Not to confuse you, but if you were happy with your first application, then there's no need to "Dawn" wash again. Zaino is there on your finish. Just rewash with Z7. Give it a Z6 spray if you so desire and you should be back in business.
Let me "wittle" this down for you for this weekend:
Z7 wash Dry Apply another coat of Z or Z5 Z6 (if you want)
You'll be fine. Zaino is really durable. Even if there was a little old wax left in your old towels, it's not going to be enough to make any difference.
Or, if you want, you can rewash with Dawn. I don't recommend that as Dawn will eventually negate all the hard work you've already done. I don't think you've harmed your previous Zaino application with the towels.
I found the steps on the Zanio site and followed them.
I was just able to wash with dawn, use the claybar, wash with z7, dry, coat with z1, z2, then buff it off, before it got dark last night.
My plan was to use the z6, and a coat of z5 today, then put another coat of z2 tomorrow. Well, the best laid plans... Terrible rainstorm today and I have to make a 2 1/2 hour highway trip tomorrow.
I guess I will end up doing another wash with z7, then the coat of z5, following up with the z2 the day after. (rain not withstanding)
I was just trying to follow altoews recommendation. Sorry Alto, but I think graphicguy might have a point here.
True I may have had some form of wax residue on the towels, hence the non shiny and slick outcome. However, after I applied the Z2 and Z6, the shine was there and also the Slick feeling.
Graphicguy, lets assume that there was some wax residue on the towels, after I applied the Z2, would Z2 have taken off any wax build up on the car?
I would say the test is when I do a Z7 wash this weekend, I HOPE that there will still be some form of shine to the car. Otherwise, well I really am not sure. I will have to keep coming back for some answers here.
I was already planning on doing a Z7 wash and another round of Z2 and Z6 this weekend since we have a wedding to go to on Sunday. So Schedule really hasn't changed much.
Lastly, if there is wax residue on the car, how does that affect the outcome of Zaino? Is it less shiny, less durable, shorter lasting and so on.
On Saturday was my whole ordeal as mentioned above. Saturday afternoon we headed for Atlantic City for the remainder of the weekend. Yes I contributed to the Donald Trump Fund, and left Sunday with nonthing to show for except a large cup of coffee.
Anyway, all throughout the turnpike there was that annoying slow rain. From start to end of our trip it was there. After I parked the car in the garage and also unloaded all of what was left of our valubles, I notice that there was very little rain on the car and also that it was still fairly shiny.
Is the little rain on the car the result of Zaino?
Is the shine AFTER 3 1/2 hour trip in the rain, the typical results of Zaino?
Does this mean I did a good job of Z'ing my car?
Or was it our NJ Acid rain just fizzled right on top of my car?
Yes, yes, yes, don't know about NJ's acid rain. That's why we like Zaino so much. It's so good and so easy to use. As I told my son when we finished his Jetta and rain was forcasted, "Zaino laughs at rain. It's like getting a free wash". Yes folks, it really is that good.
ive gone thru nearly 2 bottles each of z2 and z5 since dec 01-so many coats, i lost count. i did 3 coats of z5 this weekend with no z2. i wanted to see the difference between the two(i have a black car). i just finished 2 coats of z2 a few minutes ago after work and there really is a difference. to my eye, the z5, while super shiny, was not nearly as glossy as adding the z2. i think ive probably maxed out the swirl removing capabilities of z5, so i think ill just stick with the z2. has anyone tried this trick to make z6 last longer...when you get near the end of a bottle, add a little pure water. i use this concentration between coats and full strength for the end(the stuff goes so quick), but i love it!
i just shook my head. one little story...i was in charleston last year and i needed a wash so bad it was killing me. not having any terries, i used the hotel's bath towels, thought id be gentle, no damage done, right. i bummed a 5 gal bucket from the maintenance man and headed off to the wash. even with the most gentle technique, i produced significant swirls(dont laugh, i took my z7 with me)...whether 100% usa terry or mf, anything else is murder on a cars finish...just in case if no one believes the 100's of posts on this board about this topic, dont do it.
I'm a new 2003 BMW 540 owner and want to get advice on starting off right with using Zaino products. My bmw is titanium silver and would be grateful for any advice on which products to go with while my car is still fresh from the factory. I'm in the SF bay area if climate might determine what product to use.
Z2 has no abasives, so it's not going to remove anything that's on your finish. Z7 should remove the little, if any, "other" wax residue that may be there. Don't worry about it. Your next wash should "tell the tale". I'm sure you'll be pleased.
Atoews, no aquiesence required. I think all of us get caught up in being perfect with our cars (me included), and that's never going to happen. Yours was good advice. It doesn't sound like there's really a lot lapvn did that would require to start all over, IMHO!
Crete, tmart is right. Start with the recommendations on the Zaino web site.
I love the 540i. IF you want, you can go the whole routine:
1. Wash with plain Dawn dishwashing liquid to remove any "wax" the dealer may have put on. 2. Clay using Clay Magic or Zaino clay with a 5:1 ratio of Z7 and water as a lube for the clay. 3. Apply ZFX/Z2 mix or Z1 (don't remove it yet) and Z2 on top of the Z1. Let dry and then remove. 4. Do a Z6 "spay and wipe". 5. Apply more of anything (except clay) if you so desire. 6. Remember, very thin coats of Zaino is best (one oz., probably less, should easily do the trick on your BMW)
A 5:1 shampoo/water mix is excessive. If you use that ratio to wash your car, you'd have to use one gallon of Z7 for every 5 gallons of water in your bucket.
Try this: take a 16 ounce plastic spray bottle (they're easy to find in stores) and add about a quarter sized dollop of Z7 and fill the bottle with water. Shake and start spraying.
The goal here is to make a soapy mix to act as a lubricant for clay. There's no scientific measurements required.
lapvn: see, its growing on you. Not only does Z2 shed rain, most dust and road dirt also falls off. Well, most, but my car went through a winter of dirty commuting in the NE. Time to clay the car.
ski1577: It WAS the towels. I made the same mistake the very first time I used Z2 (actually Z1 and then Z2). I think (not really sure about this) that newly applied Z2 or Z5 is still a little bit soft after it has been applied. Even with ZFX added. I noticed that an overnight drying / curing made the Z somewhat less subject to swirls. But a gentle use of a really clean 100% cotton towel should not create swirls when removing Z2 or Z5 residue. Remember to turn the towel after EACH rub stroke to avoid moving already removed residue particles over the still to be removed residue. I now fold my large bath towel in 1/8 sections and use a different section for each removal stroke. Then I shake out the towel and start again. I too have to constantly remember to only use very gentle rubbing actions in the same direction as the flow of the car panel. Don't press down and don't re-work already cleaned panels. After you are done, wait a few minutes, and then apply a quick light application of Z6 to remove any remaining residue particles.
Graphicguy: Good post. I keep my old Z6 spray bottles for use during claying and general maintenance. An old Z6 spray bottle is great for applying Z7/water as a lubricant for claying. I also keep one in the car with a very diluted mixture of Z7 and water to remove bugs and other droppings after a trip. We should mention that the Zain website (www.zainobros.com) has a wealth of application information.
et all: Did ya hear about the fellow who Z'd his very old rusting wreak and then left it out in the rain? Seems that when he came back, the car's metal was all gone and only a thin clear polymer model of his car's shape was left. And with that, a good night to all!
I'm sitting here in the office waiting to due some server upgrades when I last posted and then noticed your post. And thus this side comment.
When claying, I don't really measure the amount of Z7 I add to my water bottle. But I know when its too weak. The lubricant has to do two things: it has to adhear/stick to the car's finish (even on a vertical panel), and it has to allow me to gently glide the clay bar over the surface while picking up embedded brake dust. If the clay feels too sticky, I add some more Z7 to the water and try again. I seem to get the mixture correct after about two trys. That takes about a minute. Its not strickly scientific, but it works for me.
I also place a plastic garbage bag under the panel I'm claying to avoid dropping the clay bar on the ground. That way, if I drop the clay (which is very easy to do), it won't be ruined.
And another side bar story: I once had a used bar of clay with me when I visited a friend to play some softball. He had just driven over some very rough dirt roads and hit a few stones. We noticed oil dripping from his car. After examining the underside, I found the leak on the bottom of his oil pan. So I forced some of my used clay bar into the leak (a small dent of about 1/2 inch) and was able to seal the leak until he could get it repaired.
Question for you. I ahve read your many post and sometimes the simple things get overlooked. You said something in one post about the Z2 from the bottle... Not sure but anyway, you are using the ZFX (drops) to mix in the small bottles with the Z2, correct? In other words; you take a small empty bottle, pour in an ounce or two of Z2 and then 8-10 drops of ZFX, shake well and apply to car from the small bottle. The ZFX is the accellerator which enables the polish to dry quickly and allows multiple coats in the same day. If you are already doing this then no problem, just wanted to be sure you were not overlooking a simple but very important step.
Actually the way I understood is was this. My first time was using ZFX+Z5 because in one day I needed to apply multiple coats of Z5.
Then on the following weekend, I only applied Z2 straight from the bottle. I had emailed Sal, and their reply was that since I already had done the ZFX the previous week, there was no need for me to do it again, unless I was going to do multiple coats right away. He said that they recommend to apply with ZFX 2x a year.
This is why I asked about the 6 hour lay over between coats.
So I guess to answer your question, I did not use any ZFX when I applied Z2 last weekend.
Was this wrong?
I thought on those days where time was on short supply, thats when I use ZFX. BTW, when is time not on short supply?
Went to BJ's last night and I came out with only a sunshade. ssssshhhhhhhsss
Towels: all they had were Wamsutta brand and it was marked as Egytian Cotton. No where did it say USA Cotton. I did not buy any towels. Also some of the tags said 100% Cotton/ Polymer (or another word that started in a letter G) NONE of the towels said plainly 100% cotton. Some had "Fabrique made en USA", but from what I gather on the spelling it was not in English. Talk about making my head spin.
California Duster: Ask the counter for help, never heard of such an animal here. Next stop internet.
Tide: No sense in me buying a huge supply when it would just be for the towels.
Egyptian cotton is a specific type of cotton fiber grown worldwide.
Many items are marked Fabrique/Hecho/Made in USA for ease in selling the same product in Mexico, America, and Canada. The big thing is that they are 100% US Made cotton.
Here is what I found on AMAZONriver.com (take out the river) in regarding this product.
The Original California Car Duster 62442 Special baked-on wax treated cotton fibre strands "lift" dust without scratching paint Lasts for years and years No "retreating" wax required Includes handy carrying case The dirtier it gets, the better it works
properautocare.com-They have everything you need for your car (except Z, of course). I ordered from them, stuff came 4 or 5 days later. For my 03'EXV6 Accord, I bought Lexol cleaner/conditioner for the leather, 303 protectant for the interior vinyl and plastic, and stoners invisible glass cleaner plus a small microfiber towel for the windows. After I Z7/Z2/Z6 my graphite gray exterior, Lexol the leather and 303 the dashboard and vinyl parts(it also gives the tires a nice matte finish), the car looks better than when I took out of the dealership. People walk by the car and ask me if I just got the car. The Z2 is amazing, the gray looks so wet. Keep at it, I'm sure you will get the same results.
I've used my CA Duster for years. It does get better with age. If memory serves me, I bought it at Sam's Club. It was a package deal where you got a big one for the outside of the car and a smaller one for the inside dash, console, etc.
At the time, I think it was about $20 for both. Don't know what they cost now. They won't hurt your finish.
I've seen them at different places since then....Pep boys, Sears, etc.
lapvn....I've bought towels at Linens and Things (can't go in there without feeling funny....like shopping at "Michaels" for little bottles. Everyone is right....you want 100% cotton U.S. made towels.
Thanks to Tmart, I went to Target last night and purchased a duster, can't go wrong it was only $12.
Towels is another story. All the brands they carried said "100% cotton", however upone closer look of the tag, they all say made in XXX country. So no towels as of yet. I decided to look into our linen closet, and and there was a treasure chest of Fieldcrest and Cannon towels. Well at least enough to give me 16 or so pieces. I just had to promise my wife that we will buy new ones since these were pretty old any way. In my journey to look for more, I called up my mother and asked her to look into her linen closet for some old towels she wouldn't mind splitting with (mom seems to keep everything). Anyway I instructed her that it had to be "100% cottong" and it had to be "made in the USA". She told me that I was crazy, that this was only for the car what is the big deal. I just told her that upon the instruction's of the manufacturer, it has to be as I mentioned.
You have to admit guys / gals, it does seem to sound a bit odd that we have strict guide lines for the towels. And at the same time none of us blink an eye at any other set of towels. I have no problems with getting the towels, this is after all what is recommended by everyone here and by Zaino. As crazy as it sounds, it makes sense to me. Gosh I really need my head examined.
So I guess I am set for this weekend. Set of 100% cotton towels for the new car, terry towels with wax residue for the old car. I have my Z7, Z2 and Z6 all ready to go.
I started by taking some of the good towels from the linen closet that were 100% cot. made in the USA. and told my wife to buy some new ones that she liked. They work great for taking off product, but drying is another issue. After hanging around the boards for a while I decided to try MF towels. One word "awesome". No lint, let me repeat that no lint. The are softer than cotton and cannot scratch and unlike the many chamois I have collected MF towels are super easy to wring out and resume drying. They hold like 7 times more water than a standard towel. Bret provided some links several pages ago. I also found a place that sells smaller sizes 16 x 16, and 16 x 24 $2.50 and $3.50 respectively. Fluid Manufacturing in Lodi, CA. Under Google first name that came up.
I am in Ca. and they were on my door step in two days. Shipping is cheap since it is by weight, a couple of dollars. I ordered a few to start as samples to experiment and within a week I was back order lots more. Tons of applications. I am currently awaiting the large sized drying towels. The MF towels are not any more expensive than the cotton and would be a welcome addition to any detailers collection of tools.
I have had a CA Duster for many, many, years and they are great. Our Ody is a month old now and looks better than when we purchased it. I went a different route, Wash, clay, hi-temp polish HT-61, ps21, #20 poly sealant by Meguiar's and than more coats of ps21. The inside was done as well with a host of othe products. Quite impressed with the 303 products. The Fabric Guard works so well (used on the carpet and headliner) that I took some soda and poured in on the mats and I could roll the soda back and forth on the mat while holding the ends of the mat. It would not penetrate. I left it on the mat over nite and the soda was still there in a puddle in the morning. Dropped a paper towel on it and it absorbed it all up with no marks on the mat. I picked a popular kid drink to try since its a van with kids.
Wow, this was going to be a few comments about MF towels. I would try a few to compliment your cotton towels.
Actually I saw a econo pack of 12 MF towels over at BJ's. I wasn't too sure of how good they were, but from looking at it, they look like cheap towels. Beside's going from the links above, is there anyway to tell a bad from a good brand of MF towels?
Also some have mentioned this 303 product, can someone explain more please. I know this is a zaino forum, just a short explanation will do. I probably will start on the interior some time next month or so.
True enough. After trying the smaller MF towels for dusting and cleaning floors my wife wanted her own set. No lint when cleaning windows or bath mirrors and when you dust the tv or computer screen of dust it picks up all the dust without pushing into the corners. Buy her a few samples and in no time you'll own a set for the cars.he, he, he he he he.........
lapvn--don't know if you have leather or not, but the Zaino leather care products are superb.
303 is a series of cloth and vinyl cleaners. My interior has never become dirty enough to need them. They are usually sold as "bulk" cleaners (in quarts and gallons).
I'm no expert, (in fact, I haven't even purchased my Zaino.....yet) but I seem to remember reading somewhere that you shouldn't use fabric softener when drying "car towels" If your wife is anything like mine chances are she used softener on these old towels of yours. Don't exactly remember why you're not suppose to use softener, maybe someone else can comment on it.
Graphicguy, you really want to put me in the dog house. This is the first car we have bought that has leather on it. I have commented before over at the Honda forum that I once looked into someones Pilot and saw how crappy his leather looked. It was all cracked as if it was the skin of a 90 year old man living under the sun all his life. And the Pilot was less than one year old. I can't say for sure if I am that picky with my interior SHINE as my exterior. I do know that I would really want to protect the interior from cracking and any milk / soda stains. At the risk getting in trouble, what would you suggest for a store bought product, and how would you rate it to a similar product from Zaino.
mxpx - You are absolutely correct. In fact I was looking for that post this morning because I couldn't count on my memory cells, but that post also mentioned something about using ammonia to take off any wax residue. It was by atoews, on post # 4749.
I was going to wash the towels tonight with Tide as per another post. I was also trying to figure out if I use clorox bleach with the wash if that would be ok instead of using ammonia, I can't stand the smell.
Post 4749 Note that adding ammonia (in the washing machine) to the towel wash helps cut through wax on the towels. Make sure the water is as hot as possible. I use ammonia in my washing machine for Z towels, and it works fine. I also use vinegar in the rinse cycle for towels to maximize the ability to cut through the soap. Ammonia cuts through grease (so use in the wash cycle) and vinegar cuts through soap (so use in the rinse cycle). You only use 1/2 cup of ammonia or vinegar, both of which are rinsed from the towels. Towels cleaned in this way will not hurt your car. I have been known to run several rinse cycles to make sure the towels are perfectly clean.
Also, FYI, on my color of car (medium grey green), Z6 makes all the difference in the world to the appearance of the car, so you are not just imagining things if you think Z6 is the icing on the cake.
The pores of the fabric are sealed by the softener so the towels won't absorb water.
303 is not only for vinyl it is designed for use on leather as well. Pick up a bottle and look at what it does better yet go to their web site. Then go to the store and buy the Fabric guard (303) spray it on a tie, your leather shoes, carpet, your leather sitting chair and see for yourself it does work on leather and much more. It is a stain guard, with uv protection that will water proof whatever that will not effect the breath ability of what you are treating. Try it, it will be well worth the $12 a bottle and I bet you are up at night thinking of additional uses.
My understanding is that you should never use Z2 or Z5 alone. Forget about the old Z1. Using the newest best method of ZFX, then mixing the ZFX with either Z2 or Z5 is the only correct way. The ZFX is an accelerator that makes the polish dry much faster. If you don't use the ZFX it would not hurt anything, but it would take a very long time to dry, and in fact, it sounds like you did not use the ZFX and when you went to take the polish off, it was not dry, so you had a diddicult time with it.
Anyway, for those that have been doing this a long time, please correct me if I am wrong. Believe me, I have been wrong before. Just would like for lapvn and myself to better understand.
You can definitely use Z2 and Z5 alone. Of course, it would be on top of a prior coat with Z1 or ZFX. You only NEED to use the ZFX or Z1 about twice a year. In between, use the Z2 or Z5 alone. You'd then wait the 6-12 hours before adding another coat. If you don't want to wait, you can always use the ZFX for multi coats or quicker drying time. Won't hurt anything but your wallet.
I don't think ZFX makes much if any difference in the drying time. I have used Z2 and Z5 a lot, both with ZFX (when I am doing mutiple coats in one day) and without, and I don't think there is much difference in the drying time.
The ZFX, however, causes the Z2 or Z5 to CURE almost instantly. Used alone, the Z2 or Z5 needs about 12 to 24 hours to cure.
Curing and drying are quite different. If you apply a second coat before the first coat has cured, the second coat just mixes with the first and you have accomplished nothing.
Even if the ZFX does help the Z to dry faster so you can remove it a little bit sooner, that is not its primary advantage or even its function.
The reason for 100% cotton is that blends will scratch your car. The reason for getting USA made is that USA made are honest on their labels. Foreign made towels may say 100% cotton but may not be.
You can test a "cheap" towel's fiber content by burning one of them or a small piece of one of them. 100% cotton produces ash, but there will be melting if the fabric is a cotton/synthetic blend.
If you are confident that your "cheap" towels are 100% cotton, then go with the cheap towels.
I plan on purchasing my Zaino soon and just have a few questions before I do.
1. For the Dawn wash, how much Dawn is recommended? (Not really a Zaino question)
2. How durable are the Zaino Bros' Custom Polish Applicators? I plan on applying 3 coats (Z/5,Z/2,Z/2 with ZFX) all in one day and was wondering if I need to get more than the one free applicator that's included with my purchase.
3.Should I apply the Z/5,Z/2 to the exterior plastic,trim or should I use the Zano Bros' Plastic-Magic Cleaner & Polish (Z/14)?
4. Do I need to have my head examined? I Mean I haven't even taken delivery on my Mazda6 yet (1st week of June) and all I can think of is how it's gonna look after the Zaino treatment. The anticipation of that is almost as unbearable as waiting for the car itself. Thanks in advance, MxPx
1. Doesn't really matter how much dawn you use, just put in enough to make good suds. I didn't use Dawn before I zainoed because grease cutting isn't good for paint at anytime but that's personal preference. You could just use a good pre-cleaner such as PS21 paintwork cleaner and then a good wash with car wash soap but that's another debate in itself.
2. One applicator is plenty but remember to wash it immeadiately afterwards and remember you use so little of zaino that the applicator isn't saturated with zaino. Also, I would just pick either Z2 or Z5, the difference is negligible and you save money. Z5 does not cover swirl marks like claimed, barely if any. I have both but save the money first and just use Z5 only, you won't notice the difference. Hiding swirls with zaino is all about prep work, if you prep the paint well, you will hide everything.
3. I don't know about the trim, I would use it on the glass if you want and metal rims, supposedly it keeps everything cleaner.
LOL....You don't even have your car yet and you already need a Zaino Anonymous meeting! ;-)))))) lapvn has really brought this topic back to life!
Here's a few pics that I took this past Friday. Looks good for not having Zaino on it since LAST August! After the winter we've had in CT, it shows you how well the Z protects!
I will try to keep this as short as possible and also divide it into two parts.
On Saturday wife went to get a manicure, pedicure and highlights. While waiting I was thinking what should I do with my next 4 hours What better opportunity than to work on the 10 year car and either prove my wife wrong that Zaino really does work, or once and for all prove that maybe the past few weeks I was just under the influence of the Zaino fumes.
First I dawned the car, then clayed it. If you remember oh roughly about 10 million of my post back, I said I wasn't too impress with the claying since it didn't take out too much dirt. Well this prove me wrong, I said, WOW this clay actually got DIRTY. And the feel of the parts I did was 100 times better than the parts I did not clay. Yes I only clayed half the hood, and the driver side. Not only could you feel the difference but you could also hear the difference. So I went ahead and Z5 the areas that I clayed to test the shine.
Though I was warned by the experts here, I did not see that much of a difference of the polish. There was a difference, but then again, this is an old car and the last 7 years has been under the sun without any normal waxing or anything. It was rediculous of me to think that the luster would be back, and at the same time, it is a white car. The proof though was in the feel. It was as slick as ice. It was funny, the towels would stop cold on the area of the hood where I did not clay and Z5.
So for now, my plan next week is to give the entire car the clay treatment. My thinking here is why should I waiste Zaino of a car when I won't see the difference. I think after I clay the car, I will just use normal Turtle Wax on it just so to protect it. What do you guys think?
Now I am thinking, this is the best way to prove to my wife that every single bit of penny I have spent on Dr. Zaino's evil potion works. And that all the time I have spent with the car was well worth it, instead of some QUALITY time. The response I got from her, "Why didn't you vacuum the car?" I can never win. Such is marriage life.
I am such a 35 year old kid at heart, just because I bought that darn duster, I made sure I Z7 the car, dried it, Z6 and garage it overnight. Sunday morning, rushed right out after my first pot of coffee and used the darn thing. I felt like such an idiot, probably the only guy on my street that actually dust his exterior of the car, but couldn't think of dusting the house.
Anyway, after my debacle last week, everything is fine. Old fieldcrest towels washed in Tide Saturday night. After the wash, dry, and Z6, the car was nice and shiny. And then of course I had to apply a coat of ZFX + Z2, then after taking it off I applied a coat of ZFX + Z5. With a Z6 in between and in the end. I think I am getting this thing down pat.
OK, couple more questions (what more, this guy just doesn't stop asking).
No big issues really, Since I only applied one coat of the Z2 and the Z5, I only needed 1/2 ounce of each. As per the directions, I just added 2 drops of the ZFX to each bottle. Was this ok? To me it was really just simple math, divide the recommended measurements. Just double checking.
Secondly, Again I found the Z2 to streak after leaving it on the car for about 1 1/2 hours. Given the temp, here in the NJ area, just slightly above 60's, did I remove the Z2 to early?
Thirdly, and Lastly (THANK GOD), is the Z5 a heavier consistency than than Z2? I just want to make sure that my Z5 is not an expired bottle or what not. At times, I see an oily substance come out and constantly have to shake it.
My turn to give some pointers, immediately after applying the Z2 or the Z5, I would wash out each bottle 2x with dawn in it. After giving it a gub swipe on the inside using a BBQ stick and also a paper towels, the bottles are as clean as new. As mentioned before I'm a bit of a dork to make sure everything works out right with this Zaino stuff, that with the bottles coming out so clean, this just gave me a big smile. My god, I need to get a life, does life go on sale at BJ's or Costco?
fastdriver....as always, beautiful car! Just think what it will look like after another coat.......
lapvn.....um lots of questions, but in genreal, it has been humid in Southern OH. I'll assume it's been humid in your 'burg which could explain the longer drying time. The two most common causes of streaks is humidity and applying too much zaino. I've never looked closely and the consistency of Z2 or Z5, but they spread just about the same, so I'll assume they have similar consistency. That's a good question for Sal, however.
If I remeber correctly, you said that the paint was in bad shape on the older car. Zaino won't bring it back to life (nor will many other products short of a new paint job if it's that bad), but you will have great protection for the finish that's still there.
mxpx...I'm pretty hard on the zaino applicators. I wash them pretty aggressively to try to get them very clean, so mine only last about 3 coats and washings. I'm waiting to try the "micorfiber" applicators that bret mentioned.
Spoke to the people at Zaino regarding my Z5 bottle. They seem to think there is something wrong with it since I have this oily substance. They are sending me a replacement and also a return lable for the defective bottle.
GREAT GREAT custumer service.
They didn't come out to say if anything was wrong with my bottle of Z5, but they did want to take a look at it.
Comments
Z7 Wash
Z6
ZFX+Z2
Z6
ZFX+Z2
Z6
Let me "wittle" this down for you for this weekend:
Z7 wash
Dry
Apply another coat of Z or Z5
Z6 (if you want)
You'll be fine. Zaino is really durable. Even if there was a little old wax left in your old towels, it's not going to be enough to make any difference.
Or, if you want, you can rewash with Dawn. I don't recommend that as Dawn will eventually negate all the hard work you've already done. I don't think you've harmed your previous Zaino application with the towels.
I was just able to wash with dawn, use the claybar, wash with z7, dry, coat with z1, z2, then buff it off, before it got dark last night.
My plan was to use the z6, and a coat of z5 today, then put another coat of z2 tomorrow. Well, the best laid plans... Terrible rainstorm today and I have to make a 2 1/2 hour highway trip tomorrow.
I guess I will end up doing another wash with z7, then the coat of z5, following up with the z2 the day after. (rain not withstanding)
Does this sound right?
julie
True I may have had some form of wax residue on the towels, hence the non shiny and slick outcome. However, after I applied the Z2 and Z6, the shine was there and also the Slick feeling.
Graphicguy, lets assume that there was some wax residue on the towels, after I applied the Z2, would Z2 have taken off any wax build up on the car?
I would say the test is when I do a Z7 wash this weekend, I HOPE that there will still be some form of shine to the car. Otherwise, well I really am not sure. I will have to keep coming back for some answers here.
I was already planning on doing a Z7 wash and another round of Z2 and Z6 this weekend since we have a wedding to go to on Sunday. So Schedule really hasn't changed much.
Lastly, if there is wax residue on the car, how does that affect the outcome of Zaino? Is it less shiny, less durable, shorter lasting and so on.
Anyway, all throughout the turnpike there was that annoying slow rain. From start to end of our trip it was there. After I parked the car in the garage and also unloaded all of what was left of our valubles, I notice that there was very little rain on the car and also that it was still fairly shiny.
Is the little rain on the car the result of Zaino?
Is the shine AFTER 3 1/2 hour trip in the rain, the typical results of Zaino?
Does this mean I did a good job of Z'ing my car?
Or was it our NJ Acid rain just fizzled right on top of my car?
Atoews, no aquiesence required. I think all of us get caught up in being perfect with our cars (me included), and that's never going to happen. Yours was good advice. It doesn't sound like there's really a lot lapvn did that would require to start all over, IMHO!
Crete, tmart is right. Start with the recommendations on the Zaino web site.
I love the 540i. IF you want, you can go the whole routine:
1. Wash with plain Dawn dishwashing liquid to remove any "wax" the dealer may have put on.
2. Clay using Clay Magic or Zaino clay with a 5:1 ratio of Z7 and water as a lube for the clay.
3. Apply ZFX/Z2 mix or Z1 (don't remove it yet) and Z2 on top of the Z1. Let dry and then remove.
4. Do a Z6 "spay and wipe".
5. Apply more of anything (except clay) if you so desire.
6. Remember, very thin coats of Zaino is best (one oz., probably less, should easily do the trick on your BMW)
Try this: take a 16 ounce plastic spray bottle (they're easy to find in stores) and add about a quarter sized dollop of Z7 and fill the bottle with water. Shake and start spraying.
The goal here is to make a soapy mix to act as a lubricant for clay. There's no scientific measurements required.
ski1577: It WAS the towels. I made the same mistake the very first time I used Z2 (actually Z1 and then Z2). I think (not really sure about this) that newly applied Z2 or Z5 is still a little bit soft after it has been applied. Even with ZFX added. I noticed that an overnight drying / curing made the Z somewhat less subject to swirls. But a gentle use of a really clean 100% cotton towel should not create swirls when removing Z2 or Z5 residue. Remember to turn the towel after EACH rub stroke to avoid moving already removed residue particles over the still to be removed residue. I now fold my large bath towel in 1/8 sections and use a different section for each removal stroke. Then I shake out the towel and start again. I too have to constantly remember to only use very gentle rubbing actions in the same direction as the flow of the car panel. Don't press down and don't re-work already cleaned panels. After you are done, wait a few minutes, and then apply a quick light application of Z6 to remove any remaining residue particles.
Graphicguy: Good post. I keep my old Z6 spray bottles for use during claying and general maintenance. An old Z6 spray bottle is great for applying Z7/water as a lubricant for claying. I also keep one in the car with a very diluted mixture of Z7 and water to remove bugs and other droppings after a trip. We should mention that the Zain website (www.zainobros.com) has a wealth of application information.
et all: Did ya hear about the fellow who Z'd his very old rusting wreak and then left it out in the rain? Seems that when he came back, the car's metal was all gone and only a thin clear polymer model of his car's shape was left. And with that, a good night to all!
When claying, I don't really measure the amount of Z7 I add to my water bottle. But I know when its too weak. The lubricant has to do two things: it has to adhear/stick to the car's finish (even on a vertical panel), and it has to allow me to gently glide the clay bar over the surface while picking up embedded brake dust. If the clay feels too sticky, I add some more Z7 to the water and try again. I seem to get the mixture correct after about two trys. That takes about a minute. Its not strickly scientific, but it works for me.
I also place a plastic garbage bag under the panel I'm claying to avoid dropping the clay bar on the ground. That way, if I drop the clay (which is very easy to do), it won't be ruined.
And another side bar story: I once had a used bar of clay with me when I visited a friend to play some softball. He had just driven over some very rough dirt roads and hit a few stones. We noticed oil dripping from his car. After examining the underside, I found the leak on the bottom of his oil pan. So I forced some of my used clay bar into the leak (a small dent of about 1/2 inch) and was able to seal the leak until he could get it repaired.
CUSAFR
Then on the following weekend, I only applied Z2 straight from the bottle. I had emailed Sal, and their reply was that since I already had done the ZFX the previous week, there was no need for me to do it again, unless I was going to do multiple coats right away. He said that they recommend to apply with ZFX 2x a year.
This is why I asked about the 6 hour lay over between coats.
So I guess to answer your question, I did not use any ZFX when I applied Z2 last weekend.
Was this wrong?
I thought on those days where time was on short supply, thats when I use ZFX. BTW, when is time not on short supply?
Towels: all they had were Wamsutta brand and it was marked as Egytian Cotton. No where did it say USA Cotton. I did not buy any towels.
Also some of the tags said 100% Cotton/ Polymer (or another word that started in a letter G)
NONE of the towels said plainly 100% cotton.
Some had "Fabrique made en USA", but from what I gather on the spelling it was not in English.
Talk about making my head spin.
California Duster: Ask the counter for help, never heard of such an animal here. Next stop internet.
Tide: No sense in me buying a huge supply when it would just be for the towels.
And total in my cart, 1 jumbo sun shade.
Many items are marked Fabrique/Hecho/Made in USA for ease in selling the same product in Mexico, America, and Canada. The big thing is that they are 100% US Made cotton.
The Original California Car Duster 62442
Special baked-on wax treated cotton fibre strands "lift" dust without scratching paint
Lasts for years and years
No "retreating" wax required
Includes handy carrying case
The dirtier it gets, the better it works
Is this wax ok for Zaino?
At the time, I think it was about $20 for both. Don't know what they cost now. They won't hurt your finish.
I've seen them at different places since then....Pep boys, Sears, etc.
lapvn....I've bought towels at Linens and Things (can't go in there without feeling funny....like shopping at "Michaels" for little bottles. Everyone is right....you want 100% cotton U.S. made towels.
Towels is another story. All the brands they carried said "100% cotton", however upone closer look of the tag, they all say made in XXX country. So no towels as of yet. I decided to look into our linen closet, and and there was a treasure chest of Fieldcrest and Cannon towels. Well at least enough to give me 16 or so pieces. I just had to promise my wife that we will buy new ones since these were pretty old any way. In my journey to look for more, I called up my mother and asked her to look into her linen closet for some old towels she wouldn't mind splitting with (mom seems to keep everything). Anyway I instructed her that it had to be "100% cottong" and it had to be "made in the USA". She told me that I was crazy, that this was only for the car what is the big deal. I just told her that upon the instruction's of the manufacturer, it has to be as I mentioned.
You have to admit guys / gals, it does seem to sound a bit odd that we have strict guide lines for the towels. And at the same time none of us blink an eye at any other set of towels. I have no problems with getting the towels, this is after all what is recommended by everyone here and by Zaino. As crazy as it sounds, it makes sense to me. Gosh I really need my head examined.
So I guess I am set for this weekend. Set of 100% cotton towels for the new car, terry towels with wax residue for the old car. I have my Z7, Z2 and Z6 all ready to go.
I miss my second straight ZA meeting last night.
I am in Ca. and they were on my door step in two days. Shipping is cheap since it is by weight, a couple of dollars. I ordered a few to start as samples to experiment and within a week I was back order lots more. Tons of applications. I am currently awaiting the large sized drying towels. The MF towels are not any more expensive than the cotton and would be a welcome addition to any detailers collection of tools.
I have had a CA Duster for many, many, years and they are great. Our Ody is a month old now and looks better than when we purchased it. I went a different route, Wash, clay, hi-temp polish HT-61, ps21, #20 poly sealant by Meguiar's and than more coats of ps21. The inside was done as well with a host of othe products. Quite impressed with the 303 products. The Fabric Guard works so well (used on the carpet and headliner) that I took some soda and poured in on the mats and I could roll the soda back and forth on the mat while holding the ends of the mat. It would not penetrate. I left it on the mat over nite and the soda was still there in a puddle in the morning. Dropped a paper towel on it and it absorbed it all up with no marks on the mat. I picked a popular kid drink to try since its a van with kids.
Wow, this was going to be a few comments about MF towels. I would try a few to compliment your cotton towels.
Also some have mentioned this 303 product, can someone explain more please. I know this is a zaino forum, just a short explanation will do. I probably will start on the interior some time next month or so.
If these MF towels are so good in sucking up water to dry up the car, won't these towels do wonder in the bathrooms and also the kitchen?
303 is a series of cloth and vinyl cleaners. My interior has never become dirty enough to need them. They are usually sold as "bulk" cleaners (in quarts and gallons).
http://www.cannonoutlet.com/fieldcrestcannonoutlet/index.html
If you buy seconds, your spouse may not hate you.
Fabric softener tends to reduce absorbancy.
mxpx - You are absolutely correct. In fact I was looking for that post this morning because I couldn't count on my memory cells, but that post also mentioned something about using ammonia to take off any wax residue. It was by atoews, on post # 4749.
I was going to wash the towels tonight with Tide as per another post. I was also trying to figure out if I use clorox bleach with the wash if that would be ok instead of using ammonia, I can't stand the smell.
Post 4749
Note that adding ammonia (in the washing machine) to the towel wash helps cut through wax on the towels. Make sure the water is as hot as possible. I use ammonia in my washing machine for Z towels, and it works fine. I also use vinegar in the rinse cycle for towels to maximize the ability to cut through the soap. Ammonia cuts through grease (so use in the wash cycle) and vinegar cuts through soap (so use in the rinse cycle). You only use 1/2 cup of ammonia or vinegar, both of which are rinsed from the towels. Towels cleaned in this way will not hurt your car.
I have been known to run several rinse cycles to make sure the towels are perfectly clean.
Also, FYI, on my color of car (medium grey green), Z6 makes all the difference in the world to the appearance of the car, so you are not just imagining things if you think Z6 is the icing on the cake.
303 is not only for vinyl it is designed for use on leather as well. Pick up a bottle and look at what it does better yet go to their web site. Then go to the store and buy the Fabric guard (303) spray it on a tie, your leather shoes, carpet, your leather sitting chair and see for yourself it does work on leather and much more. It is a stain guard, with uv protection that will water proof whatever that will not effect the breath ability of what you are treating. Try it, it will be well worth the $12 a bottle and I bet you are up at night thinking of additional uses.
Anyway, for those that have been doing this a long time, please correct me if I am wrong. Believe me, I have been wrong before. Just would like for lapvn and myself to better understand.
Thanks,
CUSAFR
The ZFX, however, causes the Z2 or Z5 to CURE almost instantly. Used alone, the Z2 or Z5 needs about 12 to 24 hours to cure.
Curing and drying are quite different. If you apply a second coat before the first coat has cured, the second coat just mixes with the first and you have accomplished nothing.
Even if the ZFX does help the Z to dry faster so you can remove it a little bit sooner, that is not its primary advantage or even its function.
You can test a "cheap" towel's fiber content by burning one of them or a small piece of one of them. 100% cotton produces ash, but there will be melting if the fabric is a cotton/synthetic blend.
If you are confident that your "cheap" towels are 100% cotton, then go with the cheap towels.
1. For the Dawn wash, how much Dawn is recommended? (Not really a Zaino question)
2. How durable are the Zaino Bros' Custom Polish Applicators? I plan on applying 3 coats (Z/5,Z/2,Z/2 with ZFX) all in one day and was wondering if I need to get more than the one free applicator that's included with my purchase.
3.Should I apply the Z/5,Z/2 to the exterior plastic,trim or should I use the Zano Bros' Plastic-Magic Cleaner & Polish (Z/14)?
4. Do I need to have my head examined? I Mean I haven't even taken delivery on my Mazda6 yet (1st week of June) and all I can think of is how it's gonna look after the Zaino treatment. The anticipation of that is almost as unbearable as waiting for the car itself.
Thanks in advance,
MxPx
Exemplary deep finish and long lasting too.
2. One applicator is plenty but remember to wash it immeadiately afterwards and remember you use so little of zaino that the applicator isn't saturated with zaino. Also, I would just pick either Z2 or Z5, the difference is negligible and you save money. Z5 does not cover swirl marks like claimed, barely if any. I have both but save the money first and just use Z5 only, you won't notice the difference. Hiding swirls with zaino is all about prep work, if you prep the paint well, you will hide everything.
3. I don't know about the trim, I would use it on the glass if you want and metal rims, supposedly it keeps everything cleaner.
4. Yes
Alex
LOL....You don't even have your car yet and you already need a Zaino Anonymous meeting! ;-)))))) lapvn has really brought this topic back to life!
Here's a few pics that I took this past Friday. Looks good for not having Zaino on it since LAST August! After the winter we've had in CT, it shows you how well the Z protects!
http://photos.yahoo.com/ramrod2@snet.net
Enjoy.
fastdriver
On Saturday wife went to get a manicure, pedicure and highlights. While waiting I was thinking what should I do with my next 4 hours What better opportunity than to work on the 10 year car and either prove my wife wrong that Zaino really does work, or once and for all prove that maybe the past few weeks I was just under the influence of the Zaino fumes.
First I dawned the car, then clayed it. If you remember oh roughly about 10 million of my post back, I said I wasn't too impress with the claying since it didn't take out too much dirt. Well this prove me wrong, I said, WOW this clay actually got DIRTY. And the feel of the parts I did was 100 times better than the parts I did not clay. Yes I only clayed half the hood, and the driver side. Not only could you feel the difference but you could also hear the difference. So I went ahead and Z5 the areas that I clayed to test the shine.
Though I was warned by the experts here, I did not see that much of a difference of the polish. There was a difference, but then again, this is an old car and the last 7 years has been under the sun without any normal waxing or anything. It was rediculous of me to think that the luster would be back, and at the same time, it is a white car. The proof though was in the feel. It was as slick as ice. It was funny, the towels would stop cold on the area of the hood where I did not clay and Z5.
So for now, my plan next week is to give the entire car the clay treatment. My thinking here is why should I waiste Zaino of a car when I won't see the difference. I think after I clay the car, I will just use normal Turtle Wax on it just so to protect it. What do you guys think?
Now I am thinking, this is the best way to prove to my wife that every single bit of penny I have spent on Dr. Zaino's evil potion works. And that all the time I have spent with the car was well worth it, instead of some QUALITY time. The response I got from her, "Why didn't you vacuum the car?" I can never win. Such is marriage life.
Anyway, after my debacle last week, everything is fine. Old fieldcrest towels washed in Tide Saturday night. After the wash, dry, and Z6, the car was nice and shiny. And then of course I had to apply a coat of ZFX + Z2, then after taking it off I applied a coat of ZFX + Z5. With a Z6 in between and in the end. I think I am getting this thing down pat.
OK, couple more questions (what more, this guy just doesn't stop asking).
No big issues really, Since I only applied one coat of the Z2 and the Z5, I only needed 1/2 ounce of each. As per the directions, I just added 2 drops of the ZFX to each bottle. Was this ok? To me it was really just simple math, divide the recommended measurements. Just double checking.
Secondly, Again I found the Z2 to streak after leaving it on the car for about 1 1/2 hours. Given the temp, here in the NJ area, just slightly above 60's, did I remove the Z2 to early?
Thirdly, and Lastly (THANK GOD), is the Z5 a heavier consistency than than Z2? I just want to make sure that my Z5 is not an expired bottle or what not. At times, I see an oily substance come out and constantly have to shake it.
My turn to give some pointers, immediately after applying the Z2 or the Z5, I would wash out each bottle 2x with dawn in it. After giving it a gub swipe on the inside using a BBQ stick and also a paper towels, the bottles are as clean as new. As mentioned before I'm a bit of a dork to make sure everything works out right with this Zaino stuff, that with the bottles coming out so clean, this just gave me a big smile. My god, I need to get a life, does life go on sale at BJ's or Costco?
lapvn.....um lots of questions, but in genreal, it has been humid in Southern OH. I'll assume it's been humid in your 'burg which could explain the longer drying time. The two most common causes of streaks is humidity and applying too much zaino. I've never looked closely and the consistency of Z2 or Z5, but they spread just about the same, so I'll assume they have similar consistency. That's a good question for Sal, however.
If I remeber correctly, you said that the paint was in bad shape on the older car. Zaino won't bring it back to life (nor will many other products short of a new paint job if it's that bad), but you will have great protection for the finish that's still there.
mxpx...I'm pretty hard on the zaino applicators. I wash them pretty aggressively to try to get them very clean, so mine only last about 3 coats and washings. I'm waiting to try the "micorfiber" applicators that bret mentioned.
GREAT GREAT custumer service.
They didn't come out to say if anything was wrong with my bottle of Z5, but they did want to take a look at it.