What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

[Andrew C.]

Well I have found that a lot of the times that I am using NXT or M21 that I run into it streaking/smearing after waiting a half hour. I find it doing this even after an hour or so.

This has become a nuisance when detailing others' cars because I can't wait forever for the wax to dry. What wax do you guys use and do you ever have this same problem. I was thinking trying M20 as an alternative?

[Bounty]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

Well I have found that a lot of the times that I am using NXT or M21 that I run into it streaking/smearing after waiting a half hour. I find it doing this even after an hour or so.

This has become a nuisance when detailing others' cars because I can't wait forever for the wax to dry. What wax do you guys use and do you ever have this same problem. I was thinking trying M20 as an alternative?

I have found (and hundreds of posters across many forums confirm) NXT is very sensitive to temperature, humidity, lubricating oils on the paint surface, and a host of other possible hindrances to a quick streak-free application. I like to use it on customer's cars but always carry some Meguiar's Gold Class or Pinnacle SSII in case conditions take an unforseen turn and I know it'll screw with the correct drying process. As a side note, the paste version of NXT does perform a bit better under adverse weather conditions than the liquid...

[Murr1525]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

Also, what kind of things are you using to prep the paint?

#20 being a mild cleaner/wax can help.....

Also, Tim (2hotford) has said that a paste wax can help if you are in damp temperatures?

[Markus Kleis]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

I keep M20 on hand. It's super easy on/off and looks great.

[Andrew C.]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

Also, what kind of things are you using to prep the paint?

#20 being a mild cleaner/wax can help.....

Also, Tim (2hotford) has said that a paste wax can help if you are in damp temperatures?

Well it depends on what exactly I'm doing for each customer on paint prep, it will either be clay/correction work/wax, or just straight wax after the wash. I don't really live in a damp place. I'm in So cal, but I have used 21 a ton and have ran into this problem numerous times with customers, but I normally never run into it on my own cars because I'll put the wax on and then go get lunch or do something else. It is mainly just the timing issue.

I think I'll try using M20 as mark said its easy on and off :xyxthumsb

[Murr1525]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

It might be that your paint is already in good shape as well.

Using a cleaner/wax could help if you arent doing any other work.

[Markus Kleis]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

Andrew, I noticed that if the surface of the car is hot, or even overly warm from sun exposure the M21 can streak (not always, but it does sometimes).

I don't think I can recall a time when I worked on a car in the suggested temperature range in a closed garage and had the streaking. It only seems to rear its ugly head with a hot or humid surface/environment.

M20 is good stuff though. If you want to leave hydrophobic polymers too, you could do the M205 and either use some UQW during removal, or right after the removal of the M20.

[Andrew C.]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

M20 is good stuff though. If you want to leave hydrophobic polymers too, you could do the M205 and either use some UQW during removal, or right after the removal of the M20.

If only they came out with that gallon size! haha

[RamAirV1]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

I've never had the NXT 2.0 Paste streak for me, even in warm humid weather. The #20 applies and removes easily also, and never streaks, whether it's hot and humid or cold and damp. It also gives great reflectivity and lasts a long time!

RamAirV1

[jfelbab]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

M21 (2.0) I apply a very thin to a cool surface and be sure to let it dry. If streaking is evident, then a quick QD will clean off any excess oils.

[akimel]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

Andrew, I know you are an experienced detailer, so excuse my presumption in asking this question: Is it possible that you are applying M21 too thick? This might account for the long drying time you are experiencing, as well as the streaking. Are you applying it by hand? I know that some prefer to apply NXT/M21 by DA because they find it easier to apply a thin coat that way.

[Mike Phillips]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

Be sure to follow the basics,

Thin coats
Allow wax to fully dry before removing


Then after you remove the wax, give the paint a final wipe using slow wiping speeds/motions....

Final Wiping Techniques

[Andrew C.]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

I think it may have been a combo of applying it a bit too thick and maybe somewhat to a non-prepped surface. I wish I could do a fully prepped surface, but not all people always want that. Thinking back to it I have only had it streak when I had to apply it later in the day and it was cloudy/damp out and starting to get dark. I think I may have also done too fast of a final wipe to try to save time.

I'll keep in mind to apply thinner next time. Sometimes ya just get carried away I guess

[Markus Kleis]

Re: What wax do you use? A problem with NXT/21

One more tip: after you think you have removed everything, go grab a 100% clean, fresh towel and go around the vehicle one more time. I find that grabs any little bit of leftover oils or haze from any product fairly well.