5 Step proccess correct?

[Legacy51]

Alright I've finally completed my Meguiars collection....

As soon as a I get a chance I plan on doing the following steps:

1. Wash with NXT wash

2. Clean paint with ScratchX

3. Wash again with NXT

4. Apply #7 Show Car Glaze

5. 2 layers of NXT

The only concerns I had are with my paint cleaner...I wasn't sure if ScratchX was the best one. Unfortunatly it was the only paint cleaner from Megs I could find.

Secondly I know I've skipped clay barring my car but I don't have too much experience with a clay bar and don't wanna risk the quality of my paint just yet...

I really want to use a PC, but I've never really used one before so I'm scared that I'll ruin my paint somehow...

Other than that am I good to go as far as the steps are concerned?

[Boss_429]

Legacy51,

I would replace your step#2 with a dedicated paint cleaner like Deep Crystal paint cleaner or similar. The ScratchX is a good isolated swirl/defect remover, but IMHO, not really something you want to use on the entire vehicle. Save it for cleaning up some nasty swirls/scratches.

You really shouldn't be afraid of the clay. If you use an ample amount of a good lubricant, you should have any problems. The Meguiar's Quik Clay package is a nice one. The clay is very mild, and doesn't leave a lot of residue behind.

You probably don't need to wash again after the paint cleaner. A quick but thorough wipe-down with a good QD should be all you need before you use your glaze. Sometimes after claying, some people like to wash again to remove any remaining clay residue.

There is no reason to be afraid of the PC. It is almost foolproof. Now, a rotary buffer is a different story........... that takes a little practice. I've been teaching my 14 year old nephew how to detail, and he is having no problems at all using the PC............ it's that easy.

Hope this helps, and good luck with your vehicle.

[Legacy51]

Thanks for the info Boss

I kinda had a feeling that ScratchX wasn't the best...I'll do some hunting around town to see what I can find other than that

Also, may I inquire as to where you got your PC from? I've tried finding one EVERYWHERE, but no stores in my area (within a 50 miles raidus) have it.

[Boss_429]

Legacy51,

First, you are welcome.

Secondly, don't get me wrong on the ScratchX, it is a good product, just not something I would use to clean/polish the entire vehicle.

I got my PC on-line at CoastalTools. There are a number of good places to get them on-line, including Meguiar's version of the PC (called G-100 dual action polisher). I've seen the PC ( both the 7424, and the 7336 ) at both Home Depot, and Lowes.

Not sure where you are located, but you might want to try any of the home improvement centers.

[gb387]

I second the PC, easy to use and nothing to worry about even on black!

If you do buy it locally you will need to get the backing plate kit from Meguiars. Here is it:

DA Velcro Buffing System

[Legacy51]

Alright I will check out some home improvement places...didn't even think about that

Thanks for your help guys!!

Also I have managed to grab myself a bottle of the Deep Crystal Paint Cleaner so that takes care of that problem. Took some deep hunting, but I got one!

[benhui86]

i have to use scratch X on my whole truck b/c the whole thing needed some work from my noob detailing swirl removal experimentations w/ TURTLE WAX RUBBING COMPOUND!!

well at least half the thing is back to great shape.... still got the bed to go..... i think i'll do taht during the break

[Mike Phillips]

Originally posted by Legacy51
Thanks for the info Boss

I kinda had a feeling that ScratchX wasn't the best...I'll do some hunting around town to see what I can find other than that

Also, may I inquire as to where you got your PC from? I've tried finding one EVERYWHERE, but no stores in my area (within a 50 miles raidus) have it.

Hi Legacy51,

Just to chime in here,

Starting today and running through the rest of this month Meguiar's is offering a special promotion for our forum members here,

G-100 Forum Special!

Also, ScratchX can be used for touch-up areas or over the entire finish, here's what the label copy on the back of the ScratchX reads,



While it's a personal preference which paint cleaner to use and I completely respect Boss_429's preference, each Saturday at our Detailing Classes I show people how to use ScratchX over the entire car if the car's finish needs swirls and scratches removed.

Mike

[Legacy51]

Hmm...I see


I think what I might do is use SX in conjunction with DCPC...like scrub it down with the DCPC and touch up the areas needing SX.

Does that sound good or too abrasive to mix the two?