Store Bought Waxes Part II (No Zaino Posts)

tntitan

The SEPC is a similar product to AIO and you would not get any benefit using it before AIO. I have a dark metallic grey car and use AIO, SG x 2, and S100. It is all a matter of preference. I find that the SG gives me at least 6-9 months durability (if I wait that long before claying and starting over). On my wife's white CRV I only use the AIO and SG and then add another layer of SG about 3-4 months later. It looks great and does not require much time from me. However, on my car I like the carnauba "wet look" and top my SG with S100. I add another layer of S100 every 3-6 weeks because it is so easy (takes less than 30 minutes on my Accord Coupe). Dark colored cars (black, red, etc.) get more benefit, IMHO, from a carnauba wax topper than a light colored car (white, silver, etc.).

I don't think the SG will detract in any way from the look on a dark colored car....it only adds a step (45 minutes for me) and several months durability. I plan to get several layers of SG on my car in the next few weeks before the damn cicadas start bombing my car by the thousands. I want as much protection as possible from all of the bug guts my front end will be eating.

bottgers

I still don't understand what the benefit would be of using the S100 after you've applied the SG. The SG is a sealant, and to me that means it's meant as a final applicant to seal what you've already put on your paint. Why would you want to put anything on after the SG?

bretfraz

The only reason to top a sealant with a carnauba is for looks. Some people prefer the warmer look a wax provides due to its oil content. There is a thought that topping a sealant like Klasse with a wax gives you the best of both worlds, durability and looks.

sandman46

Is this product really that easy to get off as I've heard, and can I do the whole hood, roof, side of car before I remove it?
Thanks all in advance for your answers with this!

The Sandman :-)

bretfraz

Wow, what a lineup. Really variations on a theme here.

Hard to offer definitive commentary with three very similar products. I haven't used #20 in several years but the other three I either have on hand or have used recently.

IMO, NXT has the most unique look, LG and #20 are prolly the most durable, #20 is the glossiest, and Duragloss gives a nice carnaubaish look and is real easy to use. Hard to pick a stand out from this list.

cds12

I recently ordered a Honda Pilot. All the colors available were either Metallic or Pearl. Whats the differance if any?

Just Curious

doitmyself

Thank you Bretfraz. You stated earlier that NXT didn't look as good on metallic paints vs. solid colors. I find it difficult to believe that a "coating" a molecule or two thick over clear coat could actually change it's appearance. Please elaborate more.

As always, thanks!

bretfraz

I believe there are ingredients in NXT which are altering the look of the paint. There is some kind of oil or conditioner in it that does this. I've seen NXT in action many times now and the paint clearly has a different look to it after application. I've used it on solid and metallic paint and I defintely like it better on solids as NXT tends to deepen the look of the paint. This effect seems to mute some of the metallic effect on that kind of paint which I didn't care for. Having said that, you might like the look so if you're curious, give NXT a spin and see what you think.

gearhead10

Thanks for the info on Klasse. Guess I'll bite the bullet and get some AIO and SG--was looking to find an easier/cheaper alternative to this popular 3-step process but with all the choices that path is looking to be more time consuming than it is worth.

I've read some people actually apply AIO twice, don't know why as second application would take off first. Maybe just for better coverage.

So I've got my S100 and load of microfiber products, just need the Klasse twins and free weekend :P Thanks!

gearhead10

My container of S100 says for best results apply to one section at a time and buff off--do not wait until wax fully hazes over.

tntitan

gearhead10 is correct...do not do more than a panel or two before removing the S100 or it does require some effort. However, you will be SHOCKED at how easy it is to apply and remove if you do a panel at a time. S100 looks great, is as easy to use as anything on the market, does not stain trim, reasonably priced, accessible locally for most people, and is as durable as many other carnaubas.

sandman46

Thanks all for the help. I plan to do the hood, trunk, roof, and half of each side, so it shouldn't take to long to put it on and buff it out...maybe 8 to 10 minutes per.
I surely hope this does the trick, as I like to wash the car weekly and wax every 2 months or so.

The Sandman :-)

seiford

Any recommendations of online retailers for S100 wax and 303 protectant?

Thanks.

bottgers

......whatcha usin' the 303 on?

doitmyself

Hello everyone,

Scotchgard has it's 3M status behind it, 303 makes some great products.

Anyone have experience regarding if one is better than the other?

Is the red "Auto" upholstry product also o.k. for carpeting? Or should I use the house "blue" carpet product in the car?

Thank you all.

seiford

I use the 303 as sunscreen for the boat and autos:

   Boat: all vinyl upholstery

   Autos: interior vinyl/rubber, tire dressing, exterior rubber parts.

But the only place I've found it locally (MN) is at a boater's supply place.

gearhead10

Tried S100 for the first time, just on the rear fender panel and half of the trunk of my red A4. Applied E1 Nanowax on the other fender panel and half of trunk, rest of car covered with Speed Bead.

The S100, as others have said, is easier to apply and buff off than any other wax I've used. Whole car could prolly be done in 30 mins. Very bright and clear shine--clearly better than the Nanowax and SpeedBead. Color just seemed "redder", surface looked more wet than the others, guess that's what's called "jetting". SpeedBead and Nanowax had comparable shine and also looked good, just not as good as S100.

Now just have to wait for the Klasse twins to arrive, will do the whole clay, SMR, AIO, SG, S100 process when I have more time next month.

phillipm1

A couple of my Harley riding friends swear that S100 and Collinite #915(Concurs De Elegance) waxes give the best, "shiniest" shines to their bikes of any wax they could find. I'm glad to see your positive comments about the S100 and wonder if anyone can give firsthand reviews of the Collinite #915?

tntitan

gearhead10 - knew you would like the S100...it truly is amazing for $14.95. I assure you that you will be equally impressed with the Klasse twins. Not only does Klasse easy to use (when done properly), looks great, but the durability is frikkin unbelievable. On my wife's CRV I used the AIOx1 and SGx1 in May, 2003 and then in November, 2003 I added 2 more layers of SG. I washed her car last night and the shine and look was truly remarkable.

phillpm1 - I have the Collinite #915 and have used it 3 times. It has a reputation as being the most durable carnauba wax bar none. I would agree with that assessment....even in 90+ degree temperatures on a dark emerald green Accord I could easily get 3 months protection and I am sure it would last longer when it was not as warm but I started using S100, Klasse, and experimented with some Poorboys EX and never got around to using the Collinite again. Collinite is a paste wax and does not go on buttery like S100 but it is fairly easy to apply. The key is to not let it dry or it is a BEAR to buff off. Buff each panel as you go and Collinite is not too bad to remove and it does look very good but just not quite as "wet" as S100. I am getting ready to redo my Graphite Pearl (dark metallic grey) Accord and I am debating on two plans. Plan #1 is wash, clay, 3M Imperial Hand Glaze, Collinite #915, and then S100. Plan #2 is wash, clay, Klasse AIO, Klasse SGx3, S100. I may go with Plan #1 thinking it would be more durable and MAY offer more protection from the millions of cicadas that are getting ready to explode on the scene around here. If you are really interested in trying the Collinite let me know - I would be willing to ship mine to you (at least 90% full) at half price + shipping.

Seiford - I would not but the S100 online. Find a Harley Davidson dealer and pay $14.95. The 303 can actually be bought at True Value Hardware stores (they may have to order it but you would save shipping). If not there I would order it directly from 303....in fact they have a deal where they will send you free samples of 3 of their products if you pay $5 shipping. Check out www.303-products.com. I bought a gallon which will probably last a lifetime but I use it on a lot of different things around the house as well as on my cars.

seiford

Thanks for the suggestions!

phillipm1

Appreciate all the "firsthand" info. on the various auto waxes. After reading your comments I think I'll forget about the Collinite and try the Klasse or S100. Are either of these products handled at the big discounters, (Advance, AutoZone, O'Reillys,) Etc. Thanks again.

gearhead10

Cleaned some dust off my car with some detailing spray this morning and the area covered with S100 was noticeably slicker than the rest of the car. I'm actually looking forward to applying it over a couple of layers of Klasse SG now! Should look even better then as I haven't clayed/polished in a year.

Haven't seen Klasse or S100 in any autoparts chain store--people have mentioned in other posts that they're prolly available only online, besides the Harley dealerships. I ordered from www.properautocare.com. They also sell 303 products. Most expensive stuff at Autozone is NXT.

BTW, I actually saw NXT discounted at a Walmart earlier this week. Is that the kiss of death? :P
J/K of course!

tntitan

Klasse is not available anywhere except online...it has been around for a long time but is not marketed very well. Get the Klasse kit with the 16.9 oz. size AIO and SG and you get some MF towels and several applicators for $39.95 plus shipping at either properautocare.com or autogeek.com. That will be enough to last you for years. If you decide to go the S100 route without the Klasse twins I would Highly recommend you get the paint cleanser at the Harley shop (I think the name of it is SEC...shine enhancing cleanser) for $9. It will make a big difference and is very similar to Klasse AIO when used with S100. Many people use AIO as a prep for S100 or just about anything else because it is so easy and works so well. If you are watching your pennies it is hard to beat Clay Magic, SEC, and S100 for $10,$15, and $9 respectively. Long term value is best served by Clay Magic ($10), AIO & SG ($40).....for $50 and shipping you can make your car look remarkable for at least 3 years.

lapvn

My normal tire product is starting to get low so I thought I get myself some Endurance. Only to find out that no one has it, I have gone to 3 auto parts store. What I found were products that I am not familiar with. I would appreciate all your input if you know any of these three products I was considering.

Meguiars Tire Shine

Dupont Tire _____ with Teflon

TurtleWax TireWax

Previously, I use the Tire product from the Z company. I like the fact that it protects the tire and especially that it doesn't attract dirt and it wasn't greasy.

gearhead10

I've seen Endurance at Autozone. I haven't tried it but read less than complimentary reviews of it. Comlaints about flinging product in wheel wells and being very messy.

I've had good results from Stoner Moreshinelesstime (fairly glossy) and Vinylex (almost matte). Seen both at Pep Boys.

fxfan

Has anyone used the Pinnacle leather cleaner and conditioner and what is their opinion. I'm not too enthused about the Lexol conditioner that I've been using and autogeek seems to really like the Pinnacle.

Also thinking of ordering the Klasse kit from proper autocare and am wondering should I go ahead and order the viper towels as well (I know the klasse kit comes with towels but will it be enough)

Thanks in advance!

bretfraz

TIRES: Meg's Hot Rims tire shine and Turtle Wax TW didn't perform all that well in the Wheel & Tire Care Test http://www.gurureports.org/specialreports/wheeltireguide.1.html
I like Vinylex (close in gloss to Z16), Mothers Preserves, and Eagle One Satin Finish Tire Shine (if you can still find it). But if you want a good store bought tire dressing, get some Armor All Original Shine. It did very well in tests and its available everywhere.

LEATHER: I love Pinnacle's leather care products. Probably the best I've ever used. But their prices kill me. I've been using Eagle One's leather products which work well and don't cost a zillion dollars. If money isn't an issue, get the Pinnacle leather products and enjoy. They're excellent!

As for microfibers, shop around for quality and price. I'm sure the Viper's are good but also check out stuff from www.waynestowels.com and www.autofiber.com , both of whom may have towel kits that are more affordable.

sandman46

Finally got over to the Harley store on thursday and bought the S100 for $14.95. Plan on using it next saturday or sunday...hopefully it will live up to the expectations that I have about it.

The Sandman :-)

fxfan

I ordered the Pinnacle today, both cleaner and conditioner. My seats are dark and don't appear dirty but I figured they need to be cleaned. I also ordered the Klasse kit from properautocare. Now to find a Harley dealer for the S100 and we will be good to go on our 6 month old FX35. The Infiniti dealer did a fine wax job on delivery of the vehicle but it's black and has minor swirls that need taking care of. We couldn't keep up with the hand washing after the first month, so I purchased a $50 a month gold membership from a car wash place and have been getting it washed and hot waxed for 5 months. I know it is better to do this yourself but frankly it took an hour twice a week to hand wash and dry and I still put swirls in it, the car wash is a much better option for me(I go at least twice a week)

lapvn

But Why? I thought you didn't like this stuff. I thought this product wasn't really good for the tires. I thought this product attracted dirt and didn't protect the tires and also eventually would turn the tires brown.

Didn't you use to like Endurance?

bretfraz

The Original shine product is water based, polydimethylsiloxane, and is like many other safe tire dressings. AA still sells silicone oil based dressings and they should be avoided. But if you're looking for a store bought dressing and don't want to kick down for Vinylex or 303 or search for a well known quality product, Armor All Original is fine.

I've never tried Endurance so I don't have an opinion of it. My long time faves have been Eagle One dressings.

lapvn

Sorry Brett, I know you know your stuff and I know your garage is full of products (and going) I really thought you did like Endurance for the shine if not the Z product's satin finish. I clearly mistaken you for someone else. BTW, I still owe you lots for that Eagle One product to really clean my rims.

Now for AA, are you suggesting the AA bottles that say "Original formula"?

The last AA bottle I used didn't give off that shine like I was use to when AA first came out.

These bottles like Meguiars Hot Shine always leaves a big question mark with me. My thinking is that they must have taken something away to make it easier for the user in exchange. Products like Endurance and Z, and other products which require more work, I think tend to leave a better shine.

Right now, I am using the Z product on the newer car. I will try using the 303 on the Tires of the newer car, but I think it is kind of expensive route. I willl experiment with the Endurance on the 11 year old car and see and let you know.

Bret, I was wondering since you have the connections, can you get samples of various products, maybe divide a tire and do each section with a different product so you can see which last the most after a certain amount of time. There was a similar test done by a user and he divided a hood into 5 sections and thats how he came up with his results on the wax. If you want the link to the article let me know, it was a pretty interesting test.

bretfraz

No apologies necessary. I get people mixed up all the time.

Yeah, the "original shine" Armor All is the best choice as that's the one which is water based. The rule of thumb is if the product is clear looking, its probably oil based. If its white and milky looking, its water based.

As for testing tire dressings and such, I've got the answer for you: http://www.gurureports.org/specialreports/wheeltireguide.1.html
100+ products, 96 pages of tire dressings, wheel cleaners, tire cleaners, one step products, tips, tricks, etc.

kennynmd

i just saw an advertising for Mequiar's Tech Wax. Just wondering if anyone has tried it or have any opinions of it. I saw it in Advanced Auto Part for $15.

sandman46

Just finished using this on my Sentra and...WOW! This stuff's incredible! At first I was a bit hesitant as the wax was somewhat hard in the container. But after rubbing the applicator in circular motions, the wax came off easy and went on very easy also. Doing 1 section at a time like it says and removing before it starts to haze also made the removal process much easier. It said to use a terry towel, but the microfiber ones I got from Costco worked so much better.
The surface now feels buttery smooth, just unbelievable and the best part is, it only took me about an hour to do the whole car. I basically split the roof, hood, and trunk in half and then did each door and the 4 quarter panels, 14 parts to wax actually .
Am a very happy camper here, and plan to redo the whole car in about 6 weeks or so.

The Sandman :-)

gearhead10

Wondering what to use for these, I'm thinking of tryinhg Meguiars' ScratchX and P21S Finish Restorer but maybe FR is too harsh. I have an Audi with a soft clearcoat but 3M SMR doesn't do enough.

tntitan

From one happy camper to another. I never doubted that you would love the S100...it is an incredible wax for $15. I never ceased to be amazed at how easy it is to use and how good it looks. My bet is that you will not be able to wait another 6 weeks before doing it again. LOL!

sandman46

Hey guy, you're right, I can't wait to use the S100 again. Am thinking of putting another coat on next sunday if the rain gods and the wife cooperate.
Like I said earlier, at first I wasn't real happy but within 5 minutes, I was hooked. Plan to do the wife's charcol car also, now that'll probaly look even better than my silver, as that paint has a nice shimmer to it when freshly waxed.

The Sandman :-)

tntitan

Many people think that the S100 looks better after a day or so. Hope you clayed and polished your car first...it makes a huge difference.

kevinv

What do you use for the interior of you accord (dash and doors)? I also have a graphite grey accord (leather- i use lexol). I may give the S100 a try. I have been using mequiars hi-tech yellow wax #26. How do you think s100 compares (durablility, shine) if you are able to comment? Also, you mention claying then applying a polish, what chain store polish would you recomend? Thanks in advance if you can answer any.

fxfan

Hi! So I bought a porter cable 7424 buffer and all my husband could say, doesn't anyone make cordless buffers??? Obviously, he has not researched any buffers, and I am not sure but my research indicated this was one of the better buffers.

Anyone know about good cordless buffers?

tntitan

I use 303 Aerospace Protectant on my interior. It can be used for any interior or exterior vinyl, rubber (great for tires), and many leather applications. I also use it for many other things around the house. It is fairly expensive but goes a long way. The best things about 303 are nothing has better UV protection and I like the matte finish it leaves instead of a shiny finish, and it does not attract dust. For $5 shipping they will send you a free sample of several of their products. If you are interested I will get you the website.

Lexol is a good product and should be fine for your leather.

The polish you need depends on the condition of your paint. Assuming yours is in pretty good condition and only has very minor swirls I would get Meguiars #9 Swirl Free Polish. You should be able to find it at a AutoZone and it is pretty easy to use.

The Meguiars #26 is a good wax and the durability should be about equal to S100 or to Mequiars #16 but both the S100 or the Meguiars #16 have a much better shine and are MUCH easier to use IMO. The #16 is harder to find and is going to be discontinued but is a great product and it is only $13.

bretfraz

Cordless buffers are toys!! ;-)

None of them produce enough torque or have the durability to do a quality job. Even if there were a good cordless buffer, it would cost substantially more for little real-world benefit. It's not like a top quality cordless drill where portability is important.

Nope.... gotta use one of the plug in machines to get good results.

splogue

The 303 is good stuff. I find it a bit on the glossy side for interiors, though, and it tends to smear on the wood. I guess my car just has a more matte interior to begin with, and the 303 adds a bit too much gloss, even though it isn't considered shiny. Nothing beats it for weatherstripping and other plastic bits, though.

Bretfraz is right about the cordless buffers -- they are toys. The Portercable is the reference standard, and I've been very happy with mine despite the cord.

Sean

tntitan

Buff the 303 after applying it and I don't believe you will find it too glossy.

plunder

I just bought some Nano Wax, partly because I have had favorable results from Eagle 1 but mainly because it does not leave a white residue. Can anyone give me the benefit of your experience with a finish that does not leave a white residue? Does S-100?. I am doing a dark work truck with over 200,000 miles and it has its share of blemishes.

sandman46

I tried the Nanowax and about 3 weeks later used the S100 and I will never use anything else. I have silver metallic paint and the car just shimmered even without removing all the old wax. It was quite incredible actually. Imagine if I had dawned, clayed, and polished first.
I can only say that I was and still am very happy with the S100 and plan to redo the car on the Memorial Day weekend.

The Sandman :-)

plunder

Does the S100 have a white residue?

sandman46

I had no white residue after I was finished. The car looked great. Washed it for the first time yesterday, and the finish is very smooth and has a mirror like shine to it.
Great product!

The Sandman :-)

gearhead10

I'd also like to add that my car got sprayed by a sprinkler on Tuesday night and I didn't have a chance to wash it until today--S100 on rear fender and Speed Bead on rest of car. I thought water spots would surely have baked in and need polishing or clay to remove. The spots just washed off and what didn't came out with some detail spray.