Any advice?

[GreeceLightning]

Here are pics from my latest clean.

I used the two bucket method with GC shampoo, , then clay, then GC wax.

I know I could have used scratch X as well but time was a factor.

I am reasonably pleased with the results from a distance, but up close isn't as good. So was hoping for some advice, I know some of you have flawless looking motors and I'm looking to get mine closer to that look.

Thanks

[Jorge Sanchez]

If time is an issue use a cleaner wax instead. I'd recommend using the Color X. Color X cleans, polishes and protects in one step. I've used this on numerous cars that where new, but had minor defects and was able to repair the finish to 99%. WOW love the CTR!

[GreeceLightning]

Originally posted by Jorge Sanchez
WOW love the CTR!

Thanks mate! It's the first performance car I've owned so I thought I may as well make it a good 'un

What do you think for the wheels? I don't have any pics of them right now but they do have some very stubborn break dust stains that Hot Rims refuses to shift.

[Murr1525]

ColorX topped with a pure wax is fantastic, and a great time saver. I have used it with Nxt and #21, and Gold Class should be very nice for you.

Not having used a paint cleaner might have been a little bit of the problem. ColorX will solve that nicely for you. Though it might be called Colour Boost in your area.

You can clay wheels as well, AFTER the paint of course.. dont reuse clay from your wheels/exhaust on paint. That might help some.

And you can use something like Nxt Metal Polish if they are just metal rims, or ScratchX can be used on clearcoated ones.

I assume you agitated the Hot Rims some?

[jmakado]

Your rims are most likely clearcoated. That being said, I would skip the metal polish and go with a good brush and the Hot Rims wheel cleaner you have. I like to wet the wheels first, spray on the cleaner, let it sit for 15 seconds or so, hit them with the brush, and then spray them off. I have never come across a set of cleared wheels that wouldn't come clean. Don't forget to dry them after with a terry towel or whatever you like. Waxing the wheels on my car makes them look great until I get in a day of hard braking. The wheels get hot enough that I think it just melts the wax off. Unless you are showing your car, waxing the wheels is not worth it in my opinion.

Black is a tough color to get looking perfect but well worth it when it comes out how you want it. I assume you are doing everything by hand. I have had good luck using #7 followed by GC wax. The #7 doesn't do anything to get rid of fine scratches but does do a good job of masking them. Once you get a DA polisher you will have a much better chance getting rid of swirls/scratches rather than just hiding them. The car looks good though! Just keep at it.