Mini-external detail question

[Clutch34]

Winters don't get too bad here in Texas, but I do want my car to be protected prior to a little (if any) snow and bad weather. I plan on claying the car for sure (since I've never done that before) and want to wax it (hasn't been done either).

My question is, do I need to apply any cleaner to it before waxing? I do have a lot of swirls, but I don't think I want to get into fixing that until spring when I order a DA -- I don't think I have the patience (or time) to do that whole car by hand! lol

Will I be ok with wash, clay, wax (x2) till spring?

Thanks.

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Mini-external detail question

There's nothing that says you must use a paint cleaner prior to waxing, but it's not a bad idea if you've never done it before. Of course, if you plan on picking up a G110v2 soon and/or have no inclination to do this work by hand, you aren't going to hurt anything by waiting.

As an alternative, however, you might want to consider using a good cleaner wax such as ColorX and then topping that with something like NXT Generation Tech Wax 2.0. That will give you some good prep cleaning and two coats of wax prior to winter.

[Clutch34]

Re: Mini-external detail question

Ok cool, I do have some ColorX and NXT 2.0 at home.

Here's another question I had forgotten to mention in my earlier post: I know cleaners are abrasive at varying levels, but if not applied with passion, do they do anything?

Cleaning the paint means to remove swirls, oxidation, water spots, etc. - but that requires passion. If I apply a cleaner like a wax (very light pressure), is it cleaning the paint or would I just be using it as a polish at this point?

[Murr1525]

Re: Mini-external detail question

Clay, ColorX, and Nxt is definately a great combo.

Cleaning also involves removing dirt from the pores of the paint. Even applied lightly, you can achieve that.

[Clutch34]

Re: Mini-external detail question

Cleaning also involves removing dirt from the pores of the paint. Even applied lightly, you can achieve that.

Perfect, exactly what I wanted to know! Thanks.

[Murr1525]

Re: Mini-external detail question

Probably should mention you'll get best results if you at least work it in a little... but no need to go all out like swirl removal.