The cleaner waxes; what are the differences, when to use each?

[mopar]

endurance rocks.sprya are ok if you are in a hurry.you could also spray the tire shine onto an pllicator and then apply it ;et it set up and then lightly buff it that should take care of the slinging

[TCMach]

Slats,

Is DC Sys Polish a good starter polish? I'm pretty new to the detailing world...always been a off-shelf wax type, but want to keep this auto pristine. So really want to make sure I do what ever the normal prep is prior to the wax.

Mike gave me a good start and will go that route...but didn't see any mention of a polish. I'm also confused on the diff between polish, glaze, and cleaners...depending on where you do research, they sound really close to the same thing...?

Thanks for the info -- TC

[Slats]

It's very confusing to see all the names of different polishes, waxes, and cleaners. I get confused. Mike's post really outlined the different products well, so I will reffer to that. Basically what I've learned (I think other here would agree) is that the more steps you take, generally you will get better results. For example Meguiar's one step Cleaner/Wax is a great product but won't acheive the results the three step DC system will. I've learned from experience not to skip steps. I always clay before waxing and if I had a darker vehicle I would probably polish as well. To answer your question, I think DC #2 Polish is probably a great product to get started with. It is in the consumer line and designed to be applied by hand. However, Meg's make other good polishes as well. Also glaze and polish are used interchangably -- same thing. Cleaners generally only clean and provide no protection (such as DC #1). Polishes are mearly meant to deepen color and gloss. The most important part is the protective wax, but it's important to properly prep the surface before waxing. Hope this helps and good luck detailing your new car!

Slats

[Mosca]

Originally posted by TCMach
I'm also confused on the diff between polish, glaze, and cleaners...?
[/B]

Hehe.

There is no standardization of those terms. What one mfr calls "polish", another will call "glaze"; what one mfr calls "cleaner", another will call "polish". And then another manufacturer will refer to "sealant/glaze"! WTH is THAT?

Inside Meguiar's line, It's cleaners, polishes, glazes, and waxes. Cleaners do the heavy work, polishes do the light work, glazes beautify, and waxes protect.

The DC Step 2 is actually a nice glaze, as good in its own way as the professional glazes. There are no noticeable concessions made appearance wise, and it's much easier to use than a product like #7.

Think of the products as liquid tools, and then you can start to understand. All wrenches look alike to a casual observer, but you need a Whitworth set to work on an old BSA. Same with the liquids. Cleaner waxes have their place, even for the dedicated perfectionist. sometimes the car won't NEED what a 3-step can deliver, but WILL need more than another coat of protection!


Tom

[rusty bumper]

Originally posted by TCMach
Slats,

Is DC Sys Polish a good starter polish? I'm pretty new to the detailing world...always been a off-shelf wax type, but want to keep this auto pristine. So really want to make sure I do what ever the normal prep is prior to the wax.

Thanks for the info -- TC

Deep Crystal Polish is more suited for dark, clear coat finishes...But it can be used on light colored or single stage paints too.

[TCMach]

Thanks for the replies...So you guys would suggest for starting with a new auto Mike's steps plus possibly a polish?

1) Wash
2) Clay
3) Wash
4) Polish w/#1
5) NXT Wax, coats as desired w/12-24 hrs between coats

Glaze #2 maybe not required?

Wheels and Rims per Mike's instructions.

Again, thanks for the help.

TC

[rusty bumper]

Originally posted by TCMach
Thanks for the replies...So you guys would suggest for starting with a new auto Mike's steps plus possibly a polish?

1) Wash
2) Clay
3) Wash
4) Polish w/#1
5) NXT Wax, coats as desired w/12-24 hrs between coats

Glaze #2 maybe not required?

Wheels and Rims per Mike's instructions.

Again, thanks for the help.

TC

If it was my car, I would probably use DC #2 polish...At least on the horizontal surfaces.

Horizontal areas catch the most sun, and are most subject to the paint drying out 1st. According to Meguiars, their polishes nourish the paint...Like the way lotion nourishes our skin.

[Slats]

Here are the basic steps I'd reccomend:

1) Wash wheels, tires, wheel-wells
2) Clean engine if needed
3) Wash car and dry
4) Clay
5) Polish with DC #2
6) Apply 1 thin coat of quality wax
7) Detail trim and shine tires

Note: No need to wash again after claying. If any residue exists, just use Quick Detailer and a clean towel and wipe the car down.

Also, I highly recommend Endurance tire gel and Trim Detailer as finishing touches.

And remember, no need to apply multiple coats of wax, as it can build up if you use to many. One thin coat will suffice -- any more than that will just need to be buffed off and will be wasted. However, you can rub in as much polish as you'd like.

Hope this helps ya!

Slats

[mopar]

nobody should be without the endurance tire gel .but dont you think it would be better to apply 2 thin coats 12 to 24 hours apart that way you can be shure that you have even coverage and havnt missed any spots .i would apply it right after each other yuo gotta let it cure.