I finished taking off the 1st coat of Z2, looks great, it dried in about 14 hours and came off very nicely. Car looked very good and felt even better. Then this morning it rained at about 8am for 1 hour srtight, very hard. Didn't drive the car just let it sit and it still looks clean but for the odd water spot on the roof. Water beads nicely with it. Looking forward to doing another coat of Z2 tomorrow. Question about Z6, I am very reluctant to use it on a my car when there is visable dirt on it. I know it not supposed to scratch but I am not too keen on the idea. Do you guys use it on a car that not clean (ie right after or before a coat of Z1/Z5?) Fill me in...Thanks for all the help so far...
DO NOT use Z-6 if the car is dirty! It WILL scratch if there is dirt/pollen present. If the car is just dusty, I use the California Car Duster first and then I use the Z-6.
I couldn't find the post, but whoever suggested taking the nozzle off the hose to rinse the car was right on! Thank you for the tip. As a prelude to fifth coat of Z, washed the car, took nozzle off, and rinsed. There was hardly any water left on my car and cut my drying time (and towel use) immensely.
Another alternative to taking the nozzle off is to get a 7-in-1 nozzle from Home Depot. It has 7 different "spray" patterns, including a soak mode, which just simulates having no spray and allows the water to slowly flow out without introducing air/spray into the water stream. Saves one the hassle of constantly having to remove the nozzle and possibly compromising the seal (I hate it when hose "junctions" start to leak).
Wife loves it because the nozzle has a "mist" mode which gently waters flower beds. I switch to "center shower" or "jet" mode to remove loose dirt before washing the car, then to "soak" for final rinse.
Best $7 investment you'll ever make. Simply go to www.homedepot.com and search on SKU# 262775 to see what it looks like. Of course, it's always more fun to just visit you local HD and wander the aisles getting "ideas".
Another (last?) suggestion is a plastic "fan" spray nozzle that lets the water come out in a wide, low-pressure fan. This is probably the similar to what tonychrys is suggesting above.
Use to wash and rinse the car. When rinsing, you can almost wet the entire hood or roof at once, then draw the water to the side slowly - the surface tension will pull off 90% of the water. You will never need more than one towel!
Also - use the Z6 right after Z2 or 3 - it will add a further measure of shine to your labors! I personally would never rub anything on my car without washing it first.
I'm wanting to take the Zaino plunge soon, but I've been reading about a new product from them, so I emailed Sal. I can't wait!!! Here's his response:
"The new Zaino product will be an accelerative additive that can be mixed with Z-2, Z-3 or Z-5....
Below are just a few of the improvements....
1. When mixed as per directions, you will not need to apply Z-1... 2. It will reduce the drying time, thus making the polish more user friendly in damp environments... 3. It will increase the gloss factor and extend the durability level.. 4. It will have an instant cure time, so you can immediately apply multiple coats.. No more waiting between coats... 5. And more........
So stay tuned and please be patient for the release date..."
Well, if it's something that I can actually add to my recent "investment" in Zaino products (rather than replace them), then I'll be happier than a pig in slop.
I'm sorry, but this whole drying time is extremely deceptive and frustrating. The Zaino instructions themselves say: "When it is not humid Z-2 will take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes to dry. Depending on how heavy you applied it. I have applied Z-2 in the Arizona sun and it dried in approx. 3 to 5 minutes. I have also applied it in 38 degree temperature and it took about 2 to 3 hours to dry."
Well, I applied in 70+ degree, below 50% humidity, it did not dry in 2 or 3 hours. Totally misleading. And leaving a car outside, overnight, with stuff settling on it is not a great idea when you have to wipe it down the next day.
If this "instant curer" works, praise the Zaino gods.
Are you still complaining! Quit screwing around and get the 3M I told you and that billy bob character about last week. Go with a company that innovates, not immitates.
Yep! That's what I posted in #1912 on June 5th. Sal isn't sure exactly when he's going to release it yet. I can't wait. From my experience with Zaino products since the summer of 1998, I wouldn't hesitate for a second to get this new product.
tonychrys-
The new product is something that you can use with your existing Zaino products. I assume that you have been polishing/waxing cars for some time. Is Zaino the ONLY product you ever had a problem removing because of humidity? Personally, I have NEVER had to wait hours for Zaino to dry. I have no clue why. Maybe I use just the right amount. Maybe I happen to pick the "ideal" day temperature wise and humidity wise. Maybe we have the "perfect" climate here in CT. I don't know what the reason is. In most cases, the Z is dry by the time I finish applying it. Did you prep the car the first time you ever applied the Z following Sal's directions and the help that was given here? If I had to wait overnight or days for the Z to dry, I would NOT be using it. Something just isn't right here. Wish I could be of more help. If you want to sell your Zaino supply, I would be happy to buy it from you. Where do you live anyway- AZ or NY? Let me know. Thanks.
First, I'm not giving up on Z yet. I've taken care of my own cars (wish I could have afforded to have someone else to do it!) for the past 20+ years, so yes, I've used different waxes, etc.
I'm pretty precise when it comes to doing any "job" (why else do it yourself?), followed the Zaino "instructions" to a tee. I cleaned and clayed meticulously, as someone else pointed out, prep work is everything.
But this is my point I'm hoping to get across: I'm willing to admit I did something wrong (what it is I don't know until I experiment further), but something is wrong with a product's instructions/guidance when more than one person is running into the same difficulties. I live in NY, have the same weather conditions as you. I think I know a warm, dry day when I see/feel one.
The fact that Zaino is even introducing an instant curer is a red flag that something definitely needed improvement. Again, notice that I haven't condemn the end result of the product, one has to be fair and let time/the elements prove that.
Nope, I'm stubborn and willing to learn from my mistakes, I ain't giving up yet. I still have another car to Z, though I'll be using a different combination of Z-product (Z1/Z2) since this car has a very definite clear coat as opposed to my black Lexus (Z1/Z3).
Living in the Northeast, I want Z to work. I look forward to being able to protect my cars in October and then not have to worry about them until warmer weather.
Hopefully I'll get a Z session in tomorrow since it's suppose to be warm and dry, as opposed to the Noah's Ark episode we had today.
I wish he would be a little more specific on when. I need to polish my car but don't want to buy the Z1 if I'm not going to need it with the new stuff. It would be nice to know a ballpark date.
1. How dry is dry enough? I realize Zaino web site says its dry when you test an area and it comes off clean but how much of a dry haze do you all see?
2. How easy is it for you to remove Z2 (or Z5 for that matter) after it has dried? Does the Z come off without any pressure at all? Should it come off like I am dusting a table?
3. It was sunny where I live this weekend so of course I Z'd my cars. I was running on auto-pilot and since I am somewhat new to Zaino I was still in polish and wax mode. After I applied Z5, I removed it. Then I applied Z2 immediately afterward without letting it cure for 24 hours. Is this an issue? I figure since Z2 and Z5 are interchangable that it isn't.
4. How much Z6 do you all use? I use about 1/2 spray of the trigger for an entire section (i.e. one door, or one quarterpanel) I am using too much?
I was driving around and picked up some tar from road construction whick splattered on my zainoed finish(so far only z1, z5, and z2). From my car cleaning experience, the only way I know to remove tar is to use WD-40 to breakdown the Tar. I was wondering what this does to my zaino on my vehicle? Should I re-apply, Z-1, Z-2 after washing, removing the tar and washing with Z7 again?? I really hate tar!
I know I'm not the only zaino who has picked up a little tar, you comment are appreciated.
I went for my second coat of z-5 this weekend after finally getting the first one off. I didn't have 2+ days to let it dry this time so I decided to put it on super-dooper-ultra thin. I was in the sun, and I could hardly see it go on. It is pretty frustrating. It was 85 degrees out with 40% RH. Can't get much better than that around here in KS. The few areas that did end up hazing still took about 4 hours in the sun to dry. ridiculous.. The directions on this stuff are crap. At the rate I am using z-5 I bet I could do my car 15+ more times, and I am still using too much? Like I said, the website says a bottle will do a midsize car 8-10 times. Well I guess it will if you allow 3 day drying time each time.
On a plus note, water beads on this stuff like I've never seen before, and it appears to have made my car a little darker? (red car). Has anyone else noticed this?
On another negative note, I don't appear to be losing any of the swirl marks I had. That may be my own fault since I didn't cut off the edges of my Fieldcrest Royal Velvet towels. Meaning, I may just be putting more in.. hard to tell. I just couldn't bring myself to cut these beautiful soft fluffy bath towels, but I think I will now. Do you all also cut off that decorative stripe? I think my clearcoat scratches if you look at it.
Since my car is white, I never see it "haze", but the longest I have ever waited to take it off was 3 hours (in January @ 32 degrees). Otherwise, I take it off after about an hour. I don't know how much the "haze" shows up on a dark car. I do know that it does not "haze" like other waxes on a white car. I wasn't able to do my wife's car this weekend, but I did a test spot and I noticed that it didn't haze noticably on her dark blue car. FWIW - I wiped down that spot after an hour and it didn't smear.
Zaino additive - last i heard from a few distributors who actually have saples they are testing etc - is mid-late summer release.
Drying time - never been an issue. Ontario isnt any different than any northeast state - and i havent waited more than 1/2 hour to start wiping off.
Pressure - its not like dusting - slightly more pressure than that is required - but not much.
Edges - cut them off ! Band - do that too (i did)
Z6 - before applying Z2/5 - if car is clean, seems like extra work for little benefit. Definetly after the 5/2 comes off.
Always dust or clean before wiping anything onto car - including Z6.
Open flow on hose - - if you havent tried it - do! It works well.
Not waiting 24 hours inbetween coats - likely a subjective thing since drying times seems to be also. I have done it, (short wait times) but how can you really tell it isnt working ? I cant. It must be adding a layer, even if not as thick? as waiting and having it entirely bond.
I've Z'd my car twice so far this season. The first time it took over 2 hours to dry, the second about 1 hour 15 minutes. I live in NYC and both days were nice and sunny, with relatively low humidity. I agree that it is frustrating for it to take so long to dry; however I also feel that it is worth it. When the job is done, the car looks great, which is the reason I bought Zaino.
There's something wrong there. Given the temp and humidity levels, your application of Z5 should have dried very fast. I'm not sure what the problem is, and I'd recommend calling Sal again before doing anything else. Let us know the outcome. I applied some Z5 this weekend up in the Berkshires where is was about 86 and very humid. My application of Z5 dried in about 20 minutes.
IMHO, I don't think it is necessary to go cutting up you towels. Simply fold them so that those seems are not exposed to the finish. That should be enough to stop "swirl" production.
cdnindc: WD40 should not hurt your Z. After using, just give the car another wasing and apply another Z6 and Z2.
emsiason: Depending upon humidity levels, you should see a slight haze. If the humidity level is high, however, it may be a little hard to see the white of the haze. Touch it to see if it is dry. When wiping off, you should only use the slightest amount of pressure on the towels.
And now for my question: Are ther any good hints about removing tree sap on a newly Z'd car? I just put a new coat of Z6 on the car, and would hate to start claying all over agains.
Hmm, we both have 2001 Accords, both use Royal Velvet Towels and we both have smearing. I was thinking that maybe my smearing problems were caused by my towels. I use "ALL" detergent and put the towels in the dryer on high without any type of fabric softener. Maybe I need a stronger detergent. I tried an extra rinse cycle this last time, maybe that will help.
Did you wash the applicator pads? Mine freyed after washing and they might cause your swirls. I now wash mine by hand or just not wash them at all.
As far as your swirls go, I don't think Z is the end all solution to swirls. It will help a little but not too much. When you apply and remove Z are you doing it in a circular motion? (I dont know how much help I can be if you already talked to Sal.)
I only talked to Sal once, he just said I put too much on and to use a damp towel etc etc like the tips say. I am putting it on with the recommended up and down and front to back motions. I do it with about 4 inch up and down quick strokes, not a whole lot of pressure. Sound right? I haven't washed any of my applicators yet, I bought 3 initially so I haven't had to yet.
Emaison - I wonder if it is a honda related problem we are having. I can't figure out why it would matter, but the clearcoat on this car sure seems awfully soft and easy to scratch. Whether it is worse than other cars, I don't know. What color is yours?
You should hand wash your applicator pad as soon as you are finished applying the Zaino. I use whatever dishwashing liquid is in the kitchen and hot water and rinse/squeeze the pad thoroughly.
If the smear problem was Honda related, I'd be experiencing it too on my Acura CL. I have the bright red and it's extremely difficult for me to see where I have applied it too. It does not haze like regular wax does. It can barely be seen.
My Accord is Dark Green. The places I am noticing the smearing the most are: hood, roof and top of trunk. Maybe I applied too much Z1/Z5 on my initial application, I don't know.
On my white Accord I am not seeing any smearing but that may be because it is more difficult to notice on the white paint.
fastdriver- I notice a haze on my dark green car after the application. I really don't apply that much at all but maybe its still too much?
Mine hazes, but it is hard to see. There have been times on my previous car that I forgot to wipe off a whole section because I didn't notice it! ;-)) That Zaino shine was coming right through that "haze"!
Have you seen pics of the green Accord that automophile has done? No smears on that and he's in smoggy LA! If you go to photopoint.com and put in his e-mail address, you can see the pics. I don't have his address right this minute.
Also- I DOES seem that the Accord paint scratches easily, but sometimes I think it is just a type of smearing, and dissappears the next time I wash or Z6 it. ???
"If you ever leave it overnight to dry certainly make sure it is garaged!"
You haven't met my wife, have you? You know, the woman that says, "yes, I'm going to have a garage sale next week to get all that stuff out of there so that you can pull in the car."
Hey guess what? Next week has come and gone several times 8-P
Seriously, no I would never let it sit overnight with any stuff on it. As a matter of fact, I'm about to remove my second coat of Z3. And you know today was extremely hot and dry on LI!
Nice pictures, thanks for sharing. Your Accord looks to be in great shape. My white one is a 1995 4dr. A couple more applications of Z and I hope it looks as good as yours.
One thing Sal should warn us about is the sunburn. This morning I noticed my face was burnt from Zing my white car!
"One thing Sal should warn us about is the sunburn. This morning I noticed my face was burnt from Zing my white car!" LOL.......... it's that Z reflection! ;-)
I just applied z-1 and z-2 on silver Toyota sienna z-2 came off easy and van looked shiny. though the texture does not feel as smooth as before. with the exception of the door handles, it feels like there is some sand on it. it was not like this before I used the Z. I did not use dawn dish washing soap nor did I use clay assuming that the vehicle is only 2 weeks old. need suggestions before I continue on using z-2.
Follow fastdriver's advice. In fact, I think you also now have to remove any Zaino you have applied before claying. That first coat of Z is overlaying existing wax, and thus, is NOT binding with your clear coat. The first good storm to come along will simply rip off the Z layer along with the underlying wax. I think you should call Sal on this one.
automophile: I still love your pictures. My car is also an Emerald Green Accord and with three new coats of Z5 on it, it looks as good as yours. But you also have great talent as a photographer. Those reflection pics are amazing.
emaison and killakella: Have you tried any of the recommendations over the last weekend?
What suggestions are you talking about? Everything I have done was posted in #2069. I will probably do another z-5 this weekend. Hopefully they will get increasingly easier. It did rain hard this morning and water beads on this stuff like nothing ive ever seen. It's pretty cool. I think it will be real easy to tell when the protection has come off.
Haven't stopped by for a while. Looks like the same debates still rage (Zaino vs. the rest).
After being a loyal (and extremely happy Zaino user) for the past few years, I've made converts of several people who swore by thier particular "non-Zaino" brands until I showed them the finish on my 300M and Grand Prix GTP.
In general, that first application is the one that causes the most questions. Experience as you apply more coats is really the best teacher.
Good to see pblevine, fastdriver, daverose and some of the other "zaino old-timers" still posting and giving good advice.
Just wanted to drop an opinion about the Z16. I used to be an avid Meguiars Endurance Tire advocate. After ordering my annual spring Zaino, I gave Z16 a try. No surprize. I tossed the Meguiars Endurance and am now a Z16 zealot, too. It goes on much easier (no "gloppiness" like the Meguiars) and gives a "cleaner look/gloss" to my tires. It lasts longer, too. I plan on using it on my underhood hoses this weekend, too.
Good to hear from you. I too have been using Z16 on all my car's rubber parts. Its great for those engine hoses, door seals, and oh yes, the tires too. 'Been using Z6, however, on my windshield wiper blades.
STILL here! At least the new people here aren't calling us "shills" for Sal like in the old days! LOL.... If I got paid for every new person who used Zaino because they saw my pics, I could have retired a LONG time ago!
Hi. Did i read your last post #2091 correctly? You put Z16 on your wiper blades? (the rubber blades) If so, will that make them wipe better and last longer? Thanks.
I think you saw pblevine's post...he uses Z6 on his wiper blades (as do I), not Z16.
Z16 is used as a tire dressing. I'm planning on using it on my "underhood" hoses and "black trim" areas, too. However, it is not recommended for interior vinyl parts or seats. I put it on my tires a couple of weeks ago. It's holding up well (at least as well as Meguiars Endurance). I'll put a 2nd coat on the tires this weekend.
Z6 is the gloss enhancer. Some of us more adverterous types have found other uses for it. I used to use it on my windows. It gives a "rain-x" effect. I quit doing that as Sal really doesn't recommend it for that purpose. Don't really know why, though. It worked well for me. Putting Z6 on the wiper blades really smoothes the wiper blade operation. It is not a substitute for a good window cleaning. Wiper blades should be cleaned as well. I just do a quick wiper blade Z7 wash when I'm detailing my car to get all the "gunk" off them every time I wash my car.
I did as you have suggested, dawn, clay and dawn. I can see how much dirt the clay has absorbed. applied z1 and z2 again. although I was no longer amazed on how much shine the van can look, I was amazed on how smooth it is, just like glass! it was so smooth that I ran my palm all over the van, and I can easily tell that I have missed claying some area. it was worth doing it all over again, and the right way. thanks! - when can I clay the van again?
Glad it worked out. Don't clay again until you feel that it's rough again. The wet look shine will come with more coats of Z2/Z5 and Z6. You'll see. Trust me. We haven't steered you wrong yet.
Yep, claying creates that smoooooth feeling by pulling out all those tiny "bumps". I too clayed this last weekend and after applying Z5, my car looked and "felt" like glass. That is until I parked under a tree while visiting my Dad (it was Fathers Day). Damn tree sap. At least now I can eliminate it with a simple spray of water (+ a few drops of Z7 Car Wash).
LOL... I hear you. I was parked in my friend's driveway- NOT even UNDER a tree- and I had sap on the car! I told her that it just flies in the air! It came right off when I washed the car. Thanks Zaino.
Have you heard about the new Zaino coming out "soon"? Don't need Z1. Dries almost instantly. AND you can do multiple coats in the SAME day! Oh baby! This new CL-S will be shining like my polyurethane hardwood floors!! LOL.... Ah.... what a fanatic! ;-))
This may not be news to folks that regularly clay their car. When I bought my first clay bar two years ago, it came with a mitt-shaped "baggie". The instructions said to lightly drag the baggie over the paint, as it for some reason makes the bumps and imperfections more noticable than running just your fingers over the paint. You may think your paint is smooth, but this trick will really tell you whether or not you need to clay. Whenever I clay, I occaissionally put a plastic baggie on my hand and test the areas to make sure I got everything out. Sounds silly, be careful when doing it, but it really works.
I now carry a spray bottle (an old Z6 empty) with water + a little Z7. And it works on the d... sap! And I'll second that thank you!
I think Sal is calling the new curing additive "ZFX". 'Can't wait to get my hands on it. Mulitiple coats in a single day. Think of it! Your CL-S will look a lot better than a hardwood floor.
Koury: I usually run a finger along the finish after a quick dusting. I'm still amazed by how well claying will improve the smoothness.
Became a Zainian a couple of months ago! Love it and as with others have turned others into Zainians. Question not answered at Sal's web site, after 3 coats of Z2 that were put on a couple of months ago I parked to go play golf and came back and they must have turned on the sprinkler system and the water must be real hard cause it left white water spots. I came home and washed with Z whatever but you can still see some remenants of water spots. Is there a secret to getting these off? Clay bar? ....if clay bar, does it remove the Z2?
Well I did the Zaino Ritual. Oh boy, did it work, not only my car shine, the ritual also attracts rain. Oh boy, it rain heavenly yesterday (thunderstorm, lighnight). Did not know that rain will come as the result of the ritual . Anyway, my question is What should I do? Do I have to Z1 and Z5 again? or just wash my car and Z6. HELP
You should have driven while it was raining - you would have gotten the "complementary car wash". No need to Z1 again for the rest of the year. Z5 or Z2 if you want to, but you'll find that the beading and shining will easily go 3 months.
Try washing again and then drying with a clean 100% cotton (made in USA) towel. That should do it. Most spots result from either dirt/dust on the car to start with or from dust in the air which is "downloaded" (disolved into or carried down) by the rain. Only if that doesn't help should you consider claying. And after claying, wash, rinse, and dry.
Comments
Out Z'ing their cars, no doubt!
Steve
Question about Z6, I am very reluctant to use it on a my car when there is visable dirt on it. I know it not supposed to scratch but I am not too keen on the idea. Do you guys use it on a car that not clean (ie right after or before a coat of Z1/Z5?) Fill me in...Thanks for all the help so far...
DO NOT use Z-6 if the car is dirty! It WILL scratch if there is dirt/pollen present. If the car is just dusty, I use the California Car Duster first and then I use the Z-6.
fastdriver
Wife loves it because the nozzle has a "mist" mode which gently waters flower beds. I switch to "center shower" or "jet" mode to remove loose dirt before washing the car, then to "soak" for final rinse.
Best $7 investment you'll ever make. Simply go to www.homedepot.com and search on SKU# 262775 to see what it looks like. Of course, it's always more fun to just visit you local HD and wander the aisles getting "ideas".
Use to wash and rinse the car. When rinsing, you can almost wet the entire hood or roof at once, then draw the water to the side slowly - the surface tension will pull off 90% of the water. You will never need more than one towel!
Also - use the Z6 right after Z2 or 3 - it will add a further measure of shine to your labors! I personally would never rub anything on my car without washing it first.
"The new Zaino product will be an accelerative additive that can be mixed
with Z-2, Z-3 or Z-5....
Below are just a few of the improvements....
1. When mixed as per directions, you will not need to apply Z-1...
2. It will reduce the drying time, thus making the polish more user friendly
in damp environments...
3. It will increase the gloss factor and extend the durability level..
4. It will have an instant cure time, so you can immediately apply multiple
coats.. No more waiting between coats...
5. And more........
So stay tuned and please be patient for the release date..."
I'm sorry, but this whole drying time is extremely deceptive and frustrating. The Zaino instructions themselves say:
"When it is not humid Z-2 will take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes to dry. Depending on how heavy you applied it. I have applied Z-2 in the Arizona sun and it dried in approx. 3 to 5 minutes. I have also applied it in 38 degree temperature and it took about 2 to 3 hours to dry."
Well, I applied in 70+ degree, below 50% humidity, it did not dry in 2 or 3 hours. Totally misleading. And leaving a car outside, overnight, with stuff settling on it is not a great idea when you have to wipe it down the next day.
If this "instant curer" works, praise the Zaino gods.
First person who emails me can drop by Chandler St. in Boston and pick it up from me for free.
Yep! That's what I posted in #1912 on June 5th. Sal isn't sure exactly when he's going to release it yet. I can't wait. From my experience with Zaino products since the summer of 1998, I wouldn't hesitate for a second to get this new product.
tonychrys-
The new product is something that you can use with your existing Zaino products. I assume that you have been polishing/waxing cars for some time. Is Zaino the ONLY product you ever had a problem removing because of humidity? Personally, I have NEVER had to wait hours for Zaino to dry. I have no clue why. Maybe I use just the right amount. Maybe I happen to pick the "ideal" day temperature wise and humidity wise. Maybe we have the "perfect" climate here in CT. I don't know what the reason is. In most cases, the Z is dry by the time I finish applying it. Did you prep the car the first time you ever applied the Z following Sal's directions and the help that was given here? If I had to wait overnight or days for the Z to dry, I would NOT be using it. Something just isn't right here. Wish I could be of more help. If you want to sell your Zaino supply, I would be happy to buy it from you. Where do you live anyway- AZ or NY? Let me know. Thanks.
fastdriver
I'm pretty precise when it comes to doing any "job" (why else do it yourself?), followed the Zaino "instructions" to a tee. I cleaned and clayed meticulously, as someone else pointed out, prep work is everything.
But this is my point I'm hoping to get across: I'm willing to admit I did something wrong (what it is I don't know until I experiment further), but something is wrong with a product's instructions/guidance when more than one person is running into the same difficulties. I live in NY, have the same weather conditions as you. I think I know a warm, dry day when I see/feel one.
The fact that Zaino is even introducing an instant curer is a red flag that something definitely needed improvement. Again, notice that I haven't condemn the end result of the product, one has to be fair and let time/the elements prove that.
Nope, I'm stubborn and willing to learn from my mistakes, I ain't giving up yet. I still have another car to Z, though I'll be using a different combination of Z-product (Z1/Z2) since this car has a very definite clear coat as opposed to my black Lexus (Z1/Z3).
Living in the Northeast, I want Z to work. I look forward to being able to protect my cars in October and then not have to worry about them until warmer weather.
Hopefully I'll get a Z session in tomorrow since it's suppose to be warm and dry, as opposed to the Noah's Ark episode we had today.
2. How easy is it for you to remove Z2 (or Z5 for that matter) after it has dried? Does the Z come off without any pressure at all? Should it come off like I am dusting a table?
3. It was sunny where I live this weekend so of course I Z'd my cars. I was running on auto-pilot and since I am somewhat new to Zaino I was still in polish and wax mode. After I applied Z5, I removed it. Then I applied Z2 immediately afterward without letting it cure for 24 hours. Is this an issue? I figure since Z2 and Z5 are interchangable that it isn't.
4. How much Z6 do you all use? I use about 1/2 spray of the trigger for an entire section (i.e. one door, or one quarterpanel) I am using too much?
Thanks for your help.
I know I'm not the only zaino who has picked up a little tar, you comment are appreciated.
On a plus note, water beads on this stuff like I've never seen before, and it appears to have made my car a little darker? (red car). Has anyone else noticed this?
On another negative note, I don't appear to be losing any of the swirl marks I had. That may be my own fault since I didn't cut off the edges of my Fieldcrest Royal Velvet towels. Meaning, I may just be putting more in.. hard to tell. I just couldn't bring myself to cut these beautiful soft fluffy bath towels, but I think I will now. Do you all also cut off that decorative stripe? I think my clearcoat scratches if you look at it.
Drying time - never been an issue. Ontario isnt any different than any northeast state - and i havent waited more than 1/2 hour to start wiping off.
Pressure - its not like dusting - slightly more pressure than that is required - but not much.
Edges - cut them off ! Band - do that too (i did)
Z6 - before applying Z2/5 - if car is clean, seems like extra work for little benefit. Definetly after the 5/2 comes off.
Always dust or clean before wiping anything onto car - including Z6.
Open flow on hose - - if you havent tried it - do! It works well.
Not waiting 24 hours inbetween coats - likely a subjective thing since drying times seems to be also. I have done it, (short wait times) but how can you really tell it isnt working ? I cant. It must be adding a layer, even if not as thick? as waiting and having it entirely bond.
I think Im caught up now.
Take Care
Mark
IMHO, I don't think it is necessary to go cutting up you towels. Simply fold them so that those seems are not exposed to the finish. That should be enough to stop "swirl" production.
cdnindc: WD40 should not hurt your Z. After using, just give the car another wasing and apply another Z6 and Z2.
emsiason:
Depending upon humidity levels, you should see a slight haze. If the humidity level is high, however, it may be a little hard to see the white of the haze. Touch it to see if it is dry. When wiping off, you should only use the slightest amount of pressure on the towels.
And now for my question: Are ther any good hints about removing tree sap on a newly Z'd car? I just put a new coat of Z6 on the car, and would hate to start claying all over agains.
Did you wash the applicator pads? Mine freyed after washing and they might cause your swirls. I now wash mine by hand or just not wash them at all.
As far as your swirls go, I don't think Z is the end all solution to swirls. It will help a little but not too much. When you apply and remove Z are you doing it in a circular motion? (I dont know how much help I can be if you already talked to Sal.)
Emaison - I wonder if it is a honda related problem we are having. I can't figure out why it would matter, but the clearcoat on this car sure seems awfully soft and easy to scratch. Whether it is worse than other cars, I don't know. What color is yours?
You should hand wash your applicator pad as soon as you are finished applying the Zaino. I use whatever dishwashing liquid is in the kitchen and hot water and rinse/squeeze the pad thoroughly.
If the smear problem was Honda related, I'd be experiencing it too on my Acura CL. I have the bright red and it's extremely difficult for me to see where I have applied it too. It does not haze like regular wax does. It can barely be seen.
fastdriver
On my white Accord I am not seeing any smearing but that may be because it is more difficult to notice on the white paint.
fastdriver- I notice a haze on my dark green car after the application. I really don't apply that much at all but maybe its still too much?
Mine hazes, but it is hard to see. There have been times on my previous car that I forgot to wipe off a whole section because I didn't notice it! ;-)) That Zaino shine was coming right through that "haze"!
Have you seen pics of the green Accord that automophile has done? No smears on that and he's in smoggy LA! If you go to photopoint.com and put in his e-mail address, you can see the pics. I don't have his address right this minute.
fastdriver
I tried to look at automophile's pics but his email address (from his profile) didn't work.
http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=1016688&a=9788935
Also- I DOES seem that the Accord paint scratches easily, but sometimes I think it is just a type of smearing, and dissappears the next time I wash or Z6 it. ???
You haven't met my wife, have you? You know, the woman that says, "yes, I'm going to have a garage sale next week to get all that stuff out of there so that you can pull in the car."
Hey guess what? Next week has come and gone several times 8-P
Seriously, no I would never let it sit overnight with any stuff on it. As a matter of fact, I'm about to remove my second coat of Z3. And you know today was extremely hot and dry on LI!
One thing Sal should warn us about is the sunburn. This morning I noticed my face was burnt from Zing my white car!
"One thing Sal should warn us about is the sunburn. This morning I noticed my face was burnt from Zing my white car!" LOL.......... it's that Z reflection! ;-)
fastdriver
Mistake #1- not using clay.
Mistake #2- not using DAWN to thoroughly prepare the surface by removing any wax/polish the dealer/factory may have put on.
MY suggestion, even though it's not what you want to hear, start over. Get the clay and use the DAWN.
Read this article and see why clay is suggested even for new cars-
http://www.erazer.com/contamin.htm
Zaino contains NO abrasives. As a result, if the finish is not smooth now, applying Zaino won't make it smooth.
fastdriver
automophile: I still love your pictures. My car is also an Emerald Green Accord and with three new coats of Z5 on it, it looks as good as yours. But you also have great talent as a photographer. Those reflection pics are amazing.
emaison and killakella: Have you tried any of the recommendations over the last weekend?
After being a loyal (and extremely happy Zaino user) for the past few years, I've made converts of several people who swore by thier particular "non-Zaino" brands until I showed them the finish on my 300M and Grand Prix GTP.
In general, that first application is the one that causes the most questions. Experience as you apply more coats is really the best teacher.
Good to see pblevine, fastdriver, daverose and some of the other "zaino old-timers" still posting and giving good advice.
Just wanted to drop an opinion about the Z16. I used to be an avid Meguiars Endurance Tire advocate. After ordering my annual spring Zaino, I gave Z16 a try. No surprize. I tossed the Meguiars Endurance and am now a Z16 zealot, too. It goes on much easier (no "gloppiness" like the Meguiars) and gives a "cleaner look/gloss" to my tires. It lasts longer, too. I plan on using it on my underhood hoses this weekend, too.
Another great Zaino product...Z16
STILL here! At least the new people here aren't calling us "shills" for Sal like in the old days! LOL.... If I got paid for every new person who used Zaino because they saw my pics, I could have retired a LONG time ago!
Still owe you an e-mail. Soon!
fastdriver
Thanks.
Z16 is used as a tire dressing. I'm planning on using it on my "underhood" hoses and "black trim" areas, too. However, it is not recommended for interior vinyl parts or seats. I put it on my tires a couple of weeks ago. It's holding up well (at least as well as Meguiars Endurance). I'll put a 2nd coat on the tires this weekend.
Z6 is the gloss enhancer. Some of us more adverterous types have found other uses for it. I used to use it on my windows. It gives a "rain-x" effect. I quit doing that as Sal really doesn't recommend it for that purpose. Don't really know why, though. It worked well for me. Putting Z6 on the wiper blades really smoothes the wiper blade operation. It is not a substitute for a good window cleaning. Wiper blades should be cleaned as well. I just do a quick wiper blade Z7 wash when I'm detailing my car to get all the "gunk" off them every time I wash my car.
Glad it worked out. Don't clay again until you feel that it's rough again. The wet look shine will come with more coats of Z2/Z5 and Z6. You'll see. Trust me. We haven't steered you wrong yet.
fastdriver
LOL... I hear you. I was parked in my friend's driveway- NOT even UNDER a tree- and I had sap on the car! I told her that it just flies in the air! It came right off when I washed the car. Thanks Zaino.
Have you heard about the new Zaino coming out "soon"? Don't need Z1. Dries almost instantly. AND you can do multiple coats in the SAME day! Oh baby! This new CL-S will be shining like my polyurethane hardwood floors!! LOL.... Ah.... what a fanatic! ;-))
fastdriver
I think Sal is calling the new curing additive "ZFX". 'Can't wait to get my hands on it. Mulitiple coats in a single day. Think of it! Your CL-S will look a lot better than a hardwood floor.
Koury: I usually run a finger along the finish after a quick dusting. I'm still amazed by how well claying will improve the smoothness.