Opinions on Chamois leathers ?

[thedoc46]

Hi,

What are the pro's opinions on chamois leathers ? Do they add to swirls ? Do you guys use them? I've been using them for 25yrs, and they seem to do a great job in wiping up the water after a wash. I did try a synthetic one, but was left less than impressed.

Though i've only ever been a recreational car washer.. In that i love a clean car, but have never clayed or polished.. Only washed and waxed. but all that is changing..

I've just purchased a clay kit and will be claying, polishing and then waxing my car.. I'm now switching to the two bucket system, and instead of a sponge, i'll be using a micro fiber mitt. (supposedly better right ?)

I'm also looking at my options in a oribital powered device, probably the DA Power system, my only gripe is that it's going to be hard doing the roofs of the cars, and holding a drill upright. But I guess i could do those by hand and make life easier.

TBH i find it therapeutic.

[irvs]

Re: Opinions on Chamois leathers ?

Disclaimer I am not a pro - purely weekend warrior.

In my minimal experience of using them I have found they can instill small scratches when the water is absorbed but some remaining dirt/contaminant is still on the paint. I use a damp microfiber towel with a drying lubricant. I have started using a damp waffle weave 16' long which is handy for the roof of my XC 90 (even at 6'4" it is a challenge to get that whole roof). As far as I am concerned the 2 bucket method and MF mitt is the way to go. I recently got the GG 6" and am loving it. I think the benefit of using the full DA far outweighs any cost savings with the DA power system.

I agree it is very therapeutic!

[Blueline]

Re: Opinions on Chamois leathers ?

In my opinion those leather chamois are old school. If your car has been clayed, polished, and well waxed, take the nozzle off the hose and rinse the car gently from the top down. The water will sheet off and what is left you can dry with a Kleenex (almost) With a similarly waxed car, you can blow it dry with a the blower option on a shop vac, or even a leaf blower and use a Kleenex. The less you touch the body, especially with a leather cloth, the less chance of a scratch.
As for the DA System, it is a dandy tool, for spot fixes. I think it would be very tiring to do an entire car with one. The roof is difficult to do, and I must admit I probably do my worse work there but if any wants to take the time to look for a flaw in my roof, it is their problem, not mine. Outta sight, outta mind.

[The Guz]

Re: Opinions on Chamois leathers ?

Definitely upgrade your drying media. Waffle weave or a plush towel would be the way to go.