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Waxes And Polishes

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Comments

  • mtsangmtsang Member Posts: 70
    I have been reading the posting from you guys with respect to the Zaino products. It sounds great. So great, that I just ordered Z1, Z2 and Z6 for my cars. Can't wait till I get the stuff and apply it to work. Will let you know my impression and experience in due time.

    Q: What can I use to remove over-applied old wax or Zaino from black mouldings, trims and such?

    Thanks.
  • anne4anne4 Member Posts: 35
  • KThomp100KThomp100 Member Posts: 62
    Hi Anne....I do have a Chev 4x4 that I drive as well. I have driven the Lex in the rain it's just that I Z'd it two days ago and didn't want to spoil the job I did by getting it dirty. I will cave in and drive it the rest of the week.
  • ruskiruski Member Posts: 1,566
    I cannot believe it. That's it, I am not getting a Lexus!
  • pblevinepblevine Member Posts: 858
    mtsang:
    Before applying Zaino for the first time, wash your car with DAWN dishwashing liquid. Its the best grease cutter around and will not hurt your clearcoat. This is the recommended method of removing those old wax layers. Then "clay" you car to remove embedded dirt and brake dust. Wash again (and for the last time) with Dawn and dry your car. Then proceed with Z1 and then Z2.
  • mtsangmtsang Member Posts: 70
    pblevine:

    Thanks much for your advice. A couple of follow-up questions (hope you don't mind).

    1. I am not familiar with "clay". Would a simple dawn cleaning be sufficient to prep the car surface before Z'ing?

    2. Any experience on what I can use to remove over-applied old wax on black trims, mouldings and such?

    Thank you.
  • alvinalvin Member Posts: 8
    Don't need to clay, I didn't on my new 99 Jeep Grand Cherokee, then I Z'd and it looks great. Also had a 1990 Honda Accord that I hadn't waxed in a couple of years, I didn't clay that either, just Z'd it and it looks beautiful now! I think the effect of Z'ing the cars is so dramatic that the missing clay step is almost not noticeable to mere mortals.
  • StillwaterStillwater Member Posts: 44
    As with many things YMMV with clay.
    I clayed my Solara about a month after I bought it, before I first Zaino'd it.
    The clay I used (Clay Magic) comes with a thin vinyl glove; with it on, you can really feel the irregularities in the paint. Claying made a distinct difference in the finish.

    mtsang:
    clay is a substance that looks like dense plasticine. It is used with a lubricant (basically, dilute car wash) and rubbed over the car's paint; it removes embedded contaminants. Yes, Dawn will prep the car for Zaino'ing, but Dawn and clay do different things. Dawn removes old layers of wax and the like; clay removes particles. Even new cars have embedded particles, usually rail dust from the trains used to transport them.

    The Dawn may remove the wax from black rubber trim and moldings; otherwise try Wurth Rubber Care; for vinyl, try Vinylex.
  • riccirriccir Member Posts: 16
    Clay Magic (which i had excellent results with....it does make a diff) has the feel of Silly Putty IMO.

    Rick
  • pblevinepblevine Member Posts: 858
    mstang,
    Please read Stillwater's post above. He's got it nailed. When I clayed my brand new Accord, I was surprised at how much brake dust was picked up from a 'new' car. The shipping must have exposed the car's finish to the elements. Again, claying a new car may not be absolutely required, but it sure makes a difference. I use Erazer's brand of clay which I bought over the net (I think their site is: www.erazer.com).
  • RichIITFRichIITF Member Posts: 17
    A co-worker of mine introduced me to a wax product called "Flash." Briefly looking at the label, it is carnuba based with an dupont additive. The results of the wax was impressive but I really don't think it will be as durable as Zaino. I am just curious if anyone here has any experience with this product.
  • pblevinepblevine Member Posts: 858
    To all,
    Have a safe and happy July 4th, and Zaino your cars if you have any spare time!
  • lpcavslpcavs Member Posts: 2
    I keep seeing where people are getting deals on clay. Where are they getting these discounts?
  • sbonemsbonem Member Posts: 1
    I just bought a new Accord (LX-V6, great car) this week and the dealer admonished me several times to never wash it with dishwashing soap, such as dawn. He said it was dishwashing soap are too harsh for car finishes and suggested I use either a product specifically made for car washing or baby shampoo. Any comments on this?
  • sbosesbose Member Posts: 2
    Does Zaino Z-2 Show Car Polish provide the same protection that a high quality car wax would provide? I have a 1999 Concorde LXi - candy apple red clear coat and I'm looking for the best polish or wax to protect and maintain the paint. TIA
  • guitarzanguitarzan Member Posts: 873
    Sbonem, I use Dawn on my CL, and love the way it easily removes grime.

    Sbose, from everything I've heard, Zaino is the best wax available. It was originally used as a show polish, until a professional detailer came in here to let us know about it. Everyone who has used it is elated.
  • sbosesbose Member Posts: 2
    Guitarzan - thanks. I've read through a lot of the Forum messages and it sure looks like the people who use it are pleased with it. I think I'll put in an order. Thanks again.
  • hgileshgiles Member Posts: 66
    This weekend I Zaino'ed my 98 Accord and I was thinking about the people that think using Zaino is some sort of chore. When I used to use Meguiar's and Turtle Wax it was a pain to put on, but it was true work to get it off. You spend time avoiding all black rubber lest you get those crappy permanent streaks, and you have to scrape out of the cracks between doors, etc.
    With this product you just wipe it on, and I mean a light coat (Z1). Then you wipe on the Z2. I got the stuff all over the black rubber around windows and the sunroof (who cares). Then you just wipe it off. I was used to really buffing the car hard to get the carnauba based waxes off and even ones like Nufinish. This weekend I just took a good cotton towel and wiped it off. The shine is good and the beading lasts a long time. People really need to stop making the it's too much work comments and save them for traditional waxes. Be open minded, its easier. I think the reason so many people write in here is because waxing a car is a pain in the ___ and they get good results with Zaino without busting a sweat. If anyone wants to make comments that I'm a Zaino plant and not an average person you should know that I live in Alabama and I'm in the health care field (haven't Zaino'ed any patients yet).
  • pblevinepblevine Member Posts: 858
    sbose,
    Your dealer is correct - technically. Dawn dishwashing liquid is NOT good for your car's clearcoat. Too powerful. BUT: if your car already has layers of wax on it, a one time application of Dawn is the best way to remove the old wax layers prior to using Zaino. After that, give the Dawn to someone who can use it in the kitchen. And after applying Zaino, use an extremely mild car wash such as Zaino's Z7 to gently wash off bugs and dust from your car.
  • msuchonmsuchon Member Posts: 3
    What product does anyone recommend for restoring faded exterior hard black plastic? (Such as the trim around windows, roof rack, etc.)

    I have tried several products, with mixed results. For instance, the first rain causes spotting.

    Thanks.
    - Mark
  • pv1pv1 Member Posts: 5
    Hi People...

    Just have a question for everyone here. I bought Meguirar's cleaner/wax product in addition to their polish #2. I know the polish is supposed to be put on the car before applying meguirar's carnauba wax #3. But i wanted to clean and wax the car with one application instead of buying the cleaner, polisher, and wax separately. Therefore, should i apply the cleaner/wax combo first after a wash and then the polish. Thanks for the help
  • jheflinjheflin Member Posts: 7
    Can't help you with your question.
    I was in the same situation, didn't want to go through the 3 step system. So, since my car is a 98 and the paint is in good condition, I decided to just use the cleaner/wax. Great results. The car is a white pearlesence (spl), but with the Meguirar's wax it has a nice wet look.
    This fall, I may do the 3 step system, when I have more time.
  • drscopemdrscopem Member Posts: 83
    Hi:
    #931 - black plastic renewal
    Make sure that it's plastic and not metal (if metal then it is painted and so should be treated like paint). For EXTERIOR surfaces you have multiple choices. Since you did not mention what you had used, I will mention what I do. You can use Black Again, Meguiar's #40 Vinyl & Rubber Cleaner and Conditioner, Meguiar's #42 Rubber Treatment, Wax Shop's Bumper Black - Trim Dressing and Restorer, or Zaino Z-16 Perfect Tire Gloss. I have used all of these with success. Depending on the condition of the trim, one may work better than another.
    My personal secret for faded black trim that doesn't respond to anything is SHOE POLISH! I have used liquid shoe polish to restain(recolor) the trim to a lusty black. My personal favorite is Kiwi Honor Guard black. It is a polish that is used to give a super shiny patent leather kind of finish. I have used it over faded and white stains due to errant wax with great success. Once the desired finish is obtained, I use one of the products listed above.

    #932 - polish when?
    Polish does not contain any wax so there is nothing to protect the finish after it is polished. Although I would not have chosen what you did, if I had to use them, I would polish first then use the cleaner/wax.

    Good luck.
  • msuchonmsuchon Member Posts: 3
    Wow, shoe polish, who would've guessed? I just may try it if unsuccessful with others.

    I remember about 10 yrs ago reading on an Armor All label that they had a product specifically for hard plastics. I have never found it in stores. May try website..

    Thanks.
  • mtsangmtsang Member Posts: 70
    drscopem:

    Wow, using shoe polish is a neat idea!!! Do you have problem with it coming off on your cloths? and does it last?

    I recently used the McGuire Tire Protectant Gel (about $9/bottle). It advertises that it lasts for weeks, not days. From my experience so far with one application, the shine does not last much after driving through rain. It beads though.
  • KThomp100KThomp100 Member Posts: 62
    This stuff does not work. It is rather time consuming to put on and since I like a gloss shine, I was disappointed. It says that multiple coats will put a glossy shine on your tire and last for weeks. Lasted about 3 days. If you like a shiny wet look--Black Magic "TIRE WET" seems to do the job.
  • hgileshgiles Member Posts: 66
    KThomp100
    I agree with you about the Meguiar's tire gloss. I bought some about a month ago. I used it twice. Waste of money.
  • ejyejy Member Posts: 62
    Many posts ago, someone mentioned a web site company that was selling clay magic (I looked at www.erazure.com but I'd like the ease of credit card payment). Does anyone remember where that was?

    Thanks!
  • pblevinepblevine Member Posts: 858
    I believe the site is: www.erazer.com and yes, you still have to send a check. But it is well worth every penny. And then some. The best example of that happened this last July 4th weekend. I was visiting friends in the Berkshires when my friend Dan's Camry hit a rock which punctured his oil pan. We were on our way to play some softball. When we got back, you could see a significant oil leak. My brother-in-law found the spot, we looked at each other and together said "Clay!". Yep, we used a little bit of Erazer Clay to plug the hole, and my friend Dan was able to drive all the way home. 'comes in handy!
  • cdg19cdg19 Member Posts: 15
    Hi, I haven't had any time to read all the posts here but I'm going to begin waxing my 96 white grand cherokee next week and need some advice. It has a lot of swirl marks and light sratches on it that I want to get out. I suppose the clay bar works well for this? Once I do that, do I wax it? What is the best wax to use besides Zaino. I usually use McGuires which seems to work well. Thanks for any input.
    Chance
  • kevm14kevm14 Member Posts: 423
    I spent many hours today waxing our 96 Maxima SE (it's black).
    I used a 3-step Meguiars process, not including washing.
    I used Dawn to wash this time - normally I use their Gold Class wash.
    I used their Gold Class Cleaner/Swirl Mark Reducer as a first step, then the Deep Crystal System Polish, and finally, Gold Class Liquid Wax.
    THe car looks great (it has so many rock chips it's uncanny....even the WINDshield is pitted)
    We bought the car used a few months ago - it was previously leased in NJ (3 year lease) so I wanted to give the paint protection asap. BTW, this is my 2nd time waxing since we bought it - but last time I didn't use the polish.
  • nancy13nancy13 Member Posts: 9
    What did I do wrong?

    I Z'd my 99 Accord yesterday with Z1 and Z2. I let it dry for a little over an hour on a hi-70's day with no humidity. When I began removing it (with all cotton towels)...it was smearing like crazy. I'd wipe an area several times...run my finger over it and it would smear. After wiping off the entire car, I tried the Z6 in a spot and that just made it worse.

    I think I probably didn't let the Z1, Z2 dry long enough or maybe used too much.

    I drove my car to work today and if it doesn't get too dusty I may try wiping it tonight with a clean towel then try the Z6 again.

    Any suggestions?

    Needless to say I was very disappointed...but I think it was more something I did wrong than a problem with the product...since most of the messages I've read here talk about how much everyone loves Z.
  • jmelchiojmelchio Member Posts: 23
    I had similar problems the first time I tried Zaino. You probably put too much Z1 & Z2 on and did not wait long enough. By the way, alot of people did the same thing on their first try. It takes a few times until you realize just how little Zaino it takes. The smearing was definitely caused by not waiting long enough, and the more Z1 & Z2 you put on, the longer it takes.

    Email Sal Zaino for more info. He's great. Good Luck.
  • fastdriverfastdriver Member Posts: 2,273
    nancy13-

    I've been using ZAINO for almost a year now. From what you say, I think you used too much Z-1 or Z-2. I know that the correct way to put it on seems like it's not enough, but you don't need a lot. It takes VERY little Z-1 and Z-2 to get the results you're looking for.

    I think everyone makes the same mistake the first time they use ZAINO. Once you get the hang of it, you'll see how really easy it is to apply.

    Like melchio suggests, e-mail Sal. He's great at getting right back to you.

    Good luck next time with the Z-2/Z-6.

    fastdriver
  • pblevinepblevine Member Posts: 858
    I too made the same mistake on my first try. I not only used too much Z1 but I applied it on a cold humid day and only waited an hour before applying my Z2. And Then,,,I compounded the error by wiping down the Z2 after only 2 hours. I have learned that all chemicals (not just Zaino) are sensitive to both temperature and humidity. On my second application of Z2, I let it dry overnight before wiping it down, and the results were well worth the effort.
  • mtsangmtsang Member Posts: 70
    I did my first Z'ing over the weekend. I was "careful" about not applying too much of the Z1 and Z2. The buffing of the first coat of Z2 smeared and required a bit (but not bad) of elbow grease. 14 hours later, I applied a second Z2, although instruction said to wait at least 24 hours. The second coat of Z2 came off with ease.

    The shine after the first coat was par as other wax I used. But, the second coat is where it really made the difference.

    Maybe next weekend I'll do a third coat.

    Net net: I am very happy with the ease of use and shine. I'll be watching how long it last.
  • adavis1adavis1 Member Posts: 2
    We have a blsck Jetta VR6 that the dealer made buffing marks on, needless to say after 2 trips back they still didn't get it right. Iwaxed it myself this weekend with Zymoil but it still shows all the swirl marks and was not as good as finsh 2000 that I used on my Civic. Any help in getting rid of the swirl marks woud be helpful.
  • georgedegeorgede Member Posts: 40
    Just bought a new 99 red Rodeo, and to my surprise
    not a bit of wax seems to be on the truck. As being my first time on this post and glancing back
    a few messages, all I see the word Zaino popping
    up.Can someone explain it briefly if that is the
    best wax to use or is there something better?? I'm
    in Hot South Florida,and need lots of protection
    from the Sun. Thanks...
  • hgileshgiles Member Posts: 66
    georgede - Read through these posts. There are a myriad of opinions. I used Zaino based on the opinions on this topic. I like it. My car sits outside 24/7 and so long as I spray it with a little (very little) Z-6 after washing the water still beads like it would on your windshield if you put Rain-x on it.
  • fastdriverfastdriver Member Posts: 2,273
    georgede-

    I have been using ZAINO for almost a year now on my 1999 Chrysler 300M-Candy Apple Red-and I am very pleased with the ease of application AND the wet-look shine that my car always has whether it's clean or dirty!

    Your best bet is to go and read about it yourself at http://www.zainobros.com/ If you have any questions, you can e-mail Sal Zaino. He is very helpful and quick to answer. I don't think you'll be disappointed. As a matter of fact, I would venture to say that no one in this forum who has used ZAINO has been disappointed. Maybe one, but he has a business that sells some other brand. He's happy with that.

    Take a look at my pics if you want- http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Flats/7501/

    Hope this helps you to decide. The ONLY negative is applying it when it's humid out. It takes a lot longer to dry. Otherwise, it takes very little time, although with a truck it will take you longer then it does me.

    fastdriver
  • jmelchiojmelchio Member Posts: 23
    I live in Central Florida and would recommend Zaino. I put on three coats, and the water still beaded after 3 months in the sun.
  • anne4anne4 Member Posts: 35
    Sorry to hear about the swirl marks on your Jetta. You must be really upset! If you're willing to try Zaino products, one of them (Z5) supposedly fills in swirl marks. I haven't used Z5 myself, as my new car doesn't have swirls. (Wouldn't let the dealer wash or wax it when it came in to the dealership.) You also have to get Z1, Z2 and Z6. Initial investment is a bit hefty, but the products do last a long time because you put on very thin coats. i have used the other Zaino stuff (Z1, Z2 and Z6) and am very satisfied with it. Go to their website to check their stuff out: www.zainobros.com As far as non-Zaino products being effective at concealing swirls, I'm not that familiar with the whole spectrum of car care products. You could try that other "wash and wax" topic within Maintenance and Accessories to see what other people recommend. This topic tends to focus more on Zaino.
  • anne4anne4 Member Posts: 35
    Adavis1, if you want to see it, I'd be happy to email you a copy of Zaino application tips I compiled from this forum. Email me if you want a copy. And, BTW, no I don't sell Zaino stuff, and they don't give me any money or goodies for "endorsing" their stuff.
  • fastdriverfastdriver Member Posts: 2,273
    anne4-

    Thanks for responding to adavis1. I got so carried away responding to georgede, that I FORGOT to tell adavis1 about the Z-5! I have used the Z-5 on my car and have found it to be very effective. I have NO swirl marks on my car.

    fastdriver
  • joathletejoathlete Member Posts: 25
    Hello Everyone,

    I have been reading all the post about Zaino and I have to say it sounds great. I just got a 99 Galant 1wk ago and would like to keep that beautiful wet shine. It sounds like all I need is Z-1, Z-2, and Z-6. I live in Manhattan, NY and park in an out-door lot. Any tips on how to apply . I would like to make it as fast as possible.
  • jeffsjeffs Member Posts: 23
    I know this discussion board is sold on Zaino, but I was wondering if anyone has experience with the Surluster line of products. Came across their ad in THE STAR and was just curious. Thanks in advance.
  • fastdriverfastdriver Member Posts: 2,273
    joathlete-

    anne4 (above) has a GREAT tip sheet that she put together for the Zaino. Just click on her name in her message and you can send her e-mail. Also, if you go to http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Flats/6021/ Chris has a great ZAINO FAQ page. HE is a detailer and also very helpful. Hope this helps.

    jeffs-

    NEVER heard of it and would be HIGHLY suspect of ANYTHING advertised in the STAR! I know that we all sound like ZAINO nuts here, but if you try it, you'll be praising it too! I say, to each his own. I just know what my car looks like, clean or dirty, and how easy it is to keep it looking that way.

    fastdriver
  • jeffsjeffs Member Posts: 23
    I'm curious as to why you are "HIGHLY suspect of ANYTHING advertised in the STAR". Is there something about products advertised in The Star that I should be weary of? Have you read the STAR? I'm finding the publication to be of very high caliber. Please expand on your statement.

    I'm impressed with all of the rave on the Zaino products and plan on trying them (I'm using Mequirs now and have so for 25 years) on my CLK430 but in the interest of staying objective I would like to gather as many facts/opinions as I can.
  • SporinSporin Member Posts: 1,066
    You need to clarify WHICH Star Magazine you are talking about.

    The STAR that sits next to the National Enquirer at the supermarket?
  • fastdriverfastdriver Member Posts: 2,273
    jeffs-

    Maybe I wrongly assumed that the Star I'm thinking of is the one that sits next to the National Enquirer rag mag at the newstand. If that's the case, then I stand by my statement. 99% of their news is made up and has nothing to do with facts. Of course, this is just my opinion and my 2 cents just like my opinion of ZAINO.

    If there is another Star, then I retract my statement. Sorry.

    fastdriver
This discussion has been closed.

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