Lurking on the "anti=Z" board, there are tips for keeping a car waxed in the winter. Looks like turtle wax spray wax is winning. It's too tempting to tell someone that one coat of Z in early November will pretty much handle a Chicago winter, but, they don't want to know, so I shan't tell them.
Had a similiar problem with streaking on my black IS this weekend. I had put a coat of Z-5 on and waited about 2 hours and took it off. It wasn't till I had finished that I noticed the smearing. I was putting it on in a garage and guess the light wasn't great. I rewashed the car and waited about 8 hours and put on another coat of Z-5. This time I let it sit overnight and it came off very easy in the morning. It looked great!! I think the humidity in Florida is the reason for the long drying time. Will keep doing it this way in the future......
I e-mailed Hal Zany, yesterday and no word yet? You seem to be very smug and flippant, maybe you can help me? I need tips on how to keep my car, Zanied in the winter? I purchased my extra strength made in Chicago very blue Dawn liquid dish soap, purchased %110 all organic, made on a Tuesday cotton towels (stitching folded in), I purchased a couple of hundred dollars worth of Zany-2, Zany-5, Zany-12, and Zany-86, and dog; Hal forgot the free applicator, darn! How do I get started? I took a weeks vacation, because we have very high humidity here. Shan't you help me, please. I need to get through winter. Can I maintain my pimping new "wet look" with a bucket of water and some Zip Wax liquid? If not, I will send Hal a personal check for $50 and get a 2 oz bottle of Zany-7 detail spray and an atomizer bottle and mist my pimpmobil? Hope my "peeps" give me, my "props" when they see my freshly Zanied extra large exhaust tip!
Mmmmmmmmm..........are THEY allowed to come into this group and harass us? They'd be in a REAL TWIT if we posted something like this in their topic.
Oh well, let them have their fun. We KNOW our cars look the best and are the best protected. I know what my car looks like after a winter wash. Maybe bnormann will address this problem, although with 839 messages, I don't think he's around.
You're right. While they are busy with the "Amoco hot wax treatment" to keep that winter sheen, I'll look at mine shining nice all winter with no effort to "keep it looking nice".
But, it was a nice test to see who lurks. I reserved my words for the Z board, since anyone who attempts to even suggest something that might solve their "problem" is looked upon as shill or cult member.
Protegextwo - here's my tip for you. Wintertime is extremely rough on a car. YOu'll want the deep cleaning properties of Meguires #7 sulfuric acid bath. To insure that squeeky clean paint and to cut thru the road salt, you should dry your car with 40 grade sandpaper (try to avoid the power sander as they tend to leave swirl marks). Follow that with a couple of coats of "blitzkrieg" instant hot wax. Be careful, as the acetelyne torch that is required to "deep seat" the blitzkreig wax can burn the paint if left in one spot for too long. Let is sit overnight before buffing it off with the MOthers steel wool pads. It's a lot of work, I know, but it's the best way I've found to keep a car turning heads in those cold winter months.
If that sounds like too much effort, I'd suggest using the turtle wax "wash 'n wax" product, the park your car in the garage and rent an 89 Cavalier for the winter. Hope you find these tips helpful, and happy motoring.
I do believe post #836 proceeded #839. If you feel a little tongue in cheek satire, is a "problem". Just e-mail the host. Click on his name at the top of this topic for his e-mail address.. I "shan't" be offended. By the way, I am not one of "them". I have posted at "their topic", maybe five times. I read this topic daily, your passion is compelling and infectious. But,... if you our truly honest, it is also a bit silly. So if PJ can poke fun at Turtle Wax, it was just to tempting...{%^D !!
taison--You might want to give Sal a call and see if there are any group purchases going on elsewhere that you can "piggy back" on.
protegextwo--no problem with satire here and no offense taken. I think that we are so beleaguered by the thrashing we get when we try to help out other "wax" topic participants that all of us in the "zaino" topic can be a little sensitive. Are we a little fanatical when it comes to keeping our cars nice? Maybe! Do we wash our cars regularly...yep! Do we look for ways to make our car care easier...yep! Do we know that "cheap towels" scratch the finish...yep! Do we look for the best possible durability and shine...yep! Can I wash/wax/detail my car in a couple of hours with Zaino...yep I don't think that we go through any more work than others who use the "off-the-shelf" brands (probably less work). We believe we get better results for our labor. Even considering the "boutique waxes" that I've tried (PS, Colonite, Pinnacle, etc), I still get better results with Zaino.
I've seen those that figure the best way to care for their cars is to treat it monthly to the "hot bath, penetrating foam, all-american superduper drive thru with a $1 off coupon with a fill-up" car washes. I've seen what those car washes do to a car's finish and it's not a look I would be happy with.
I bet if you tried Zaino on your Protege (both of them?), you would be in here posting with pride.
pj: First just got to say that I also saw that item on the 'other' board topic and was really tempted. But then I saw proto's bit here, 'sort of reminded me of an Iragy field manual for battle tank maintenance.
proto: 'Was tempted to recommend a surplus flame thrower for quick drying but pj beat me to the punch. 'True we sometimes get a little too serious about our finishes, but at least our pride is based on reality. And as graphicguy said, we've been attacked on a regular basis by lots of folks with closed minds. Silly turf battles. Your bit was funny, helped to loosen us up, and is more than welcome. By the way, its Wednesday for the towels of choice.
At the risk of sounding flippant - The cost looks high at first. I am just putting in my second order in a years time. And yes, I'm splurging by getting Z2,Z5,Z6,Z7,Z9,and Z10. Total cost including shipping is $73.65. But, I'm kind of particular about my car, so I'll apply it more often than it really "needs" it. BTW, the only one I am "out" of is Z2. All the rest have several more applications remaining.
I have a full size car (Chrysler 300M). If I did a typical "once in the spring, once in the fall" waxing on this car, a $21.90 order would last me 3 years. That's a little over $7.00 a year. So it doesn't cost much more than turtle wax. I don't mean to slam turtle wax, 20 years ago, I used it weekly (yes, I waxed my car once a week). My cars looked beautiful, too. As I've gotten older, and got a wife and kids, a weekly waxing was a bit hard to do. I found Zaino and it's a product that lasts, protects, and is very easy to apply.
Sorry to sound so flippant, but we all lurk on the other board, and when someone poses a question about an easy to apply long lasting "wax" - even the mere suggestion to "check out topic #1319" brings out the anti Z "you all are a cult and have a financial interest in that product" posts. So, one has to bite their tongue because newbies don't know what Zaino is (I certainly didn't), but you can't mention it on the other board. So, I post it here, hoping that someone who might wonder what Zaino is can see it. FWIW, most of the waxes recommended over there are not Turtle wax, they are just as costly (or more so) than a bottle of Z1 and Z2.
Robert, what do you mean; "pride based on reality"? You see I love your passion, nevertheless; "pride based on reality" appears to smack of superiority. Is it possible, that a regime of One Grand Special Touch, One Grand Omega Glaze, and One Grand Blitz Wax is in "reality" an awesome detailing program for under $35.00? For someone who has never tried Zaino or can not afford Zaino, the Blitz wax program IS "pride based on reality".
Robert, if you and the others here, at the Zaino after market topic care, and possibly they don't; step carefully or others may perceive you as an elitest? By the way, I personally think you are a very helpful and caring person. You love your Zaino and hope everyone gets the chance to try the Zaino products, and that my friend is very encouraging.
First, bat1161: Don't do it! As you drive around, any dust in the air will adhere to the drying Z2 and may become embedded in it. I made a similar mistake after washing my car once! 'Drove around and then observed all sorts of little water/dust spots on my "dry" car.
protegextwo (Larry): Ah, ya still working wit dem Tuesday towels, are ye? Of course, I always step carefully, especially where dogs have gone before me. Actually, I thank you for you comments and compliments. I didn't mean to sound elitest, and I don't (dispite temptation) go around knocking other products that I have not tried. I simply meant that I can and have tested and measured the results of my Zaino applications and am extremely happy with the them. I can see and touch (ie: reality) the product of those efforts and can take some measure of pride in that. That doesn't mean that other cannot do the same for their efforts with other products. Now elitests generally tend to 'keep' that which gives them that elite attitude 'close the vest' for fear of losing their elite status. We Zaino fans, on the other hand, are more than willing to help others and even recommend to all the very products which made us feel good about our detailing efforts. We're not elitests at all. We're just right!
It is the Zaino zealousness that precludes you, from the other paint care topics at Edmunds Town Hall! You can deny your perceived "elitest reputation", nonetheless you folks cannot convince Edmunds to add Wax/Polish into your topic title? Zaino Car Care, sounds like a new quick lube place. But then again, you are not elitests at all, your "just RIGHT!"
'Guess we all noticed that this site has been down for a few days. Ah, progress!
Larry: There's no doubt that you're correct about the preception of us Zaino fans in the other topic. And we probably deserve some of it. There were some who did 'diss.' other products in a nasty fashion. Its also true that emotions have run high on both sides. Some folks just become 'attached' to the products they buy and tend to rationalize their decisions in an unlogical manner. That's all folks, not just Zaino users. I've seen Zaino fans who went overboard, but I've also seen many more 'wax' fans who totally overreacted. Any mention of a 'Z' word and those guys start bouncing all over the place. Too bad 'cause there is a lot we can learn from each other. 'Guess that learning will just have to take place at 'arms length'. On the other hand, your skeptical yet open minded viewpoint and humor have helped us all to gain a better perspective. Thanks.
I've drven Protege's. I think that Mazda makes a great car that are way underrated. I'm sure yours look great. Now I must qualify myself and say I've never used the "One Grand" products, but have heard good things about them. To each his/her own.
I personally see no need to change products because, as you can tell, I'm a big believer in zaino. Now, I can imagine that some of the fervor that we whip up with regards to Zaino products can be miscontrued as "elitest" or that we have a financial stake in the company...none of this is true, however. I can only imagine what others, who aren't nearly as ardent about car care as we are, think about the advice we give and our dedication to Zaino.
BTW--my wife thinks I take car care way overboard, too. It's hard enough to get her to let me change her oil, let alone to do a "proper" detail job" on her car. My personal beef...she pays $30K for a car, yet has half drunk snapple bottles strewn everywhere you sit. Her idea of a car wash is the "drive-through, nylon brush etching" technique they use at the nearest BP. It makes me absolutely nuts!
Back before you began posting much in the Edmunds forums there was always a bit of a problem, no matter how little was ever said. Several months ago, someone in the other topic asked about a wax they could apply in direct sunlight, as they didn't have a garage. I merely posted that I knew of a product, but they would need to re-ask their question in this topic number. Then came the Ronald Reaganesque comments about "There you go again" from some of the others.
How exactly does one find out about Zaino if one is not to mention it? A year ago, when I got my new car, I also found this board. I saw a bunch of comments about Zaino, but had absolutely no idea of what Zaino was. I thought it was some sort of process like Ziebart. m Back then they didn't have a Zaino topic, but they did have the "no Zaino posts" topic. I finally asked (in another forum) what Zaino was. Reading some of the posts in that other forum (one of the many 300M topics), I was skeptical as hell. But, I figured that $20 wasn't going to break the bank so I tried it, and I was very impressed with it.
The original "no Zaino posts" topic started out with a misconception - "There is a topic on waxes that is mostly discussions about products, like Zaino, that require many hours of works and several costs, with waits between each coat" It went on to say he wanted something easy to use and would last about 6 months In other words, Zaino (you are a detailer - what cheap, easy to use car wax do you know of that lasts 6 months?). Reading about the numerous coats that everybody was then posting about, it did look like a lot of work. After I tried it and found how well it worked, and how easy it was to use, I made the mistake of referring back to post #1 in that topic, quoting it, and suggesting Zaino. I didn't say anything about Zaino being superior or anything else - I merely addressed the issue stated in the original post, and pointed out that I had good results with just one coat. Wrong thing to do. You would have thought I insulted their mama's.
So I lurk over there, but rarely post unless someone decides to insinuate that Sal Zaino must be sending checks my way. Doesn't happen. BTW, I don't use 100% made in USA towels, just the ones that made it from my linen closet to the "rag bag", I used green Dawn, not blue, and I still get pretty decent results. Sorry, I'm not big on death threats on the internet since my "handle" is awfully close to my real name - makes it a tad too easy to trace.
It is probably ok to drive your car while waiting for the Z2 to dry. I wouldn't drive all day though. Maybe a 1/2 hour to an hour to run some errands or whatever. Unless you keep your car garaged you can't prevent birds from crapping on it while waiting for it to dry either. I also wouldn;t drive it around if there are a lot of puddles anywhere.
To Others: Some Zaino supporters are way too zealous: For them they seem to live by "give me Zaino or give me death". Jeez, its just a car polish -- not a way of life.
I HAVE been busy trying to get that OTHER server up and running....please don't ask: I don't like to cry in public. {%^(
Remember, the whole reason we separated these topics is because all you guys did was talk about EACH OTHER and not the topic. So now you talk about each other in your own private Idaho..?!?
Bnormann, "What is the point in that?", well... I feel, "no harm, no foul". Both topics where getting a little monotonous. A little innocuous debate and some humor was good for the wax topics, IMHO. Nobody went off the deep end, no tirades or nasty diatribes to offend anyone new to the Zaino topic. I learned a lot about, why many of the regulars at both topics, enjoy posting here at Edmunds. But, your timing is perfect, back to the topic.
Bnormann, if what I observed Wednesday was a harbinger of the new update, I am disappointed. No spellcheck or update placemark features. There was no mention of the apparent troublesome download in yesterdays Edmunds.com Newsletter. Just an invitation to visit the newly updated Town Hall Talk site on Monday, November 6th? It seems obvious there was a major problem with the download. Perhaps you can shed some light on this intrigue?
In the More Talk to the Hosts topic in the News and Views Conference, Bonnie Rick indicated that an email would be coming out to Town Hall members indicating what happened.
There will be no placemarks when the software is successfully upgraded.
I believe that a spellchecker was scheduled to be added eventually to the new site, so perhaps that will be in place when the switch is made. Not sure of this, though.
I saw the Newsletter also, and I am guessing that was one of those "deadline" problems - things were very much in flux when it was being prepared. To my knowledge, nothing will change around here on Monday. Watch for the email that Bonnie promised.
Everyone interested in this subject should keep an eye on that topic I linked above - that is where a lot of conversation is taking place about what happened earlier in the week. The discussion starts around post #400.
I made a post over there suggesting a way to use a folder on your browser's Links Bar (IE) or Personal Tool Bar (Netscape) as a good substitute for Placemarks. If anyone wants any more details on that concept, please let me know.
Let me know if I can help in any way. You can email me at any time, and as I say, we are talking about this in the topic I linked above.
Now, who Z'd their car today?
I had all intentions of washing my car and cleaning the interior - and it's been a perfect day for it - but I've been stuck inside all day dealing with a major LAN disaster of my own at my real job!
:-)
Pat Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
I didn't know we were in a fight? We are in here talking about Zaino techniques. Where's the fight in that?
The only time I post in the "other" forum is when I can lend a hand. Because of the sensitivity "over there" with regards to Zaino, I make particularly certain never to mention what brand I recommend personally.
Every once in a while, I'll make reference to this topic in the "Paint and Body" forum, but that's the extent of it.
I was going to Zaino today, but I ran into an old "college chum" last night and...well...let's just say I didn't "feel like" zainoing today.
fastdriver--I wish you lived closer. I could have brought my car over and we could have zaino'd the "twins" together. If I get energetic, I'll even take pictures of the newly Zaino'd, newest member of my automotive family.
Fastdriver and graphicguy are worried about a couple of posts and come Monday, Edmunds Town Hall Talk will be gone, as we know it! The new version will be worse than lickspittle.
Edmunds isn't going anywhere on Monday. This site will most likely remain until the end of the year or until they work out all the bugs with the new version.
Come on, now!!! (not to be off-topic, but....) The placemark feature is one of the best features I've come across on forum boards, one of the reasons I always check Edmunds before the others.
It's iritating when I go to Miata.net's forum and have to scroll down thru posts I've already read.
Gosh, maybe I'd better mix a 7&7 and Z the Miata..........
I did not say you were wrong. I just have a healthy dose of skepticism in regards to communication between the hosts and the Town Hall members. Your info was correct!
If you check out that topic I linked earlier, you'll learn some things. For one, you shouldn't have to keep going through posts you've already read, it appears that the new site will keep track of that just as this one does. At least that's the plan.
Pat Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
Thanks! I had jsut finished washing the cars, and the lighting was just right to show these great reflections. After studying this for a while. I realize that it is the distict clarity of the detail in the reflections that sets the Z shine apart from others. I call it a "hard" shine vs. a "soft" shine that I got from waxes.
No problem. There are some of us here who DO know what we're talking about despite all the knocks that we take. I guess that's life.
As for the "debate" going on in this topic and the other one, it's a joke. Personally, I don't care what ANYONE uses to clean their car. I just know what Zaino looks like on my 300M. I have used many different kinds of waxes/polishes over the past 40+ years. Nothing has given me the shine, protection(if you go by water beading?) and longevity that Zaino has. It's easy to apply and wipe off with no white residue or hazing. I have NEVER had to let my car dry for hours before wiping it off. I have read that many times about Zaino. I guess it all depends on where you live. Of course, I don't apply it on a humid day. In 45 minutes, I can have the car Z'd and wiped off. I'm talking about a Chrysler 300M, not a Toyota Corolla.
If someone is happy with Nufinish, that's fine with me. Some people are more passionate about keeping their car looking its best. Some are happy if they just run it through a car wash from time to time. Everyone's opinion about what is clean and what looks good is different.
I say- use what you can afford, what makes you happy and what works for you. I know what works for me.
I finished polishing the car (dawn, clay, z7, z1, Z2, z6, ..... , z7, z2). It still looks great. It's time to move on. Can some one direct me to a place/topic with info about scotchgard on upholstery and carpets. I remember reading about this but can't find it.
mbdriver is correct (although I'm not quite sure about the carcinogen part...I thought they pulled it because they were going to focus their products on less "niche" products) about Scotchguard not being on the market anymore.
I have seen some of it left over at various autoparts stores, but not much.
I just finished using it on my new 300M. It took about 15 minuntes to do all the carpets and about another 2 hours to dry. I've used it for years with great results. This is the same stuff auto dealers would use in their "protection packages" and charge $250 and up for. I think I paid $6 a can and used maybe half a can in my car.
I also stocked up on it given that it is no longer going to be on the market.
Scotchguard - They said it was possibly harmful to the Ozone layer. STOCK UP NOW!!!!! It is especially helpful on your floor mats, but it saved my seat from some beach tar a while back.
By the way, regardless of the color of your carpets, it is a really good idea to ask for Charcoal colored (not black) floor mats when you buy your car. They always match, and show the dirt the least over the years.
I've looked at the pix some of you posted, and Zaino seems to be really something!
Do you know if one can apply Zaino on the car paint that was in the past years "sealed" with other paint sealants (I've used AutoFom and Prolong). I undestand I need to dawn,wash,clay, wash, Z1... but will Z really stick to that polymer foil that was formed by previously applied polymer sealants?
I am pretty sure that dawn-wash-clay sequence will destroy carnauba was layer, but what about polymer protective layer?
Many people swear by Liquid Glass. What are pros/cons of Zaino vs Liquid Glass? If I try LG and then decide to switch to Z, will Z stick (see my previous post about Z after polymer sealants)?
To answer part of your question: ZAINO: Pros: NO abrasives, great shine, No residue, lasts long time. Cons: Zaino is a multi-step product that takes time and may take time to learn to apply. When the say apply thinly they mean THIN!! It may also be more expensive initially if price is a factor.
LIQUID GLASS: Pros: Great Shine, lasts long time
Cons: Contains abrasives--and for this reason alone I would not use it. Leaves a dry powdery residue but not very bad.
I am not sure the effect of putting it over other polymers. It would depend on how long ago the other products were applied. Possibly you would need to use isopropyl alchohol...At least that is what is said to use to remove Zaino.
I agree generally with joebob6, except that Zaino is a multi-step product ONLY INITIALLY -- Dawn wash, clay, wash, Z-1, Z-2. Subsequently, it's a single-step product (unless you include the Z-7 wash first -- and who would apply polish to an unwashed surface?).
Many Zaino converts use Z-6 after Z-2, but I've found that to be an overkill on my brilliant silver paint. It's dazzling with Z-2 alone! Perhaps the Z-2, Z-6 steps are more applicable to a dark finish. I do use Z-6 between washes, but only after I remove any light coat of dust with a 100% cotton-made-in-USA white towel (using very light pressure on the towel).
I'd also add one additional and significant pro to the Zaino column -- subsequent upkeep and maintenance using Zaino is a breeze! Just wipe the Z-2 on (use very sparingly, less is better), let it dry, wipe off. No buffing or polishing, and no residue. And as to expense, it's probably cheaper in the long run because it's more durable than anything out there and needs to be used sparingly.
Regarding applying Zaino over another polymer, suggest you contact Sal Zaino directly. He is quick to respond to e-mails and almost always seems to answer telephone calls himself. He'll provide the gospel. URL: www.zainobros.com
Sounds good to me. WHAT do we have to lose? Everyone thinks that Sal pays us or that we have Zaino stock anyway. No matter what we say makes no difference. They "hear" what they want to hear and believe what they want to believe. The ONLY time I have even been in any controversy is when they falsely accuse us something that simply isn't true.
Personally I don't care what wax/polish anyone uses. I just figure that if they're in this kind of topic, then they're looking for something to protect their car and make it look great. Zaino does that for me which is why I post so many pics of my car in case they don't believe the shine on the cars on the Zaino website. My car is driven every day and garaged at night and has never been through a car wash with brushes or cloth strips. It is now 29 months old and has never been clayed!
Right now, I am working on a 1994 Toyota Corolla that is outside 24/7. I cannot remember when the last time was that I waxed it. In the winter, it does go through the cloth strip car wash that does use some kind of Blue Coral hot wax. This is the only thing that I can think that would make the car look so good for not having been waxed/polished in several years. A few weeks ago, I did the whole Z treatment including the clay. It only has one coat of Z-5/Z-6 on it. The car looks incredible. I have been too busy to continue with Z-2/Z-6, plus the weather has suddenly turned much cooler lately. I will do a few more coats as soon as the weather cooperates and I have the time. It's a Sand Beige Metallic color. I will post some pics as soon as I am done.
kate5000-
I think mbdriver's advice is good- call Sal. He always answers the phone. If I remember correctly, mbdriver was reluctant to try Zaino on his new BLACK Mercedes because he heard that it was bad for German paint. So, I posted some pics of my cousin's black BMW 2-seater convertible that I had recently Zainoed at the time he inquired. I think that convinced him. I just recently posted a few more pics of that car after a year with NO additional coats of Zaino. It looks great IMHO.
People can wax their cars with lard for all I care...If they like the way it looks, fine. I KNOW how my car looks with Zaino, and how well it stays clean, etc. IMHO, the other cars may look good...mine looks great!
I posted about Z on the other forum only when it seemed like Z might work for them. The funny thing is, the "no Z posts" topic was started by a guy who wanted something that was easy to use and would last 6 months. You and I know of a product the fits the bill, but according to the title, we aren't allowed to post it. You dog-gone zealots made him think Z was a lot of work! Heck, I didn't clay my car either, so the Z1 - Z2 applications were super easy. The only time I fire back is when we are accused of having a financial stake in Zaino.
You actually swayed me - I placed an order last week and even included Z6. Not sure what it will do to a white car, but I can always use it on my TV and computer monitor ;>).
Comments
Isn't it about time????????
It seems like a form of discrimination, I think. Comments?
Mmmmmmmmm..........are THEY allowed to come into this group and harass us? They'd be in a REAL TWIT if we posted something like this in their topic.
Oh well, let them have their fun. We KNOW our cars look the best and are the best protected. I know what my car looks like after a winter wash. Maybe bnormann will address this problem, although with 839 messages, I don't think he's around.
fastdriver
But, it was a nice test to see who lurks. I reserved my words for the Z board, since anyone who attempts to even suggest something that might solve their "problem" is looked upon as shill or cult member.
Protegextwo - here's my tip for you. Wintertime is extremely rough on a car. YOu'll want the deep cleaning properties of Meguires #7 sulfuric acid bath. To insure that squeeky clean paint and to cut thru the road salt, you should dry your car with 40 grade sandpaper (try to avoid the power sander as they tend to leave swirl marks). Follow that with a couple of coats of "blitzkrieg" instant hot wax. Be careful, as the acetelyne torch that is required to "deep seat" the blitzkreig wax can burn the paint if left in one spot for too long. Let is sit overnight before buffing it off with the MOthers steel wool pads. It's a lot of work, I know, but it's the best way I've found to keep a car turning heads in those cold winter months.
If that sounds like too much effort, I'd suggest using the turtle wax "wash 'n wax" product, the park your car in the garage and rent an 89 Cavalier for the winter. Hope you find these tips helpful, and happy motoring.
Larry
Larry
protegextwo--no problem with satire here and no offense taken. I think that we are so beleaguered by the thrashing we get when we try to help out other "wax" topic participants that all of us in the "zaino" topic can be a little sensitive. Are we a little fanatical when it comes to keeping our cars nice? Maybe! Do we wash our cars regularly...yep! Do we look for ways to make our car care easier...yep! Do we know that "cheap towels" scratch the finish...yep! Do we look for the best possible durability and shine...yep! Can I wash/wax/detail my car in a couple of hours with Zaino...yep I don't think that we go through any more work than others who use the "off-the-shelf" brands (probably less work). We believe we get better results for our labor. Even considering the "boutique waxes" that I've tried (PS, Colonite, Pinnacle, etc), I still get better results with Zaino.
I've seen those that figure the best way to care for their cars is to treat it monthly to the "hot bath, penetrating foam, all-american superduper drive thru with a $1 off coupon with a fill-up" car washes. I've seen what those car washes do to a car's finish and it's not a look I would be happy with.
I bet if you tried Zaino on your Protege (both of them?), you would be in here posting with pride.
proto: 'Was tempted to recommend a surplus flame thrower for quick drying but pj beat me to the punch. 'True we sometimes get a little too serious about our finishes, but at least our pride is based on reality. And as graphicguy said, we've been attacked on a regular basis by lots of folks with closed minds. Silly turf battles. Your bit was funny, helped to loosen us up, and is more than welcome. By the way, its Wednesday for the towels of choice.
I have a full size car (Chrysler 300M). If I did a typical "once in the spring, once in the fall" waxing on this car, a $21.90 order would last me 3 years. That's a little over $7.00 a year. So it doesn't cost much more than turtle wax. I don't mean to slam turtle wax, 20 years ago, I used it weekly (yes, I waxed my car once a week). My cars looked beautiful, too. As I've gotten older, and got a wife and kids, a weekly waxing was a bit hard to do. I found Zaino and it's a product that lasts, protects, and is very easy to apply.
Sorry to sound so flippant, but we all lurk on the other board, and when someone poses a question about an easy to apply long lasting "wax" - even the mere suggestion to "check out topic #1319" brings out the anti Z "you all are a cult and have a financial interest in that product" posts. So, one has to bite their tongue because newbies don't know what Zaino is (I certainly didn't), but you can't mention it on the other board. So, I post it here, hoping that someone who might wonder what Zaino is can see it. FWIW, most of the waxes recommended over there are not Turtle wax, they are just as costly (or more so) than a bottle of Z1 and Z2.
Robert, if you and the others here, at the Zaino after market topic care, and possibly they don't; step carefully or others may perceive you as an elitest? By the way, I personally think you are a very helpful and caring person. You love your Zaino and hope everyone gets the chance to try the Zaino products, and that my friend is very encouraging.
Respectfully,
Larry
bat1161: Don't do it! As you drive around, any dust in the air will adhere to the drying Z2 and may become embedded in it. I made a similar mistake after washing my car once! 'Drove around and then observed all sorts of little water/dust spots on my "dry" car.
protegextwo (Larry): Ah, ya still working wit dem Tuesday towels, are ye? Of course, I always step carefully, especially where dogs have gone before me. Actually, I thank you for you comments and compliments. I didn't mean to sound elitest, and I don't (dispite temptation) go around knocking other products that I have not tried. I simply meant that I can and have tested and measured the results of my Zaino applications and am extremely happy with the them. I can see and touch (ie: reality) the product of those efforts and can take some measure of pride in that. That doesn't mean that other cannot do the same for their efforts with other products. Now elitests generally tend to 'keep' that which gives them that elite attitude 'close the vest' for fear of losing their elite status. We Zaino fans, on the other hand, are more than willing to help others and even recommend to all the very products which made us feel good about our detailing efforts. We're not elitests at all. We're just right!
Respectfully,
Larry
I think adding Wax/Polish to Zaino's title is the LEAST of Edmunds worries right now. They're working on getting the new site up and running.
fastdriver
Larry: There's no doubt that you're correct about the preception of us Zaino fans in the other topic. And we probably deserve some of it. There were some who did 'diss.' other products in a nasty fashion. Its also true that emotions have run high on both sides. Some folks just become 'attached' to the products they buy and tend to rationalize their decisions in an unlogical manner. That's all folks, not just Zaino users. I've seen Zaino fans who went overboard, but I've also seen many more 'wax' fans who totally overreacted. Any mention of a 'Z' word and those guys start bouncing all over the place. Too bad 'cause there is a lot we can learn from each other. 'Guess that learning will just have to take place at 'arms length'. On the other hand, your skeptical yet open minded viewpoint and humor have helped us all to gain a better perspective. Thanks.
I personally see no need to change products because, as you can tell, I'm a big believer in zaino. Now, I can imagine that some of the fervor that we whip up with regards to Zaino products can be miscontrued as "elitest" or that we have a financial stake in the company...none of this is true, however. I can only imagine what others, who aren't nearly as ardent about car care as we are, think about the advice we give and our dedication to Zaino.
BTW--my wife thinks I take car care way overboard, too. It's hard enough to get her to let me change her oil, let alone to do a "proper" detail job" on her car. My personal beef...she pays $30K for a car, yet has half drunk snapple bottles strewn everywhere you sit. Her idea of a car wash is the "drive-through, nylon brush etching" technique they use at the nearest BP. It makes me absolutely nuts!
How exactly does one find out about Zaino if one is not to mention it? A year ago, when I got my new car, I also found this board. I saw a bunch of comments about Zaino, but had absolutely no idea of what Zaino was. I thought it was some sort of process like Ziebart. m Back then they didn't have a Zaino topic, but they did have the "no Zaino posts" topic. I finally asked (in another forum) what Zaino was. Reading some of the posts in that other forum (one of the many 300M topics), I was skeptical as hell. But, I figured that $20 wasn't going to break the bank so I tried it, and I was very impressed with it.
The original "no Zaino posts" topic started out with a misconception - "There is a topic on waxes that is mostly discussions about products, like Zaino, that require many hours of works and several costs, with waits between each coat" It went on to say he wanted something easy to use and would last about 6 months In other words, Zaino (you are a detailer - what cheap, easy to use car wax do you know of that lasts 6 months?). Reading about the numerous coats that everybody was then posting about, it did look like a lot of work. After I tried it and found how well it worked, and how easy it was to use, I made the mistake of referring back to post #1 in that topic, quoting it, and suggesting Zaino. I didn't say anything about Zaino being superior or anything else - I merely addressed the issue stated in the original post, and pointed out that I had good results with just one coat. Wrong thing to do. You would have thought I insulted their mama's.
So I lurk over there, but rarely post unless someone decides to insinuate that Sal Zaino must be sending checks my way. Doesn't happen. BTW, I don't use 100% made in USA towels, just the ones that made it from my linen closet to the "rag bag", I used green Dawn, not blue, and I still get pretty decent results. Sorry, I'm not big on death threats on the internet since my "handle" is awfully close to my real name - makes it a tad too easy to trace.
To Others: Some Zaino supporters are way too zealous: For them they seem to live by "give me Zaino or give me death". Jeez, its just a car polish -- not a way of life.
I HAVE been busy trying to get that OTHER server up and running....please don't ask: I don't like to cry in public. {%^(
Remember, the whole reason we separated these topics is because all you guys did was talk about EACH OTHER and not the topic. So now you talk about each other in your own private Idaho..?!?
What's the point in that?
Bnormann, if what I observed Wednesday was a harbinger of the new update, I am disappointed. No spellcheck or update placemark features. There was no mention of the apparent troublesome download in yesterdays Edmunds.com Newsletter. Just an invitation to visit the newly updated Town Hall Talk site on Monday, November 6th? It seems obvious there was a major problem with the download. Perhaps you can shed some light on this intrigue?
Respectfully,
Protegextwo
In the More Talk to the Hosts topic in the News and Views Conference, Bonnie Rick indicated that an email would be coming out to Town Hall members indicating what happened.
There will be no placemarks when the software is successfully upgraded.
I believe that a spellchecker was scheduled to be added eventually to the new site, so perhaps that will be in place when the switch is made. Not sure of this, though.
I saw the Newsletter also, and I am guessing that was one of those "deadline" problems - things were very much in flux when it was being prepared. To my knowledge, nothing will change around here on Monday. Watch for the email that Bonnie promised.
Everyone interested in this subject should keep an eye on that topic I linked above - that is where a lot of conversation is taking place about what happened earlier in the week. The discussion starts around post #400.
I made a post over there suggesting a way to use a folder on your browser's Links Bar (IE) or Personal Tool Bar (Netscape) as a good substitute for Placemarks. If anyone wants any more details on that concept, please let me know.
Let me know if I can help in any way. You can email me at any time, and as I say, we are talking about this in the topic I linked above.
Now, who Z'd their car today?
I had all intentions of washing my car and cleaning the interior - and it's been a perfect day for it - but I've been stuck inside all day dealing with a major LAN disaster of my own at my real job!
:-)
Pat
Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
I did. I did. I Z'd Christine!
fastdriver
PS 863 messages and everything is working perfectly HERE! ;-))
The only time I post in the "other" forum is when I can lend a hand. Because of the sensitivity "over there" with regards to Zaino, I make particularly certain never to mention what brand I recommend personally.
Every once in a while, I'll make reference to this topic in the "Paint and Body" forum, but that's the extent of it.
I was going to Zaino today, but I ran into an old "college chum" last night and...well...let's just say I didn't "feel like" zainoing today.
fastdriver--I wish you lived closer. I could have brought my car over and we could have zaino'd the "twins" together. If I get energetic, I'll even take pictures of the newly Zaino'd, newest member of my automotive family.
Maybe tomorrow.
Edmunds isn't going anywhere on Monday. This site will most likely remain until the end of the year or until they work out all the bugs with the new version.
fastdriver
Guess you'll SEE tomorrow!
fastdriver
It's iritating when I go to Miata.net's forum and have to scroll down thru posts I've already read.
Gosh, maybe I'd better mix a 7&7 and Z the Miata..........
Jim M.
'Getting a little tired of all this z/no z cross talk.
Respectfully,
Protegextwo
Pat
Community Leader/Maintenance & Repair Conference
No problem. There are some of us here who DO know what we're talking about despite all the knocks that we take. I guess that's life.
As for the "debate" going on in this topic and the other one, it's a joke. Personally, I don't care what ANYONE uses to clean their car. I just know what Zaino looks like on my 300M. I have used many different kinds of waxes/polishes over the past 40+ years. Nothing has given me the shine, protection(if you go by water beading?) and longevity that Zaino has. It's easy to apply and wipe off with no white residue or hazing. I have NEVER had to let my car dry for hours before wiping it off. I have read that many times about Zaino. I guess it all depends on where you live. Of course, I don't apply it on a humid day. In 45 minutes, I can have the car Z'd and wiped off. I'm talking about a Chrysler 300M, not a Toyota Corolla.
If someone is happy with Nufinish, that's fine with me. Some people are more passionate about keeping their car looking its best. Some are happy if they just run it through a car wash from time to time. Everyone's opinion about what is clean and what looks good is different.
I say- use what you can afford, what makes you happy and what works for you. I know what works for me.
Peace.
fastdriver
We need to make new topics anyway and it seems there is SOME controversy regarding the names...
Here's my suggestion:
Wax,Polish,Paint,Body Care: ZAINO, Experiences and
Tips
Wax,Polish,Paint,Body Care: STORE BOUGHT,
Experiences and Tips
Wax,Polish,Paint,Body Care: What's the best?
The rules are: anyone trying to play "mine's
better than yours" in the first two topics gets
summarily deleted.
Can you live with that?
Your host, Bruce
Can some one direct me to a place/topic with info about scotchgard on upholstery and carpets. I remember reading about this but can't find it.
Good luck.
I have seen some of it left over at various autoparts stores, but not much.
I just finished using it on my new 300M. It took about 15 minuntes to do all the carpets and about another 2 hours to dry. I've used it for years with great results. This is the same stuff auto dealers would use in their "protection packages" and charge $250 and up for. I think I paid $6 a can and used maybe half a can in my car.
I also stocked up on it given that it is no longer going to be on the market.
Your idea is good and equal. Thanks.
Scotchguard -
They said it was possibly harmful to the Ozone layer. STOCK UP NOW!!!!! It is especially helpful on your floor mats, but it saved my seat from some beach tar a while back.
By the way, regardless of the color of your carpets, it is a really good idea to ask for Charcoal colored (not black) floor mats when you buy your car. They always match, and show the dirt the least over the years.
Do you know if one can apply Zaino on the car paint that was in the past years "sealed" with other paint sealants (I've used AutoFom and Prolong). I undestand I need to dawn,wash,clay, wash, Z1... but will Z really stick to that polymer foil that was formed by previously applied polymer sealants?
I am pretty sure that dawn-wash-clay sequence will destroy carnauba was layer, but what about polymer protective layer?
ZAINO:
Pros: NO abrasives, great shine, No residue, lasts long time.
Cons: Zaino is a multi-step product that takes time and may take time to learn to apply. When the say apply thinly they mean THIN!! It may also be more expensive initially if price is a factor.
LIQUID GLASS:
Pros: Great Shine, lasts long time
Cons: Contains abrasives--and for this reason alone I would not use it. Leaves a dry powdery residue but not very bad.
I am not sure the effect of putting it over other polymers. It would depend on how long ago the other products were applied. Possibly you would need to use isopropyl alchohol...At least that is what is said to use to remove Zaino.
Many Zaino converts use Z-6 after Z-2, but I've found that to be an overkill on my brilliant silver paint. It's dazzling with Z-2 alone! Perhaps the Z-2, Z-6 steps are more applicable to a dark finish. I do use Z-6 between washes, but only after I remove any light coat of dust with a 100% cotton-made-in-USA white towel (using very light pressure on the towel).
I'd also add one additional and significant pro to the Zaino column -- subsequent upkeep and maintenance using Zaino is a breeze! Just wipe the Z-2 on (use very sparingly, less is better), let it dry, wipe off. No buffing or polishing, and no residue. And as to expense, it's probably cheaper in the long run because it's more durable than anything out there and needs to be used sparingly.
Regarding applying Zaino over another polymer, suggest you contact Sal Zaino directly. He is quick to respond to e-mails and almost always seems to answer telephone calls himself. He'll provide the gospel. URL: www.zainobros.com
Good luck!
Sounds good to me. WHAT do we have to lose? Everyone thinks that Sal pays us or that we have Zaino stock anyway. No matter what we say makes no difference. They "hear" what they want to hear and believe what they want to believe. The ONLY time I have even been in any controversy is when they falsely accuse us something that simply isn't true.
Personally I don't care what wax/polish anyone uses. I just figure that if they're in this kind of topic, then they're looking for something to protect their car and make it look great. Zaino does that for me which is why I post so many pics of my car in case they don't believe the shine on the cars on the Zaino website. My car is driven every day and garaged at night and has never been through a car wash with brushes or cloth strips. It is now 29 months old and has never been clayed!
Right now, I am working on a 1994 Toyota Corolla that is outside 24/7. I cannot remember when the last time was that I waxed it. In the winter, it does go through the cloth strip car wash that does use some kind of Blue Coral hot wax. This is the only thing that I can think that would make the car look so good for not having been waxed/polished in several years. A few weeks ago, I did the whole Z treatment including the clay. It only has one coat of Z-5/Z-6 on it. The car looks incredible. I have been too busy to continue with Z-2/Z-6, plus the weather has suddenly turned much cooler lately. I will do a few more coats as soon as the weather cooperates and I have the time. It's a Sand Beige Metallic color. I will post some pics as soon as I am done.
kate5000-
I think mbdriver's advice is good- call Sal. He always answers the phone. If I remember correctly, mbdriver was reluctant to try Zaino on his new BLACK Mercedes because he heard that it was bad for German paint. So, I posted some pics of my cousin's black BMW 2-seater convertible that I had recently Zainoed at the time he inquired. I think that convinced him. I just recently posted a few more pics of that car after a year with NO additional coats of Zaino. It looks great IMHO.
fastdriver
I posted about Z on the other forum only when it seemed like Z might work for them. The funny thing is, the "no Z posts" topic was started by a guy who wanted something that was easy to use and would last 6 months. You and I know of a product the fits the bill, but according to the title, we aren't allowed to post it. You dog-gone zealots made him think Z was a lot of work! Heck, I didn't clay my car either, so the Z1 - Z2 applications were super easy. The only time I fire back is when we are accused of having a financial stake in Zaino.
You actually swayed me - I placed an order last week and even included Z6. Not sure what it will do to a white car, but I can always use it on my TV and computer monitor ;>).