Quick Question about Cleaners

[alexr]

Hey guys, first post, been reading around the forums for a few weeks and just got my first package from Rick at ADS today. Another one is coming tomorrow.

I am wondering if it is in any way a risk to use SwirlX or any of the other new products (SMAT) constantly (few times a year max) on my cars or if I will see problems down the road because of paint loss and clear coat failure. I understand the theory that you should use the least aggressive product to get the job done, but in general by using these products over time, can any problems occur down the road?

Thanks!

[Murr1525]

Re: Quick Question about Cleaners

If you are referring to SwirlX, then yes, you can apply it a few times a year with no problems. Also, remember that with the SMAT products you can apply them gently or more passionately to adjust the aggressiveness also. So if the car is in good shape, it will only need applied gently as well.

Now, something like UC which is very aggressive you would not really want to be using a few times a year every year on your car. But if you are causing that much damage on a regular basis, something else needs solved.

[the_invisible]

Re: Quick Question about Cleaners

In theory, using heavy polishes will make the clear coat become thin.
However a MOL user by the name Superior Shine has demonstrated in the following thread that there's negligible change in clear coat/paint thickness by simply using something very aggressive such as Diamond Cut and a W7000 pad.

http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4013

[alexr]

Re: Quick Question about Cleaners

That was pretty much what I was thinking, I read that thread before I actually posted this one. These are light colored cars that should do fine with SwirlX or ColorX after I get them looking good enough for me. I just don't want to worry that I am in some way hurting the finish of my car so that down the road (earlier than normal) I will have to worry about repainting them.

Given, if I have my car by the time that happens, I will be surprised.

Sounds like it really depends on how hard the paint is. I am not, however, too interested in purchasing a paint thickness reader just to see that I am not doing anything .

By the way, I shouldn't have any worries with the ColorX/Cleaner Wax AIOs right? I have UC just in case I need to get a deep scratch out, you guys will probably have a new product out by the time I use it :p. I just would rather be safe then end up with a $2000 paint job down the road.

[the_invisible]

Re: Quick Question about Cleaners

Are you working with a rotary tool or a very aggressive pad? Otherwise you have nothing to worry.

There's always the ScratchX 2.0, which is just one scale less aggressive than UC, but more aggressive than SwirlX.

[alexr]

Re: Quick Question about Cleaners

I have a rotary, but I don't believe I am experienced enough with it to try to use it. I at some point may get a DA if I find that I need one. But at this point it is only by hand.

[Murr1525]

Re: Quick Question about Cleaners

Yeah, a rotary can burn through paint with any kind of product used.

Best to get a panel from a junkyard to practice on.