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Old 30th June 2012, 09:10   #4
rovexCDTi
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Quick Detailers

These are sprays that you use after a wash and between waxings. They clean and lay down an extra layer of protection, restoring gloss. Just spray on after your rinse and dry the car with a large microfibre cloth. Takes a few minutes and leaves the car spotless. No more water marks. Handy to keep in a the glove box in case of bird droppings!
Pretty much any one will do, but try to match it with your top coat, so same brand, same type (natural or synthetic). Some are specific to a top coat, like the Wolf Chemicals Nano QD. You can even use a stronger solution of Optimum No Rinse as a QD, I dont find its a good clay lube though. you could also use a spray wax as a QD, just might little a little more buffing. You can also use products that are a kind of half-way house. I think products like Zaino Z8 Grand Finale are a hybrid. They are a sealant and a glossifier, and a QD when diluted. you could also use a solution of Permanon. True QDs will have some sort of lubricant in them to prevent swirls and a detergent to remove light dust.


Wheel cleaners

There are number of types of these, the old fashioned acid ones and the newer more gentle ones. The acid ones are OK for wheels in good condition, but any damage will allow the acid to penetrate and could make the wheel go porous. It best to use the more modern types with a microfibre cloth or soft wheel brush. When detailing your car its wise not to forget the wheels. Give them a polish and coating of wax or sealant, but be aware that most waxes wont last that long on wheels. Synthetics are best and there are a few dedicated wheel sealants. The Nano and ceramics are great for wheels, they tend to keep them clean for a lot longer. Brake dust should just hose off.

Wonder Wheels is acidic, and best avoided to be honest (although if does work). Valet Pro Bilberry wheel cleaner is alkaline, so wont atttack the alloy. It might dull some soft paints, but its pretty safe. the best wheel brushes bar none are Wheel Woolies! Not cheap at all at about £35-40 for the 3 pack of 3 sizes, but they really are good.


Trim Products

These come in a number of forms. The most common type are the simple oily/silicone coatings that act a bit like chip fat making chip paper go clear. Any faded trim or rubber look instantly better and somewhat glossy. These dont tend to last very long though. Back to Black is the classic. Some people use things like linseed oil or even peanut butter, which basically do the same thing, but natural oils can go rancid, peanut butter especially isnt recommended...
More advanced ones contain silicon oxide that plates the trim. These tend to be more natural looking and last longer on most trim types. CarPro PERL is a great example of that and very economical.
Even more advanced products are available that are similar to the nano/ceramic coatings that exist for paintwork. Some of the specialist coatings can be used on trim, Ceramishield is an example. These will do the same thing they will for paint, last years and repel water strongly.



Accessories

There are some essentials needed in car care. Microfibre cloths are the new stockingette. Never use anything else for removing waxes and sealants unless they specifically say so. Get one of two good quality ones for removing your top coats.
Unless told otherwise always use a foam pad for applying waxes and sealants, unless they are spray on types. The Nano and ceramic products usually need a cotton wood pad or a peach skin microfibre pad for application. Dont use a cloth, it wastes product and can lead to swirls. Foam pads vary in density. The hardest ones are good for compounds and polishes, the soft ones good for waxes and sealants.

IPA (rubbing alcohol, or Isopropanol) is handy to have around. Its basically cassette head cleaning fluid or the stuff in injection swabs. It removes oils and waxes, so is good for removing waxes that are ingrained into plastic trim. Its also used as a full body wipe down product prior to ceramic or nano coatings. Its also great for cleaning glass, and refreshing a ceramic or nano coating (it wont remove them).
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Last edited by rovexCDTi; 7th September 2012 at 11:28..
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