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First Detail - Ford Focus

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  • #1

    First Detail - Ford Focus

    Hi All. I've got a fairly new Focus sedan (bought May 2003) And I'm planning on doing a bit of a detail job to it. It's only ever been waxed once (and even then it wasn't a good job, and all i did was wash then wax...) So I'm looking for some advice as to what kind of steps I should go through. I've got a lot of swirl marks on it, and water spots a bit as well.. (not to mention some spots to use touch up paint... stupid rocks!) I've got a few pics here of when I washed it... doesn't really show any up close details though..



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  • #2
    Hey,

    Welcome to Meguiar's Online!!

    How will you be applying the products? By Hand, or PC?

    Tim
    Tim Lingor's Product Reviews

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    • #3
      Well, I'd like to do it with a PC, although I don't have one yet. I've never used one either... I'm worried I might screw up my paint job with my inexperience. Most likely I'll be working by hand...

      Whenever I wash my car, it looks great, but I'm always seeing those swirl marks and it bugs the hell out of me. after coming on here and seeing what some of you guys have done with your finishes, I feel like i'm punishing my car by not making her look as sexy as possible.

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      • #4
        Hey,

        Firstly, you have to try really hard to screw up the paint with a PC!

        Secondly, if you are doing it by hand, you have to work quite hard to get the swirls out.

        The first thing to try is ColorX on a test spot. Apply it in side to side motion, and really work the product. Be sure to apply and remove with either a 100% cotton Terry Towel or a good quality MF towel like Meguiar's Ultimate Wipe. Cheap towels can add towel marks!

        If the ColorX removes the water spots and reduces the swirls(again, some swirls may be too deep and will require a machine to remove), then continue on with the whole car.

        Follow the ColorX with the application and removal of #81 Hand Polish. I really love this product on dark colours!! Then top with 2 coats of NXT Tech Wax (which is hard to find in Canada thus far) or #20 Polymer Sealant, then remove. Wait overnight for the Polymer to set-up and top with #26 Hi-Tech Wax. I know you will LOVE the results!!

        Keep us posted!!

        Tim
        Tim Lingor's Product Reviews

        Comment

        • #5
          Thanks for the tips. I was under the impression that a machine like this was not a good idea in the hands of the inexperienced. I may just go pick one up this weekend. I would assume most hardware stores would carry this?

          Which brings me to another question... I went to Lordco last night to see what kind of selection they had.. they had SOME good stuff that i've seen here, but not a great selection.. plus, I wouldn't go anywhere near the pads and towels etc they sell. Do you know of any good places I might be able to find a good selection of quality stuff (not online) I'm not getting anywhere with the yellow pages.

          Thanks
          -Nick

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          • #6
            Hey,

            As for the PC, you will want to get either the 7424 (5" counter-weight) or the 7336 (6" counter-weight). I have had no problems with the 7424 and I have owned it since the first day they went on the market. You will need to phone around and get the best price. You will probably find one for ~ $229.00 Can. The PC is very safe. It mimics your hand motions but at a very high speed. The PC is FAR better than a regular orbital.

            The rotary buffer on the other hand is one that takes a lot of experience and practice. It can cause damage pretty quickly if not in the hands of someone experienced in using one.

            You will also need a Meguiar's backing plate and pads. The plate part # is W-64DA. You will also need:

            1 of W-9006 Finishing Pads
            2 of W-8006 Polishing pads

            This will get you started.

            I live in the Okanagn so I can not suggest any other stores in Vancouver besides the various Lordco outlets. Lordco usually has two sections, a general one with the basic products and a body shop area where they have the pads, backing plates and various Professional and Body Shop Series of products. Most of the time, if you talk to one of the guys at the counter, they will give you a little better pricing than their marked price.

            I hope this helps!

            Tim
            Tim Lingor's Product Reviews

            Comment

            • #7
              Thanks 2hotford, you've been very helpful. Canadian Tire has the 7424 for $239, but I'll bet I can find it cheaper. I have a friend who works for a car parts supplier (lodrco's supplier) so perhaps I'll be giving her a call...

              Comment

              • #8
                Hey Nick,

                You are very welcome! If you have any other questions, please ask!

                Do not forget to post some "after" pictures!

                Tim
                Tim Lingor's Product Reviews

                Comment

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