do have a few questions to ask.
1) What is the recommended applicator/buffer (regular 100% cotton towel, terry cloth, microfiber, etc. ) for each step? I am planning on hand-buffing since I do not want to spend the money for a buffer.
2) For second and third wash (to remove leftover oils), is it a must to use car wash soap? Can't I just rinse with water?
3) If I wanted to use claybar, do I need to wash the car before using 3M SMR?
Thank you.