If it removed wax, then most of the cars in the world would have streaks of wax free areas on the hoods, roofs and trunk areas. There is a big difference between removing waxes and bugs, but I AM sure that undiluted windshield washer fluid has enough alcohol to remove most waxes. If properly diluted, I don't think it will remove waxes, but that blue color is so pervasive that I wouldn't leave it on for long if I had a choice.
fastdriver, The whole weekend was a wash out up in Otis,Ma. They still have 3 feet of snow/ice, and it was about 32 degrees. And then it started to rain. At least you had a chance, but the CL-S looks great.
dpettyjo: Welcome aboard, how does it look.
bidandsell: Not, Zaino will NOT be affected by your common windshield washing liquid. I even apply Z6 to my windshield.
Even though I was quite careful when applying the Z-2, I got some on my door handles which are a textured black metal. What is the best way to remove this?
I have two black vehicles, a motorcycle and an SUV. The SUV is new so it is marginally more shiny, but the motorcycle is like a totally different vehicle, very dark and glossy.
Glad that you finally got good weather so you could protect the finish. Christine is going to miss your attention (not that she was very appreciative!).
I forgot the digital camera this weekend. I have it now. SUN is finally out! Have to wash her again because it rained yesterday and was misty earlier today. I will take some pics this afternoon and post them at YAHOO since photopoint is switching to a pay site. I might just pay it though because I have too many pics there to move. You should see that red with only two coats of Z-2/Z-6.
Christine might miss me, but I DON'T miss her! Getting in the 20's for gas mileage so far. Last night's tank got 24 MPG!! Only got that a few times with the 300M! Already have over 1,400 miles since 3/28! Can't drive her enough. ;-))
fastdriver
PS Leaving for FL on Friday. Wish I was driving the CL-S.
My lease is up this summer and I have my eyes set on a brand spankin'new Maxima (neutral silver - I can't deal with another black car) In the past, I haven't been so good with really taking care of my cars besides the basic washes (I know, I'm a horrible person). However, I would like to change my wicked ways for my new baby - since I'll be keeping this one. I've been reading all about the Zaino 12-step program so any help with the following questions would be great! 1. Is it more for protecting or making your car look really nice, or both? My first interest would be to protect so if there's something better than Zaino... 2. If the car is brand new, when should I start? Do I need to do the clay thing even with a new car? (seems like a lot of work!) 3. How often, do I have to do this (minimally)? And, do I just keep adding more coats - or do I have to take the other coats off and start all over again? 4. Is it safe to apply "the stuff" everywhere but windows? What should I avoid? 4. How's Zaino's leather stuff? It will be my first time with leather too! Is there a better product for leather out there? And again, how often do I have to do a leather treatment? 5. When I order the stuff - how long does one bottle of it last? 6. Do I need to have a big brawny man to help me with this or is it something that I can do fairly easily on my own? Thanks a lot!
1. Is it more for protecting or making your car look really nice, or both? My first interest would be to protect so if there's something better than Zaino...
Both - it shines and protects
2. If the car is brand new, when should I start? Do I need to do the clay thing even with a new car? (seems like a lot of work!)
Put it on as soon as you can. Claying? I didn't do it on my new car and it still turned out nice. IMHO, if you aren't a "stickler", you won't need to clay
3. How often, do I have to do this (minimally)? And, do I just keep adding more coats - or do I have to take the other coats off and start all over again?
It can last about 6 months. So if you really aren't into detailing, twice a year should keep it looking good and protected
4. Is it safe to apply "the stuff" everywhere but windows? What should I avoid?
Avoid textured plastic. Everything else is fair game.
4. How's Zaino's leather stuff? It will be my first time with leather too! Is there a better product for leather out there? And again, how often do I have to do a leather treatment?
I really like the leather treatment. Z9 cleans most anything off, and Z10 really keeps it smelling "new". It really doesn't take any time to do the leather treatment either
5. When I order the stuff - how long does one bottle of it last?
Z1 should last a REALLY long time. One bottle of Z2 managed to cover a 300M 5 times and a Taraus once. A little goes a VERY long way
6. Do I need to have a big brawny man to help me with this or is it something that I can do fairly easily on my own?
If I were single, I'd tell you that you needed a man to do this for you ;>) Actually, you'll be very suprised at how easy it goes on. Really, just wipe it on, let it dry, and wipe it off.
PICS POSTED!!! Just in time too! You should see how pitch BLACK it is out right now. Fast moving thunderstorm and rain coming through any minute. These pics have 3 coats of Z-2/Z-6 including the clay treatment. Got the car on 3/28/01/
It all SOUNDS complicated, but it's not! Once all the initial steps are taken, it's a BREEZE to keep that wet look shine. I like the description- 12 step program. There are some in the "wax" topic who think we ALL need a 12 step program for our addiction to Zaino! As you can see, from pjyoung's response, we are all here to help! Seeing is believing! Take a look at my pics above.
joebob6-
Thanks for the link. So far the Yahoo seems okay. I already have a Yahoo e-mail address that I rarely use, so adding the pics was nothing.
I am getting ready to use Zaino for the first time on my 2001 Impala. I have read to use only 100% Cotton (Made In USA)Towels. I went to my local K-Mart and found many choices that fit this category. Which ones? The least expensive white towels have no banding but do not feel that soft (will they scratch?) There is a version that does have some banding but they feel softer, and then there is the Martha Stewart towels, they feel very soft, but kind of fancy looking, they are also much more expensive. Which ones to use?
I did buy the fluffier ones, but I did not buy the big size ones because they are too hard to handle. They are 100% cotton, Made in the USA- NOT Martha Stewart!! LOL....
To all- The link above to my pics is not correct. It should be-
Dani329 DO the clay, even on a new car. There are lots of reasons (see them at www.erazer.com) but the best reason is that it will make the car SOOOOO smooth, that the application of the Z products will be even easier. The applicator will just glide over the car. It only takes me about 15-20 minutes to cover my Solara, and 10 minutes or so to polish it off after it is dry.
Also- If you REALLY want your new car to look its best, instruct the dealer NOT to detail the car when it comes in, and wash and polish it yourself the first time. It is these dealer cleaning and waxing jobs that cause a lot of the swirl marks on new cars.
fastdriver, Gotta love that car and the Zaino you applied. Great pics with a few exceptions: That very first pic looks like the CL-S has no tires. The angle is just a bit funny. Its hard to photograph a solid color car and colors like red and darker ones too have a hard time showing deep shines. I noticed that the ones on Sal's site use reflections of objects to show off the shine. Of course, the pictures in that second line really show the shine well. Thanks!
dani329, Like the others here, I think you'll find Zaino very easy to apply. I agree with automophile that claying your new car is a good idea and will insure a longer lasting paint surface/ clear coat.
tiger01, Ah towels. Again, you want 100% white cotton made in USA only. Fancy brands only add cost. Try Fieldcrest or Cannon.
I have a 97 TOY (dark green 15,000 miles) and a new black Buick and after reading about this product for many months decided to give it a try. I have been using Mequairs # 26 and Collinite and getting a great shine. I am testing in two manners. Trying in one section without removing the Collinite (I know, not in accordance with instructions) that is on there and going with Z!,Z2, Z6 and then will wash and get the other wax off another section and try and see the diff. So far, without removing the old wax there does appear to be a diff (could be lighting effect) after the first application, but I will keep you informed. Not sure IMHO if the diff can really be noticeable on a finish already in great shape but based upon comments here you swear I will see a diff after a few coats. I hope so. I sure am collecting a shelf full of waxes/polishes though.
Alright! Be objective and please tell us the results.
I last applied a layer of Z2 around Thanksgiving of last year and its still beading water. I would have done a lot more, but as fastdriver can tell you, conditions here in the North East have not been kind to anyone this year. I'm still amazed at the endurance of Z2.
I'm taking delivery of a Navy Blue 2001 Impala LS in May. I'm doing the exterior "dealer prep" to avoid their swirls, then I'm Zainoing (including clay) right away. I've even arranged for some flexible days off so that I can do it virtually on day one!
Come on back to the Impala discussion group and tell us how you're doing! Brad
I sent a e-mail to koverall@i40.net as suggested in post # 1398 and the msg I received was this was not a good address, is the above e-mail address right?
Bought my Zaino a couple of months ago, hopefully this weekend.
P.S. I'm a skeptic on this Zaino frenzy, but, to apply some common sense to this whole issue, this many people who are typically "car nuts", can't be wrong. So I'm plunging in !!!!
As this product does not appear to be a wax or polymer has anyone used it for several years that can tell us the long term affect on paint if any??? Will the paint be in good shape 5-10 years down the road using this product or will it look great for 3 years and then the paint begins to chip away? How old is the company, I did not get that (the age of the co) from the web site?
I'd advise you to let the dealer do the initial prep job, since your new Maxima will be silver. That will get the car looking great and you can then avoid the claying.
I speak from experience -- my new car (last April) is brilliant silver, and I did NOT clay. But as soon as I could after delivery, I did the blue Dawn wash (to remove the dealer's wax and other remaining contaminants), and then I applied Z-1 and Z-2. The paint is super smooth and has been ever since. Last October I applied the 5th coat of Z-2, and about a month ago I did the Z-1 and Z-2 steps again. The fiinish is still gorgeous! However, for new dark colored cars, I might clay first, but claying a new lighter colored car, IMHO, is overkill and only for pure perfectionists..
My 2001 Impala LS is Galaxy Silver, purchased it in November and have not been able to wax or polish since I bought it (Michigan Winters) Hopefully this weekend. I am off to Target to see if I can find some towels, hopefully I can find Field Crest or Cannon. By the way, what does everybody dry their cars with, Genuine Chamois, Synthetic Chamois, or just plain bath towels?
I last used Zaino on my truck about 7 months ago. I am ready to use Z2, and Z6. Do I need to re-apply the Z1 polish lock or can I just start with Z6 and finish with Z2? P.. If you have never used the tire gloss, I highly recommend it.
Well, its been over a year since I last flayed my 2000 cutback, and I'm gearing up for it this weekend. I got a head start on my wheels which were stored for the winter. Whoa....I forgot the miff some clay, z1 and z5 can make!!!! Plan on another two coats of z5 to hide some fine scratches in the clear. About 70% of scratches eliminated with the 1st coat.
I have a couple of questions though, since its been a while.
1. I am going to clay again. Do I need to wash with Dawn first before the clay?
2. I remember reading posts where avid Zaino users like the effects of using only z5 rather than z2. What are the pros and cons of doing so?
If you are considering a Maxima, suggest you check out the Maxima topic (not sure which one off hand) but I recall a huge discussion over a problem being experienced by new owners of Maximas with manual transmission. Something about the car bocking because of glitch in the computer. When you find the right topic, you will find a very thorough explanation in the 1st or second post in the topic. Not sure if there is a fix for the prob yet.
A little off topic, but how are you liking your Solara? I have a Camry now and was really considering a Solara in the hopes for something with a little more .. "umph?" However, the practical side of me has taken over and I'm thinking I should get a 4-door since I am in those child bearing years and all... but I'm not nearly ready for the mini van so I'm pretty much settled on the Max. If anyone has any other suggestions for me.. like Lucky who has concerns about the Max. I'm thinking no more than $26,000 - any new/used suggestions?
armtdm: Zaino IS a polymer based product. Both Z5 and Z2 are enhanced polymer formulas which are optically clear and contain UV filters. They have GREAT endurance and will not hurt your clear coat. I've been using this product line for a little under 3 years with wonderful results. As polymer chains easily expand and shrink along with the sheet metal and paint layers, there should be no adverse effects over long periods of time. I don't know how old the company is, but give Sal a call or email and I'm sure he'd be happy to tell you.
mike2000xl, There is no need to reapply Z1 for at least a year or many coats of Z2. Go for the wash, Z6, and Z2. And yes, I was also very surprised with the quality of the Tire Gloss. I now use it on all my rubber engine hoses and black rubber trim. But is does pour a little fast - that was an initial surprise too.
luck11, No, don't continue using Dawn. That was only to initially remove any residual wax and/or hand glaze from the surface. Now that you've established a good "Z" base, all you have to do is keep it clean with a very moderate washing. The Z7 car wash liquid is a mild and effective product which is all you should need.
Have a Camry and owned a 95 and 98 Max, 98 a SE (which I stupidly traded for a 2000 Buick GSE) . Max a better car, more reliable, more power and less arrogant dealers!
Still no reply to my question on whether this product after 3-5 years of use will have any affect on the paint? Does it simply cause the paint to fall part and chip after 5 years of use. Anyone used it that long? Also, how long has the co been in business?
Applied my second coat of Z2 to a section last night, doing the TOY in sections as it is garaged looks great but as it has not been out in the daylight as yet I cannot compare sections or cars to truly make a definitive statement..
Zaino has been in business since 1989 I believe. Long term durability has been tested.E-mail Sal Zaino or call him with your specific questions. He will call you back. Try that with any other company.
Thanks...I really wasn't sure about using the Dawn again before re-claying. I'll just use z-7 as suggested.
Another couple of questions that I hope you can help with: After I re-clay the entire car and give it a z-7 wash, should I use z1 then z2/z5 or can I go straight to a z2/5? Also, should I be doing an application of z6 in either scenario (ie clay, z7 wash, z6, z1, z5 OR clay, z7 wash, z6, z5)? or is the z6 meant to be applied only inbetween coats of z2/z5?
PS... excuse some of the mispelled words in my last e-mail.....my fault for doing a spell check that obviously changed words I did not want it to.
Good questions and I'm not sure of all the answers. You can always give Sal a call or email.
On the first question: Use of Z1. It depends on how long it has been since your last application of Z1. The claying will not remove that binding layer, but over time and after numerous Z2/Z5 coats, it will be less effective. In my case, I'll re-clay around June which will be a year since I last did. And because I've used multiple coats of Z5/Z2 and because of the very harse winter (with lots of road salts), I WILL apply another coat of Z1 at that time.
After claying, I'll again wash with Z7 and dry the car. Then I'll apply Z1 directly without any Z6. Then I'll use Z5 directly on the Z1 layer. After residue removal, I'll wait about 24 hours and use a quick application of Z6 before I apply a layer of Z2. I'm not sure I've answered your all your questions and maybe some other "Z" users can also comment about when to use Z6.
I REALLY like the Solara. It is more comfortable than my Lexus was, just as quiet and smooth. I added some extra wood from exoticwooddash.com, and the interior is now almost as nice as the Lexus (except the door panels) The Diamond Pearl White paint is so gorgeous in the sun! It is about 2-1/2 years old, and I haven't had a single repair or problem other than Toyota offering to replace my strut towers to eliminate a small "clunk" going over bumps.
When I see it sparkling with 3-4 coats of Z-2 in a parking lot, I realize how good looking it is. The V-6 is awsome and powerful. As I passed 20K miles it seemed to get even faster. Honestly, I can't imagine really needing more power, as much fun as it may be. The back seat is HUGE with more legroom than the Lexus ES and much larger than the Accord or Acura coupes. It is really comfortable - once you get in - and there's the only problem for me.
If it had a couple of those little 1/2 doors like Saturn has - it would be perfect. I must be honest and say that I really miss having 4 doors. Every time I am loading a big briefcase or samples or the dog or passengers I wish it had 2 more doors. I also miss the incredible service from Lexus - Toyota really needs to take some lessons from their brothers- but the service is a LOT better than I got at Mazda.
I don't think you can find a better car for the money. If it suits you, don't hesitate.
Ok, I'm still not convinced after reading all the posts. I'm trying to decide if I should spend the extra money for this. Now, I have a brand new car. I just got it (200 mi on the clock) but it was built in 8/00 so it's been sitting around a while. The paint feels a little rough - I think its needs a clay and a good wax.
If you say I need to apply Zaino once then wait 24hrs to do another coat, what happens if dirt get on it? I do not have a garage or car cover. If i wash & wax my car today, by tommorrow it WILL have a light film of dust and especially pollen this time of year. If I start waxing it the 2nd time I'm just going to smear all the dirt around!
So if I have to completely re-wash it, that's an awful lot of work! Does this Z2 (or whatever the number is of the clearcoat one) work with only one coat?
Does the Zaino clay bar come with some kind of liquid spray? Last year i bought another clay bar kit in a store and it came with a spray bottle of some solution and said to speay this on the car as a lubricant for the clay then use the clay.
What kind of liquid do you use to lubricate the clay? Plain Water?
The 24 hour wait period is to allow the Z2 to complete dry and cure. It actually does not matter if a little dust settles on the car at the time. It (the dust) will come off as you remove the residue. Well actually and all things being relative, you wouldn't want to leave the car in a full dust storm or cover it in road salts during this period. But under mild normal conditions, it will be fine.
The Zaino brand of clay does not come with a separate lubricant. Simply mix a few (say 3) cap fulls of Zaino Z7 Car Wash and about a half gallon of water and put into any old spray bottle. It doesn't have to be a very fine spray. I use an old Windex bottle. This make about the best lubricant spray for claying 'on the market'.
Just spray the panel to be clayed (spray completely), and rub the clay over it. When done, rinse the panel. And when you are done claying, give the car a quick but complete washing with the normal concentration of Z7 and water. That will remove any clay residue.
No, the Zaino bar is supposed to use their car wash liquid (diluted) as the lubricant. Personally, I tried that, but admittedly not with a Zaino bar, so I could avoid the Dawn wash afterward (if you have any other "waxes" on you are supposed to wash them off with Dawn) but I found it to be less than satisfactory. The bar was not lubricated enough and stuck much more. I find that the liquid spray wax that comes with Mothers and Mequiars bars made it easier for me. maybe it was the composition of the clay, but I am doing my wifes car right now after she had her bumper repainted and they threw in the rest of the car (at least the overspray part). I found Mothers at Discount Auto Parts for $14.99 so I grabbed it. I am sure that Zaino's is a fine clay bar, but I would find it hard to believe that there is any substantial difference in these things.
While working to fix the some problems the database was corrupted. Unfortunately we were only able to recover data up to this morning - meaning that all posts made to Town Hall since early today are missing.
Several people are pulling an all-nighter; we'll find out in the morning whether they were successful in recovering the lost messages. Apologies. Steve Host Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
While working to fix the some problems the database was corrupted. Unfortunately we were only able to recover data up to this morning - meaning that all posts made to Town Hall earlier today are missing.
Several people are pulling an all-nighter; we'll find out in the morning whether they were successful in recovering the lost messages. Apologies. Steve Host Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
I don't recommend Z-6ing the car between washes. There is ALWAYS some dust on the car, and the dust/dirt can be very abrasive. Even if you don't see anything at first, It will be a cumulative effect, gradually dulling and scratching the paint.
Even if my car has been garaged the whole time, I will only wipe it with the California Duster (Only the ends touch, no pressure). If there is visible dirt, nothing at all until washing. Dust is just fine dirt!
I don't recommend Z-6ing the car between washes. There is ALWAYS some dust on the car, and the dust/dirt can be very abrasive. Even if you don't see anything at first, It will be a cumulative effect, gradually dulling and scratching the paint.
Even if my can has been garaged the whole time, I will only wipe it with the California Duster (Only the ends touch, no pressure). If there is visible dirt, nothing at all until washing. Dust is just fine dirt!
Clear and 70 degrees here today. It's been one looong winter - but today the car gets a thorough hand washing and at least a Z5 treatment. It's supposed to rain tomorrow - if it doesn't, then it'll get a Z2 coat then. The Z held up surprisingly well for all the snow/salt/road gunk that got thrown up all winter long. Now to get it gleaming for the Spring.
If your car has been garaged and there is no visible dirt, what the heck are you wiping off with the California Duster? This sounds more like a ritual than cleaning your car. No wonder some people think we are a cult.
Thanks once again...you answered my questions to a "T". I just finished claying my car....smooth as a baby's bottom !!
Going to wash it again now, then apply Z1, then Z5 directly on top of z1. I will apply z6 only before my second and subsequent applications of z2 or z5.
Comments
The whole weekend was a wash out up in Otis,Ma. They still have 3 feet of snow/ice, and it was about 32 degrees. And then it started to rain. At least you had a chance, but the CL-S looks great.
dpettyjo: Welcome aboard, how does it look.
bidandsell: Not, Zaino will NOT be affected by your common windshield washing liquid. I even apply Z6 to my windshield.
I have two black vehicles, a motorcycle and an SUV. The SUV is new so it is marginally more shiny, but the motorcycle is like a totally different vehicle, very dark and glossy.
Glad that you finally got good weather so you could protect the finish. Christine is going to miss your attention (not that she was very appreciative!).
I forgot the digital camera this weekend. I have it now. SUN is finally out! Have to wash her again because it rained yesterday and was misty earlier today. I will take some pics this afternoon and post them at YAHOO since photopoint is switching to a pay site. I might just pay it though because I have too many pics there to move. You should see that red with only two coats of Z-2/Z-6.
Christine might miss me, but I DON'T miss her! Getting in the 20's for gas mileage so far. Last night's tank got 24 MPG!! Only got that a few times with the 300M! Already have over 1,400 miles since 3/28! Can't drive her enough. ;-))
fastdriver
PS Leaving for FL on Friday. Wish I was driving the CL-S.
1. Is it more for protecting or making your car look really nice, or both? My first interest would be to protect so if there's something better than Zaino...
2. If the car is brand new, when should I start? Do I need to do the clay thing even with a new car? (seems like a lot of work!)
3. How often, do I have to do this (minimally)? And, do I just keep adding more coats - or do I have to take the other coats off and start all over again?
4. Is it safe to apply "the stuff" everywhere but windows? What should I avoid?
4. How's Zaino's leather stuff? It will be my first time with leather too! Is there a better product for leather out there? And again, how often do I have to do a leather treatment?
5. When I order the stuff - how long does one bottle of it last?
6. Do I need to have a big brawny man to help me with this or is it something that I can do fairly easily on my own?
Thanks a lot!
Both - it shines and protects
2. If the car is brand new, when should I start? Do I need to do the clay thing even with a new car? (seems like a lot of work!)
Put it on as soon as you can. Claying? I didn't do it on my new car and it still turned out nice. IMHO, if you aren't a "stickler", you won't need to clay
3. How often, do I have to do this (minimally)? And, do I just keep adding more coats - or do I have to take the other coats off and start all over again?
It can last about 6 months. So if you really aren't into detailing, twice a year should keep it looking good and protected
4. Is it safe to apply "the stuff" everywhere but windows? What should I avoid?
Avoid textured plastic. Everything else is fair game.
4. How's Zaino's leather stuff? It will be my first time with leather too! Is there a better product for leather out there? And again, how often do I have to do a leather treatment?
I really like the leather treatment. Z9 cleans most anything off, and Z10 really keeps it smelling "new". It really doesn't take any time to do the leather treatment either
5. When I order the stuff - how long does one bottle of it last?
Z1 should last a REALLY long time. One bottle of Z2 managed to cover a 300M 5 times and a Taraus once. A little goes a VERY long way
6. Do I need to have a big brawny man to help me with this or is it something that I can do fairly easily on my own?
If I were single, I'd tell you that you needed a man to do this for you ;>) Actually, you'll be very suprised at how easy it goes on. Really, just wipe it on, let it dry, and wipe it off.
Another free photo site...at least for now.
PICS POSTED!!! Just in time too! You should see how pitch BLACK it is out right now. Fast moving thunderstorm and rain coming through any minute. These pics have 3 coats of Z-2/Z-6 including the clay treatment. Got the car on 3/28/01/
1. Click on fastdriver's new car on the left.
2. Click on pic 1
3. Click on View Slideshow
4. SLOW it down to take a GOOD look! LOL...
You can even make the pics bigger!
http://y42.photos.yahoo.com/
dani329-
It all SOUNDS complicated, but it's not! Once all the initial steps are taken, it's a BREEZE to keep that wet look shine. I like the description- 12 step program. There are some in the "wax" topic who think we ALL need a 12 step program for our addiction to Zaino! As you can see, from pjyoung's response, we are all here to help! Seeing is believing! Take a look at my pics above.
joebob6-
Thanks for the link. So far the Yahoo seems okay. I already have a Yahoo e-mail address that I rarely use, so adding the pics was nothing.
Enjoy.
fastdriver
I did buy the fluffier ones, but I did not buy the big size ones because they are too hard to handle. They are 100% cotton, Made in the USA- NOT Martha Stewart!! LOL....
To all- The link above to my pics is not correct. It should be-
http://photos.yahoo.com/fastdriver2_99
fastdriver
DO the clay, even on a new car. There are lots of reasons (see them at www.erazer.com) but the best reason is that it will make the car SOOOOO smooth, that the application of the Z products will be even easier. The applicator will just glide over the car. It only takes me about 15-20 minutes to cover my Solara, and 10 minutes or so to polish it off after it is dry.
Also- If you REALLY want your new car to look its best, instruct the dealer NOT to detail the car when it comes in, and wash and polish it yourself the first time. It is these dealer cleaning and waxing jobs that cause a lot of the swirl marks on new cars.
Gotta love that car and the Zaino you applied. Great pics with a few exceptions: That very first pic looks like the CL-S has no tires. The angle is just a bit funny. Its hard to photograph a solid color car and colors like red and darker ones too have a hard time showing deep shines. I noticed that the ones on Sal's site use reflections of objects to show off the shine. Of course, the pictures in that second line really show the shine well. Thanks!
dani329,
Like the others here, I think you'll find Zaino very easy to apply. I agree with automophile that claying your new car is a good idea and will insure a longer lasting paint surface/ clear coat.
tiger01,
Ah towels. Again, you want 100% white cotton made in USA only. Fancy brands only add cost. Try Fieldcrest or Cannon.
Join the crowd. I had a garage full of waxes/polishes too, UNTIL I found Zaino! Just wait and you'll see what we're all talking about.
fastdriver
I last applied a layer of Z2 around Thanksgiving of last year and its still beading water. I would have done a lot more, but as fastdriver can tell you, conditions here in the North East have not been kind to anyone this year. I'm still amazed at the endurance of Z2.
I'm taking delivery of a Navy Blue 2001 Impala LS in May. I'm doing the exterior "dealer prep" to avoid their swirls, then I'm Zainoing (including clay) right away. I've even arranged for some flexible days off so that I can do it virtually on day one!
Come on back to the Impala discussion group and tell us how you're doing!
Brad
Bought my Zaino a couple of months ago, hopefully this weekend.
P.S. I'm a skeptic on this Zaino frenzy, but, to apply some common sense to this whole issue, this many people who are typically "car nuts", can't be wrong. So I'm plunging in !!!!
I speak from experience -- my new car (last April) is brilliant silver, and I did NOT clay. But as soon as I could after delivery, I did the blue Dawn wash (to remove the dealer's wax and other remaining contaminants), and then I applied Z-1 and Z-2. The paint is super smooth and has been ever since. Last October I applied the 5th coat of Z-2, and about a month ago I did the Z-1 and Z-2 steps again. The fiinish is still gorgeous! However, for new dark colored cars, I might clay first, but claying a new lighter colored car, IMHO, is overkill and only for pure perfectionists..
My 2001 Impala LS is Galaxy Silver, purchased it in November and have not been able to wax or polish since I bought it (Michigan Winters) Hopefully this weekend. I am off to Target to see if I can find some towels, hopefully I can find Field Crest or Cannon. By the way, what does everybody dry their cars with, Genuine Chamois, Synthetic Chamois, or just plain bath towels?
I have a couple of questions though, since its been a while.
1. I am going to clay again. Do I need to wash with Dawn first before the clay?
2. I remember reading posts where avid Zaino users like the effects of using only z5 rather than z2. What are the pros and cons of doing so?
If you are considering a Maxima, suggest you check out the Maxima topic (not sure which one off hand) but I recall a huge discussion over a problem being experienced by new owners of Maximas with manual transmission. Something about the car bocking because of glitch in the computer. When you find the right topic, you will find a very thorough explanation in the 1st or second post in the topic. Not sure if there is a fix for the prob yet.
Zaino IS a polymer based product. Both Z5 and Z2 are enhanced polymer formulas which are optically clear and contain UV filters. They have GREAT endurance and will not hurt your clear coat. I've been using this product line for a little under 3 years with wonderful results. As polymer chains easily expand and shrink along with the sheet metal and paint layers, there should be no adverse effects over long periods of time. I don't know how old the company is, but give Sal a call or email and I'm sure he'd be happy to tell you.
mike2000xl,
There is no need to reapply Z1 for at least a year or many coats of Z2. Go for the wash, Z6, and Z2. And yes, I was also very surprised with the quality of the Tire Gloss. I now use it on all my rubber engine hoses and black rubber trim. But is does pour a little fast - that was an initial surprise too.
luck11,
No, don't continue using Dawn. That was only to initially remove any residual wax and/or hand glaze from the surface. Now that you've established a good "Z" base, all you have to do is keep it clean with a very moderate washing. The Z7 car wash liquid is a mild and effective product which is all you should need.
Applied my second coat of Z2 to a section last night, doing the TOY in sections as it is garaged looks great but as it has not been out in the daylight as yet I cannot compare sections or cars to truly make a definitive statement..
Another couple of questions that I hope you can help with: After I re-clay the entire car and give it a z-7 wash, should I use z1 then z2/z5 or can I go straight to a z2/5? Also, should I be doing an application of z6 in either scenario (ie clay, z7 wash, z6, z1, z5 OR clay, z7 wash, z6, z5)? or is the z6 meant to be applied only inbetween coats of z2/z5?
PS... excuse some of the mispelled words in my last e-mail.....my fault for doing a spell check that obviously changed words I did not want it to.
Thanks again.
Luck11.
On the first question: Use of Z1. It depends on how long it has been since your last application of Z1. The claying will not remove that binding layer, but over time and after numerous Z2/Z5 coats, it will be less effective. In my case, I'll re-clay around June which will be a year since I last did. And because I've used multiple coats of Z5/Z2 and because of the very harse winter (with lots of road salts), I WILL apply another coat of Z1 at that time.
After claying, I'll again wash with Z7 and dry the car. Then I'll apply Z1 directly without any Z6. Then I'll use Z5 directly on the Z1 layer. After residue removal, I'll wait about 24 hours and use a quick application of Z6 before I apply a layer of Z2. I'm not sure I've answered your all your questions and maybe some other "Z" users can also comment about when to use Z6.
When I see it sparkling with 3-4 coats of Z-2 in a parking lot, I realize how good looking it is. The V-6 is awsome and powerful. As I passed 20K miles it seemed to get even faster. Honestly, I can't imagine really needing more power, as much fun as it may be. The back seat is HUGE with more legroom than the Lexus ES and much larger than the Accord or Acura coupes. It is really comfortable - once you get in - and there's the only problem for me.
If it had a couple of those little 1/2 doors like Saturn has - it would be perfect. I must be honest and say that I really miss having 4 doors. Every time I am loading a big briefcase or samples or the dog or passengers I wish it had 2 more doors. I also miss the incredible service from Lexus - Toyota really needs to take some lessons from their brothers- but the service is a LOT better than I got at Mazda.
I don't think you can find a better car for the money. If it suits you, don't hesitate.
If you say I need to apply Zaino once then wait 24hrs to do another coat, what happens if dirt get on it? I do not have a garage or car cover. If i wash & wax my car today, by tommorrow it WILL have a light film of dust and especially pollen this time of year. If I start waxing it the 2nd time I'm just going to smear all the dirt around!
So if I have to completely re-wash it, that's an awful lot of work! Does this Z2 (or whatever the number is of the clearcoat one) work with only one coat?
What kind of liquid do you use to lubricate the clay? Plain Water?
The Zaino brand of clay does not come with a separate lubricant. Simply mix a few (say 3) cap fulls of Zaino Z7 Car Wash and about a half gallon of water and put into any old spray bottle. It doesn't have to be a very fine spray.
I use an old Windex bottle. This make about the best lubricant spray for claying 'on the market'.
Just spray the panel to be clayed (spray completely), and rub the clay over it. When done, rinse the panel. And when you are done claying, give the car a quick but complete washing with the normal concentration of Z7 and water. That will remove any clay residue.
Then, a week or 2 later, wash and Z2 it again.
The 24 hours is a minimum, not a maximum!
Just do it and enjoy. Also, do the clay - you will be really glad that you did, and once you start with regular Z, you may not need to do it again.
Several people are pulling an all-nighter; we'll find out in the morning whether they were successful in recovering the lost messages. Apologies.
Steve
Host
Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Several people are pulling an all-nighter; we'll find out in the morning whether they were successful in recovering the lost messages. Apologies.
Steve
Host
Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Even if my car has been garaged the whole time, I will only wipe it with the California Duster (Only the ends touch, no pressure). If there is visible dirt, nothing at all until washing. Dust is just fine dirt!
Even if my can has been garaged the whole time, I will only wipe it with the California Duster (Only the ends touch, no pressure). If there is visible dirt, nothing at all until washing. Dust is just fine dirt!
Going to wash it again now, then apply Z1, then Z5 directly on top of z1. I will apply z6 only before my second and subsequent applications of z2 or z5.
I can't wait to see the shine!!!
Thanks again...you have been a great help.
Luck11