Remove Wax? YES - Zaino is more optically clear than wax. You will never get the real 'Z' shine with a "dirty" wax coat underneath. Blue Dawn works great, but if it is not available, any grease cutting dishwashing detergent without additives or lanolin will work.
Love Bugs - They ARE terrible. To mitigate the damage, be sure to wash them off as soon as possible after the "splat". Otherwise, the bug juice continues to eat away, and may even get through Zaino!
Clear Hood Cover The Z6 should be a good treatment for this as you are doing your car.
I live in Pinecrest and can well relate to the bugs between Orlando and greater Miami. Traveling down US27 at night just 2 weeks ago, you'd have thought it was raining hard due to the number of bugs hitting the windshield - be sure your washer reservoir is full before making the trip as you'll need all the liquid you can carry. I still ran out of fluid in my wife's Explorer!
I always hose down the vehicle as soon as I complete the trip (usually late at night), then do a heavy wash the next morning. The vehicles which I've driven through this area have not been Z treated.
I own a Miata '00SE, purchased ~6 weeks ago which I gave the full Z treatment to. Honest to God, when I look at the side mirrors it really looks as though there's a thin film of clear glass over the paint. That's how good the Z shine is!
Back to the bugs - I would be willing to bet the Z treatment will probably have an effect similar to the way Rain-X does on a windshield... the bugs will probably splat and spray off.
Curious....if you are such a die-hard fan of Zaino, why don't you use their LIB Z-10? Is Lexol better? I want the best for my car and if Lexol is it I will use that instead. Please be honest. Anyone else use something other than LIB for their leather and vinyl?
Thanks for the scotchgard idea - I wouldn't have thought of it. In my past car ( '91 Red Talon) I always had towels on the floor that matched the interior (after 10 yrs the carpets were still brand new). However, now I am trying to be not as psycho about dirt in my car (and avoid the abuse of friends who don't understand)but still keep it looking great.
I plan to install 3M clear protection on my Yukon along with the Zaino treatment. I already have the Z products. My questions for theresa11, jgriff & others who have used it: Did you install the kit yourself and where did you purchase?
I am condisering a kit made by X-Pel. One of the FAQs from their site addresses waxing (I know, I know: it's a POLISH).
"What if I want to take my car through a car wash or have it waxed? You can do anything to the shield that you normally do to the rest of the car's finish. The shield will accept wax and polishes just as your paint does and will last longer with regular applications."
I had mine install at my local auto enhancement shop, same place that did my window tinting. They said that they used to use the kits, but found the 3M product to be a lot easier to work with. I paid $199 installed, so far I've been real happy with the results, we will see what the long haul results are.
Once I get my Z's I spot test, and make certain their is no problems.
Strongly recommend that those of you with questions about Zaino and applying the products go to the Zaino web site (www.zainobros.com). All your questions should be answered there. If not, either call Sal Zaino or e-mail him -- he responds almost immediately.
A few points that address comments made above in this forum:
Use BLUE Dawn to wash car prior to using Zaino. I'm not sure if the yellow Dawn is as effective (Sal would know).
DON'T use baby diapers on your car. Sal recommends 100% cotton, made-in-the-USA Cannon or Fieldcrest towels for washing, drying, wiping off Zaino Z-2, 3, 5 and 6. Other fabrics/towels might scratch or leave swirl marks.
Use Z-6, regardless of car's color. It really enhances the shine. Instead of washing, if your car isn't too dirty, dust it off lightly (no pressure) with a clean towel, then use Z-6.
Whether to clay a new car or not is personal. For a black or dark colored finish, I would clay first (after washing with blue Dawn). For a light colored new car, Sal recommends always claying, but my '00 MB E320 with brilliant silver finish actually is BRILLIANT, and I did not clay first. I now have about 6 coats of Z-2 on it and frequently use Z-6.
Instead of using a group purchase of Zaino products, contact Sal and ask if there is a local Zaino distributor nearby. Dave Rose, who frequently posts here, serves the metropolitan D.C. area, and he's knowledgeable, quick to respond and has competitive pricing (compared to mail ordering Zaino and paying shipping charge). I've never gone directly to Sal -- Dave is too good! He delivers and will demo the products if appropriate.
What is 3M Clear Protection? Can you please describe the product and say what is its purpose. What's in the kit made by X-Pel? Am I missing something important?
imc10 - I just haven't tried the Z-10, it came out after I bought my last load of Z products. They last so long, I haven't yet re-ordered. I do want to try the glass, tire and leather treatments.
The Lexol, however, is REALLY good - I have been using it for over 20 years with great results, so I haven't gone out of my way to try something else. Between Lexol treatmetns, Lemon Pledge is the way to go, and good for the rest of the interior too, except for cloth. If you use the lexol, be sure to put it on with your hands, then towel off.
FYI - 3M is discontinuing Scotchguard as environmentally harmful, so if you want to protect your next few cars, you better stock up NOW.
I would describe as a very nice alternative to the black bras you see on the front of cars. Basically it is a clear plastic film that has a light adhesive and is heated transported onto your front hood [I also have it on my side mirrors].
The principle is the same, to avoid those costly and unsightly rock chips. You will hardly even notice that it is there, except for a small line where the film ends. Plus there is none of the headaches that come w/ a black bra ie. looks, dirt under, movements, paint scrapes and fading etc. etc.
Thx for responding....and for the info on Scotchgard (I hope I can still find it in the stores). I guess I'll go with the LIB and see how I like it. I'll let you know after the weekend.
To find out who and where Zaino Distributors are, contact Sal Zaino at sal@zainobros.com. Part of the agreement with Sal is not to use the Internet (which I also understood to mean forums such as these) to promote ourselves personally. After Town Hall participant mbdriver invoked my name a few posts back, I've now had the double-edged sword of having my name passed on "by word of mouth" and happy that someone is pleased with the product and my service, but have lost the appearance of integrity and relative anonymity with which I participated in the Edmunds' Town Hall topics. I hope those who recall any of my comments/advice do not feel betrayed; my advocacy was from the heart and mind of a user, not for what it might do for my sideline business. In that spirit, I have changed my email address from public to private on my Town Hall profile, which I hope removes any direct link to me.
daverose - I've been reading a lot of your posts, and after being inspired by you and numerous others here using the Z products, can only say that you're only speaking the truth. I've never seen a shine like that on my car now. Thanks for being honest, both in post #379 and in all your others.
Your response to an event beyond your control is exactly in keeping with the Town Hall Participant Agreement. We appreciate it!
Just for everyone's information, the Participant Agreement has recently been updated and clarified. You might like to reread it. Believe me, it is a LOT clearer than it used to be! :-)
Pat Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
What products do you guys use on rubber trim. I have black hard plastic in a few spots, and I want to keep them from fading. Z-6 seems to dry up and doesn't seem to offer much protection for an unfinished black surface. Any suggestions? Thanks. By the way, I have ZZZZZZZZZd The Van, Truck, and convertible in the last month. I think I'm getting a little possessed!!!!
Can someone tell me their experiences with Z-12? I thought I read in an earlier post that it worked well on the outside of windows but not the inside. Can anyone confirm or deny?
I have a 2000 Acura TL and a 1991 Acura Legend. The TL looks brand new as it should (no swirl marks or scratches yet) but the Legend has heavy swirl marks and many fine scratches in the clear coat especially on the hood and trunk. Will the Zaino products help my Legend or is the car too old to help. Any advice would be appreciated greatly. Thanks.
Z5 should help hide your scratches and swirls, especially if the scratches are fine, though I have seen Z2 show some scratch-hiding properties, too. It may take as many as 5 coats to complete the job, so factor that into how much you purchase to save that shipping and handling charge if you order from Zaino direct rather than a local distributor, if there is one for your area.
I had my truck parked at the airport for a few days, and when I returned, the entire hood was covered with large white water spots. It has been over 100 every day, so they are baked on. They must use hard reclaimed sewage water to irrigate the landscaping at Ontario airport. The truck has the full zaino treatment, and I figured that a z7 wash would get rid of the spots.
After a good washing, most of the evidence is gone, but you can still see the outline of the large spots. Should I clay the hood to remove the spots, or is there some other solution??
I just washed my mother in laws Taurus that I Z'd 5 months ago. The water was STILL beading like new. She had commented that it just didn't seem to get dirty anymore, and the hood, roof and trunk were pretty clean, but the sides were a mess. I don't think her car had been washed for about 3 months. When I hosed it down, I couldn't believe it would still bead. Washed it with Z7 and it's still looking good. To be fair, she doesn't drive a lot, and the car is garaged, but 5 months and still going strong is a pretty good long term test.
I did the final rinse today without the nozzle on the hose. Sheets of water really did pull off the car. By the time I returned outside from getting the towels to dry the car off, most of the water was gone. It usually takes two maybe three towels to dry my 2000 Solara. It only took one using this great tip.
Question about windows - has anyone used Z5 or Z6 on them. Thanks, Sally
Nobody has responded to my previous post about plastic trim. I have flat black plastic finish on my mirrors and bumpers etc. What kind of stuff (if not zaino) do you put on these areas to give them a wet look and protect them from sun, fading etc. Any and all suggestions appreciated
Tiltboy I use the same stuff I put on the tires on our black trim. I am currently using Turtle Wax 2001 tire gel. It dries hard and not greasy. AFter I'm done with the tires, I wipe the damp rag along the trim. Looks good and protects. I am planning to try the Zaino tire treatment next order.
Thicks23 - While Z5 can work wonders, if you have really visible swirls and scratches, I advise using a glaze or polish first, then the Z products. I have about 6 coats on our '97 Accord, and while greatly reduced, the swirls are not gone. I will glaze it some time in the future, adn then re-Z for the glass-smooth finish I have on the the other, newer car.
I'm glad that Dave Rose received the praise he deserves from many who post here. While I certainly didn't intend to compromise Dave's integrity when I mentioned his name in a previous post, I did want others to know that he (and other Zaino distributors) have a sterling reputation -- in person, here in this forum, and in other forums on the web. Dave's response reaffirmed my faith in Sal Zaino's policies, in Zaino products, and in the straight-forward, honest way in which Zaino products are marketed.
Keep up the good work in providing valuable info in this forum, Dave!
Tiltboy: Z-16 (Zaino's Perfect Tire Gloss) does a great job on tires and other outside rubber parts. And it seems to last a long time too. I applied Z-16 to my tires over the July 4th weekend, and after two washings, they still look very good.
one4thegipper: The Zaino Z-12 Glass Polish CAN be used on inside glass and in fact, was developed to get rid of those curing plastic residues which somehow attach to your glass parts.
What does that mean? Is that the haze/streaks on the inside of the windshield and rear window that you can just never seem to get rid of no matter what? Any suggestions on how to get rid of them? I have tried newspaper, cleaned them in the shade, etc. Nothing works!
I went to an Honda Car Care seminar a few years ago. They suggest to use a mixture white vinegar and water to wipe those residues. I tried it. It work OK.
For the love bugs, I would second the suggestion to put the Zaino car wash (diluted correctly) in a spray bottle and hit the exposed areas and with a 100% cotton cloth wipe it gently away.
I am interested in what the correct mix is for Z-7 car wash and water. You are now the 2nd post to indicate that this would work on love bugs. Thanks for your help
As I understand it, new plastic hardens (or 'cures') over time. In the process, gases are released which contain all sorts of 'sticky' (a technical term) stuff. And its hard to get that stuff off of interior glass. Anything that works is good. Like a mild abrasive or newsprint. I like Zaino's Z-12 which contains a mild abrasive. Rub it on, rub it off. Works for me.
ruking1: Great idea, I'll now keep a small spray bottle in my trunk. Every time I drive up to the Bershires, my car establishes a whole new collection of bugs.
theresa11: I think the Z-7 bottle says 3 caps full per gallon. A little really does go a long way. I use a slightly more scientific method (which is also a bit faster). As I start to pore, I say the word "enough" and stop.
I used Z-1, Z-2, Z-10, & Z-16 on my new car over the weekend and I couldn't be happier with the resluts. Thanks to all of you for your posts and honest opinions. I must say I was a little skeptical to buy into all the hype - but it was true!
I was a little nervous after putting the first coat of Z1 & Z2 on - there was some haze and streaks. But the next morning I applied a second coat of Z2 and it was just incredible. It definitely looks better then when I bought it.
Thanks again for all your help everyone! I am a believer now!
I Z'd for the first time this past weekend. Dawn wash, claybar, Z-7 wash, Z-1, Z-5, Z-16 on a new Suburban (yes, it took two days and my right arm was fatigued). My problem is that there is a greasy film all over that won't rub off (otherwise, it looks awesome!). What did I do wrong and what shoud I do to correct it? I figured I would just do a Z-7 wash again and another coat of Z-5 and Z-16. If anyone has any advice, I would really appreciate it.
It sounds like the Z1 z5 combo didn't fully dry. The first time I applied them, I waited 3 hours for both to fully dry. Wash it again and put the Z5 (or Z2) only on. I always apply mine in direct sunlight and it seems to dry fairly quickly.
I think pjyoung is right -- the Z-1/Z-5 probably wasn't completely dry when you tried to wipe it off. But to be safe, call Sal Zaino and ask. He'll also tell you whether it's necessary to apply Z-1 again, after the wash or whatever, and before another application of Z-5.
Sorry...I meant Z-6 NOT Z-16. I let the Z-1/Z-5 dry in direct sunlight (it was about 75 degrees) for almost 5 hours. I'll call Sal just to be safe. Thanks for the help.
A little off topic, but lots of experience in this forum, maybe someone can help. My dealer sticker came off, leaving the sticky residue on the car. Tried gently rubbing it off, but it left the are hazy. Any suggestions?
Hit it with a LITTLE bit of WD-40. Once the residue is off, wash and wax as normal. I normally just spray some on a towel and wipe until the glue is gone.
For water spots, try soaking them for a little while with a cotton ball soaked in white vinegar to loosen the minerals that may have attached themselves to the paint, and then rub them with the requisite high-quality, white, 100%, made in the USA, cotton towel, loops and backing, partly soaked in the vinegar.
I agree, the Z-1/Z-5 layers had not really completely dried. The Z-6 on top of that didn't help. I'd just let it dry for a few days. Do not apply anything, just let it dry. Wipe down with another clean towel. When (and only when) that greasy film is gone should you apply Z-6 again. After that, you can then continue with Z-2.
The initial Z-1 / Z-2 (or Z-5) layers do take a longer period of time to dry. They are affected by both temperature and humidity. But if your initial Z layers are really taking much too much time to dry, please give Sal a call.
Which I failed to mention earlier - It only takes a SMALL amount of Z1/Z2/Z5 to do the job. I know that the first time I used it, I think I may have overapplied it. A little really does go a long way.
Wow, I apply this Zaino in probably lower relative humidity (CA) than you folks. While I have lived in a relatively humid climate (MIAMI FL [98 degrees, 98% humidity]?) I am thinking that probably too much product is being applied. Here in CA drying of Zaino is almost instantaneous (5-10 min), given of course, small amounts. I have deviated a bit from the Zaino instructions on putting the product on the pad and rubbing it into the surface, for it is far easier to visualize a small measured amount squirted on say the hood of the vehicle and adjusting accordingly.
As I write this, the temp is 62 degrees and relative humidity is 75 %. (approzimate drying time max 10 min.) Also, I use either water on the applicator pad or z-6. I have a tendency to use z-6 for I like the smell!
for all of the responses. I spoke with Sal, and he told me to wash the truck and it would be fine. If I want to apply another coat of Z-5 or Z-2 (which I do), that's fine too. Thanks again for the help.
Couldn't help but see your post in the "No Z" topic, so I thought I'd reply here. You said:
<< especially the product in the other forum...which makes me wonder if one product can really be that much better, or are people just tired of waxing every 2-3 months? >>
When you guys mean Canon towels, is it the ones labelled just "Canon 100 % cotton" or do you mean the "felcrest Canon 100% Cotton". They both feel the same to me, rough. But the second one was on sale. Zul
Have actually done a comparison between some of the high end waxes ie Collinite, Pinnacle, Malms, One Grand, etc vs Zaino? I would be interested to know how they compared in different areas, otherwise your response doesn't mean much to me, or anyone else trying to compare products.
Comments
YES - Zaino is more optically clear than wax. You will never get the real 'Z' shine with a "dirty" wax coat underneath. Blue Dawn works great, but if it is not available, any grease cutting dishwashing detergent without additives or lanolin will work.
Love Bugs -
They ARE terrible. To mitigate the damage, be sure to wash them off as soon as possible after the "splat". Otherwise, the bug juice continues to eat away, and may even get through Zaino!
Clear Hood Cover
The Z6 should be a good treatment for this as you are doing your car.
Traveling down US27 at night just 2 weeks ago, you'd have thought it was raining hard due to the number of bugs hitting the windshield - be sure your washer reservoir is full before making the trip as you'll need all the liquid you can carry. I still ran out of fluid in my wife's Explorer!
I always hose down the vehicle as soon as I complete the trip (usually late at night), then do a heavy wash the next morning. The vehicles which I've driven through this area have not been Z treated.
I own a Miata '00SE, purchased ~6 weeks ago which I gave the full Z treatment to. Honest to God, when I look at the side mirrors it really looks as though there's a thin film of clear glass over the paint. That's how good the Z shine is!
Back to the bugs - I would be willing to bet the Z treatment will probably have an effect similar to the way Rain-X does on a windshield... the bugs will probably splat and spray off.
Good Luck and enjoy the shine.
Jim M.
Thanks for the scotchgard idea - I wouldn't have thought of it. In my past car ( '91 Red Talon) I always had towels on the floor that matched the interior (after 10 yrs the carpets were still brand new). However, now I am trying to be not as psycho about dirt in my car (and avoid the abuse of friends who don't understand)but still keep it looking great.
I am condisering a kit made by X-Pel. One of the FAQs from their site addresses waxing (I know, I know: it's a POLISH).
"What if I want to take my car through a car wash or have it waxed?
You can do anything to the shield that you normally do to the rest of the car's finish. The shield will accept wax and polishes just as your paint does and will last longer with regular applications."
Once I get my Z's I spot test, and make certain their is no problems.
A few points that address comments made above in this forum:
Use BLUE Dawn to wash car prior to using Zaino. I'm not sure if the yellow Dawn is as effective (Sal would know).
DON'T use baby diapers on your car. Sal recommends 100% cotton, made-in-the-USA Cannon or Fieldcrest towels for washing, drying, wiping off Zaino Z-2, 3, 5 and 6. Other fabrics/towels might scratch or leave swirl marks.
Use Z-6, regardless of car's color. It really enhances the shine. Instead of washing, if your car isn't too dirty, dust it off lightly (no pressure) with a clean towel, then use Z-6.
Whether to clay a new car or not is personal. For a black or dark colored finish, I would clay first (after washing with blue Dawn). For a light colored new car, Sal recommends always claying, but my '00 MB E320 with brilliant silver finish actually is BRILLIANT, and I did not clay first. I now have about 6 coats of Z-2 on it and frequently use Z-6.
Instead of using a group purchase of Zaino products, contact Sal and ask if there is a local Zaino distributor nearby. Dave Rose, who frequently posts here, serves the metropolitan D.C. area, and he's knowledgeable, quick to respond and has competitive pricing (compared to mail ordering Zaino and paying shipping charge). I've never gone directly to Sal -- Dave is too good! He delivers and will demo the products if appropriate.
What is 3M Clear Protection? Can you please describe the product and say what is its purpose. What's in the kit made by X-Pel? Am I missing something important?
Sorry for the dumb quetions.
The Lexol, however, is REALLY good - I have been using it for over 20 years with great results, so I haven't gone out of my way to try something else. Between Lexol treatmetns, Lemon Pledge is the way to go, and good for the rest of the interior too, except for cloth. If you use the lexol, be sure to put it on with your hands, then towel off.
FYI - 3M is discontinuing Scotchguard as environmentally harmful, so if you want to protect your next few cars, you better stock up NOW.
Basically it is a clear plastic film that has a light adhesive and is heated transported onto your front hood [I also have it on my side mirrors].
The principle is the same, to avoid those costly and unsightly rock chips. You will hardly even notice that it is there, except for a small line where the film ends. Plus there is none of the headaches that come w/ a black bra ie. looks, dirt under, movements, paint scrapes and fading etc. etc.
Jim M.
Just for everyone's information, the Participant Agreement has recently been updated and clarified. You might like to reread it. Believe me, it is a LOT clearer than it used to be! :-)
Pat
Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
Thanks,
Rich
After a good washing, most of the evidence is gone, but you can still see the outline of the large spots. Should I clay the hood to remove the spots, or is there some other solution??
No more parking near planters!!
Question about windows - has anyone used Z5 or Z6 on them. Thanks, Sally
I use the same stuff I put on the tires on our black trim. I am currently using Turtle Wax 2001 tire gel. It dries hard and not greasy. AFter I'm done with the tires, I wipe the damp rag along the trim. Looks good and protects. I am planning to try the Zaino tire treatment next order.
Thicks23 - While Z5 can work wonders, if you have really visible swirls and scratches, I advise using a glaze or polish first, then the Z products. I have about 6 coats on our '97 Accord, and while greatly reduced, the swirls are not gone. I will glaze it some time in the future, adn then re-Z for the glass-smooth finish I have on the the other, newer car.
Keep up the good work in providing valuable info in this forum, Dave!
one4thegipper: The Zaino Z-12 Glass Polish CAN be used on inside glass and in fact, was developed to get rid of those curing plastic residues which somehow attach to your glass parts.
Thanks for your help
ruking1: Great idea, I'll now keep a small spray bottle in my trunk. Every time I drive up to the Bershires, my car establishes a whole new collection of bugs.
theresa11: I think the Z-7 bottle says 3 caps full per gallon. A little really does go a long way. I use a slightly more scientific method (which is also a bit faster). As I start to pore, I say the word "enough" and stop.
I was a little nervous after putting the first coat of Z1 & Z2 on - there was some haze and streaks. But the next morning I applied a second coat of Z2 and it was just incredible. It definitely looks better then when I bought it.
Thanks again for all your help everyone! I am a believer now!
Thanks in advance,
Rich
Rich
The same dilution rate for your car wash bucket, 2 to 3 capfuls!! then siphon some off for your spray bottle!
The initial Z-1 / Z-2 (or Z-5) layers do take a longer period of time to dry. They are affected by both temperature and humidity. But if your initial Z layers are really taking much too much time to dry, please give Sal a call.
Rich
<< especially the product in the other forum...which makes me wonder if one product can really be that much better, or are people just tired of waxing every 2-3 months? >>
The answer in one word?...BOTH
Zul