Car Detailing - What products are your go to?

[Top_Ghia]

What are we all using for fingerprints on touchscreens? Are you using a touch of glass cleaner? IPA? Damp microfiber towel?

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by Top_Ghia

What are we all using for fingerprints on touchscreens? Are you using a touch of glass cleaner? IPA? Damp microfiber towel?

Damp towel or a glass cleaner damp towel should be all you need.

[DFB FGXR6]

Certainly not one of his regular viewers, so I had to force myself to watch this............



Will be interesting to see how this "pans" out. He has made a fortune in promoting brands and products, either a paid or off his own bat. So now that he will be promoting his own products, will he see a drop off in viewers and subscribers? No doubt the products will be good, he insists this won't be a white label endeavor, think Detail Geek or Patterson Car Care. But engaging with viewers that are looking for product and brand recommendations is different from advertising your own line of products. This will be a double-sided risk to his income, from YouTube revenue side of things, but also the financial risk associated with the commission of chemists, manufacturing, distributing and marketing a ground-up brand. I guess they call him Pan the Advertiser for a reason.

In my eyes, he lost me with some of the antics he played on Autogeek. He would drop into the video section, post an embedded link to his latest video, then disappeared with no engagement whatsoever. Actually, he did engage, but only when someone questioned this behavior or critiqued his video, where he would become quite rude. Many started to call him out for this, in the end he disappeared.

The same thing happens with another YouTuber under the Stauffer Garage name. Difference here being he was already selling a line of products, so his video drops were two-fold, to boost his YouTube revenue and sell product. He also sells training sessions on how to monetize a YouTube channel. Actually, looking at that line of products, it appears to have run its course.

https://www.foxclean.com/
https://www.foxclean.com/collections/training-courses

In both cases, I'm not begrudging these two for selling product or promoting their "brand identity". My problem lies in how they conduct themselves among their peers by lobbing a video, then p.ssing off with no engagement or contribution to the community. They are not there providing insight, answering questions or helping others. I get it, their outlet is via video and not a forum. But again, don't post the video if you have no interest in the forum format.

My 43 cents.

[stannoplan]

Originally Posted by Top_Ghia

What are we all using for fingerprints on touchscreens? Are you using a touch of glass cleaner? IPA? Damp microfiber towel?

Once a week, a quick go over with Inner QD or Gyeons Quick Detailer and MF cloth. Both super simple, safe on everything inside and a nice scent as well. I find it good for piano blacks as well.

[FTE217]

I know its a hassle but being the anal person I am I use the touch pens with the rubber tip OR use voice command.
Also depends on the marque you drive from experience.

[Mulva]

Not sure if they are suitable but I grabbed large handful of the screen-wipes from work used to clean computer monitors. Seem to do a good job.

[bangm001]

Anyone used this? https://www.waxit.com.au/products/mt...KdfkOp4.MeSg3g

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by bangm001

Anyone used this? https://www.waxit.com.au/products/mt...KdfkOp4.MeSg3g

It's better than most, just don't expect "foam", think soapy water.

[DFB FGXR6]

Armour Detail Supply Amplify!

Going by the reviews prior to its launch in Australia, I knew this stuff was going to be good. Within a few seconds of trying it, I could see why Amplify has become so popular.

https://autobuff.com.au/products/arm...l&_ss=e&_v=1.0
https://detailingshed.com.au/product...44857484050647



Termed a Si02 Detailer, Amplify it can be used in multiple applications. I've mostly been using it as a drying aid, but its also great for door jambs, engine bays, wheels, glass and trim. Amplify is also worth using to protect a freshly applied ceramic coating while it cures within the first 10 - 14 days.

What sets Amplify apart is the stupid easy application. Often, Si02 ceramic sprays can be somewhat streaky and require a little more patience. Amplify is more in line with a traditional quick detailer in that is spreads and flashes away without excessive towel work.

As a drying aid, I prime the towel with a few sprays, then one or two per panel. It's then wiped to a streak free finish, often without a secondary towel. Simple as that.





To cap off its performance, the delightful scent seals the deal.

Simply put, I can't get enough of this stuff!

[Top_Ghia]

So it flogs products like Boost V1 and V2?

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by Top_Ghia

So it flogs products like Boost V1 and V2?

If we are talking protection, then yes and no -

Boost v1 - protection till the next wash.
Boost v2 - 3 to 6-months protection
Amplify - 2-months protection

If we are talking user experience, Amplify easily smashes both versions of Boost. It easier to achieve a streak free finish than v1 and v2, it feels slicker and appears glossier than Boost v1. Neither of the Boost twins have a scent easier.

[FTE217]

What about Bead and Dream Maker comparo with the above DFB ?

Using whatever drying aid on white I hardly notice streaky/cloud after wiping down whereas hey on the black Sprint pretty obvious.

I am yet to use the Amplify I've bought, maybe this weekend I'll give it a go.

[Top_Ghia]

You had me at slicker and glossier.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by Top_Ghia

You had me at slicker and glossier.

Originally Posted by FTE217

What about Bead and Dream Maker comparo with the above DFB ?

I HATE Dream Maker, actually scratch that, I DESPISE Dream Maker! Its only palatable when mixed with Bead Maker to create Clean Maker.

In terms of Bead Maker, not much comes close to it for gloss and slickness, and that includes ADS Amplify. But, you have to work for it, Bead Maker requiring added towel work to deliver a streak free finish and certainly does hold onto dust (I hesitate to say it attracts dust, it doesn't actually attract it so much as hold onto it). You won't be disappointed with either Bead Maker or Amplify, they impress in different ways.

[bfets]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

I HATE Dream Maker, actually scratch that, I DESPISE Dream Maker! Its only palatable when mixed with Bead Maker to create Clean Maker.

In terms of Bead Maker, not much comes close to it for gloss and slickness, and that includes ADS Amplify. But, you have to work for it, Bead Maker requiring added towel work to deliver a streak free finish and certainly does hold onto dust (I hesitate to say it attracts dust, it doesn't actually attract it so much as hold onto it). You won't be disappointed with either Bead Maker or Amplify, they impress in different ways.

How does Amplify compare with Obsessed Garage Drying Aid DFB?

[FTE217]

DFB yer bead maker works.
Re dream is because I got it but didn’t like it and you’ve confirmed why Thanks.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by bfets

How does Amplify compare with Obsessed Garage Drying Aid DFB?

I was waiting for that question. But first, a little back story.

OG Drying Aid came about after Matt started to experience some of the drawbacks of Bead Maker. After sampling and liking a product called Xtreme Solutions Topper, he contacted the company to enquire about selling it in his store. Matt asked where the product came from, as in was it their own product or a white label product, he was told Topper was manufactured by Xtreme Solutions and was their own chemistry. A follower reached out and informed Matt that Topper was called Slipstream and was manufactured and bottled by B&B Blending, so they were lying to him.

From there, Matt worked with B&B Blending, who were already making the Decon Soap and Tire Dressing for him, where they removed the scent and color to improve stability. The product is then supplied in huge totes and bottled at OG.

The key reason why he swapped from Bead Maker to Slipstream was it delivered most of the Bead Maker gloss and slickness, but with an easier application and less dust accumulation.

I mention all of that to put some context to my reply. Both OG Drying Aid (Slipstream) and Bead Maker are polymer sealants. While Bead Maker is not known for its longevity, let's say about a month, OG Drying Aid is more substantial and will do 2 to 3 months. Actually, Adam's Slick and Slide (also Slipstream) was not recommended for use a drying aid. They have since revised that.

In use, OG Drying Aid is certainly easier to use than Bead Maker and delivers almost the same gloss and slickness. The lack of scent is a downer, but I can see why they went that path.





Amplify is on par with OG Drying Aid for gloss and slickness, but its even easier to apply. Amplify is said to last about two months, which in my mind suggests it will be more suitable for regular use as a drying aid.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by FTE217

DFB yer bead maker works.
Re dream is because I got it but didn’t like it and you’ve confirmed why Thanks.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

If you want to use up the Dream Maker, cut it with Bead Maker to make what they call Clean Maker.

The suggested Bead Maker to Dream Maker ratio is 10:1. At this mixture, the predominant scent is of Dream Maker, which is strange considering the heavy Bead Maker content. This removes that horrible smeariness of Dream Maker.

[bfets]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

I was waiting for that question. But first, a little back story.



OG Drying Aid came about after Matt started to experience some of the drawbacks of Bead Maker. After sampling and liking a product called Xtreme Solutions Topper, he contacted the company to enquire about selling it in his store. Matt asked where the product came from, as in was it their own product or a white label product, he was told Topper was manufactured by Xtreme Solutions and was their own chemistry. A follower reached out and informed Matt that Topper was called Slipstream and was manufactured and bottled by B&B Blending, so they were lying to him.



From there, Matt worked with B&B Blending, who were already making the Decon Soap and Tire Dressing for him, where they removed the scent and color to improve stability. The product is then supplied in huge totes and bottled at OG.



The key reason why he swapped from Bead Maker to Slipstream was it delivered most of the Bead Maker gloss and slickness, but with an easier application and less dust accumulation.



I mention all of that to put some context to my reply. Both OG Drying Aid (Slipstream) and Bead Maker are polymer sealants. While Bead Maker is not known for its longevity, let's say about a month, OG Drying Aid is more substantial and will do 2 to 3 months. Actually, Adam's Slick and Slide (also Slipstream) was not recommended for use a drying aid. They have since revised that.



In use, OG Drying Aid is certainly easier to use than Bead Maker and delivers almost the same gloss and slickness. The lack of scent is a downer, but I can see why they went that path.



image



image



Amplify is on par with OG Drying Aid for gloss and slickness, but its even easier to apply. Amplify is said to last about two months, which in my mind suggests it will be more suitable for regular use as a drying aid.

Thanks DFB.
I've heard some of that story. I think he also removed the coloring because he noticed some staining after removing a bumper on a Tesla I believe.
I've heard him say he doesn't want to make his own products and would drop them in an instant should he find something better. Maybe Amplify replaces the OG drying aid when Matt tries it!

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by bfets

Thanks DFB.
I've heard some of that story. I think he also removed the coloring because he noticed some staining after removing a bumper on a Tesla I believe.

I've noticed the Ethos and Adam's version stain the bottle, so it's removal has merit. And yes, the pink colouring of Topper did stain bottles and underneath the body kit he added to that Tesla.

I've heard him say he doesn't want to make his own products and would drop them in an instant should he find something better. Maybe Amplify replaces the OG drying aid when Matt tries it!

Earlier in the year, he went through reassessing his lineup of products, trying bunch of new products suggested by his peers. ADS Amplify was one of those, he immediately dismissed it. He quite rightly did the same with Dream Maker, and while I agree with a lot of his sentiments, I think he is wrong on this one. In the past, Matt described Carpro Reset as smelling terrible, I don't know of anyone else who has said that.

Unlike the majority of the products he sells, the Drying Aid would be harder to drop from the store. He would have a lot of money tied up in that product, from bottles to labels, from employees to facility space. It also costs A LOT of money to legalize a product for sale in the USA. In other words, he has a lot of overheads tied up with that product.

That's not to say OG Drying Aid is completely outclassed or needing replacement, in fact I really really like using it. But there is a lot at play here.

[prydey]

Due to various factors I haven't washed my car for a while (health, work, weather etc). A good opportunity presented this morning so got set up. I'd checked the forecast yesterday and it said no rain for the next few days. Walked out today and it looked very ominous. Checked the BOM again and still saying no rain, partly cloudy.

As a cyclist I should know better than to trust the BOM but I started washing the car anyway.

1 wheel down and the rain starts.

Talk about frustating. Hopefully it blows through pretty quick.

[prydey]

I use Carpro Perl, diluted 1:1 for my tyres and exterior plastics, like wheel arch surrounds on the escape and side steps and mud spats on the Everest. Another product I'm really happy with and is quite versatile.

Generally I put one coat on the plastics and 2 coats on the tyres, as at 1:1 dilution, I find the tyres need at least 2 hits to give the look I want.

I'm toying with the idea of reducing the dilution to 2:1. When I first bought it, I used it undiluted on the tyres and wasn't a fan. So has anyone used it at 2:1 strength (2 parts perl, 1 part water) and will that be a noticeable shade darker than 2 hits of 1:1?

Also would 2:1 still be ok to use on the exterior plastics mentioned earlier?

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by prydey

I use Carpro Perl, diluted 1:1 for my tyres and exterior plastics, like wheel arch surrounds on the escape and side steps and mud spats on the Everest. Another product I'm really happy with and is quite versatile.

Generally I put one coat on the plastics and 2 coats on the tyres, as at 1:1 dilution, I find the tyres need at least 2 hits to give the look I want.

I'm toying with the idea of reducing the dilution to 2:1. When I first bought it, I used it undiluted on the tyres and wasn't a fan. So has anyone used it at 2:1 strength (2 parts perl, 1 part water) and will that be a noticeable shade darker than 2 hits of 1:1?

Also would 2:1 still be ok to use on the exterior plastics mentioned earlier?

Carpro list Perl can be used on trim from 1:1 out to 3:1, so 2:1 would be fine.

External Plastics: 1 / 1-3 parts water
Engine: 1 / 1-3 parts water
Tires & Rubber: Undiluted - 1:1, 2 thin coats with 20 minutes or more between will offer the best looking dark black tires you will find.
Interior Vinyl and Leather: 1 / 5 Parts water

[prydey]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

2 thin coats with 20 minutes or more between will offer the best looking dark black tires you will find.

I'll go give them another hit. I normally only leave a minute or 2 between coats.

I'm happy with how 1:1 looks on the sidestep /wheel arch trim etc.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by prydey

I'll go give them another hit. I normally only leave a minute or 2 between coats.

I'm happy with how 1:1 looks on the sidestep /wheel arch trim etc.

There has been some suggestion that 1:1 is the sweet spot for Perl on tyres, it ends up being very watery beyond that.

[prydey]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

There has been some suggestion that 1:1 is the sweet spot for Perl on tyres, it ends up being very watery beyond that.

I was asking about less dilution i.e 2:1 (2 parts perl to 1 part water) for example.

Just curious if anyone had tried it, otherwise I'm happy with 50/50 mix.

Undiluted is too strong. I've used it like that but it takes ages to dry and ends up slinging.

[OneMadMan]

Hi guys,

Was talking to a guy at work last week and he was telling me how good this wheel cleaner is. Spray on, wait a few mins, hose off. Done.

The product I alluded to is:



So I decided to burn $42 to see if it was any good.

Tried it on a friends Mitsi Mirage.. as the test mule.
The way I tried it was, move car to the gutter. Wheels were cold and a little dirty, some brakes dust.
Sprayed the first wheel, let it sit for a minute or 2 as per the destructions, then hosed it off using the garden hose on flat out, with a jet stream.

Before:

After:

Loved the way it cleaned the inside of the rim and brake calliper as a bonus.
Not sure if it's good enough for the FG... still deciding.

One Man

[Trendseeker]

I usually buy my car care products from the local Repco, Autobarn or Detailing Shed stores. I’ve bought some brushes in the past, but the prices they charge for a detailing brush just seem a bit excessive. One of them advertised a brush for $58 and I found the same item on Temu for $12. Of course, I had to buy some other stuff to get free postage.

For $40 including postage:

[FTE217]

Originally Posted by onemanempire

Hi guys,

Was talking to a guy at work last week and he was telling me how good this wheel cleaner is. Spray on, wait a few mins, hose off. Done.

The product I alluded to is:

image

So I decided to burn $42 to see if it was any good.

Tried it on a friends Mitsi Mirage.. as the test mule.
The way I tried it was, move car to the gutter. Wheels were cold and a little dirty, some brakes dust.
Sprayed the first wheel, let it sit for a minute or 2 as per the destructions, then hosed it off using the garden hose on flat out, with a jet stream.

Before:

image

After:

image

Loved the way it cleaned the inside of the rim and brake calliper as a bonus.
Not sure if it's good enough for the FG... still deciding.

One Man

TBH 1Man/One Man I don't see that before After that great a diff to me.
I'd say NV Purge would show a better result.
I don't use Bowdens product anymore, like all these brands some are better than others depending what for.
Purge is the better wheel cleaner brand I have used in years and endorsed by DFB long ago haha

[OneMadMan]

Originally Posted by FTE217

TBH 1Man/One Man I don't see that before After that great a diff to me.I'd say NV Purge would show a better result.I don't use Bowdens product anymore, like all these brands some are better than others depending what for.Purge is the better wheel cleaner brand I have used in years and endorsed by DFB long ago haha

Yeah, totally agree with you FTE. I didn't see $42 dollars worth of difference either. My FG wheels never get a chance to get dirty, as I have OCD. Had a chat to the guy who recommended Bowdens, and he said just don't leave it on to long or it will wreck the finish.

I thought it was to good to be true, and was right. But, hey, I just wanted to spend some money. Tick.
It's super aggressive, as can be seen by the brake calliper and inside of the rim.

BTW, I answer to either... 1MAN or One Man.. hehehe. Thanks for the heads up. DFB is definitely the "oracle" when it comes to the "go to" products.

Happy day and thanks for all of the previous 1000's of tips on how to clean a car to within an inch of it's life..

One Man.