Car Detailing - What products are your go to?

[anobserver]

Thanks for the tips, dfb. After more than four hours of washing, polishing, bowdens flash prep, then a coat of lustre and finally jet, it looks pretty amazing. Tried taking a pic... cant really capture the depth of what it looks like.

Going to have to replace the perspex headlight protectors and number plate guards now, theyre looking a bit shabbier in comparison.

[DFB FGXR6]

Car Craft Auto Detailing review of the new Shine Mate Cordless polishers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2x-1FYJfEE&t=508s

I'm thinking the 12mm 5" would be up my alley.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...s-12mm-eb351-5

[fordomatic]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Car Craft Auto Detailing review of the new Shine Mate Cordless polishers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2x-1FYJfEE&t=508s

I'm thinking the 12mm 5" would be up my alley.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...s-12mm-eb351-5

What would be your reason to buy one mate. I was thinking of getting one too but with a rotary mini, shine mate RO 12mm and 21mm all corded i can't really justify it. I've never had any issues with the corded machines and feel they balance really well.

[fordomatic]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Car Craft Auto Detailing review of the new Shine Mate Cordless polishers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2x-1FYJfEE&t=508s

I'm thinking the 12mm 5" would be up my alley.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...s-12mm-eb351-5

Ok, i wrote my last comment before i watched that review, I also read Liam Kalas's review on a detailing page. Pretty sure i'm going to buy the 15mm. I'll justify it by selling the corded 15mm

I've never been a big fan of cordless as I don't really see the point, but it seems they are becoming the new norm and with 2 batteries in the pack it's not like you'll run out of power at any point.

[Mulva]

Cleaning a glass panoramic roof...just use glass cleaner? Can they be clayed??

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by Mulva

Cleaning a glass panoramic roof...just use glass cleaner? Can they be clayed??

Glass can be clayed and polished just like paint. Glass being far harder, there is less chance of inflicting marring as well. Just take not to heat the pad up too much.

[DFB FGXR6]

Waxit have 15% off store wide for black Friday starting today, with the sale lasting till 11.59 pm Friday.

Hmmmm, I think I will be making some pretty strong hints as to what I would like for my birthday and Christmas this year.

[fordomatic]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Waxit have 15% off store wide for black Friday starting today, with the sale lasting till 11.59 pm Friday.

Hmmmm, I think I will be making some pretty strong hints as to what I would like for my birthday and Christmas this year.

This sale is very dangerous

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Ha ha ha, I love it!!

I have a larger corded polisher, one of these would be an addition to help with smaller areas. I also like the idea of a better balanced machine, the battery adding weight to the tail end.

What mini rotary to do have?

I've got this one mate, so handy, i use it so much. Even for things I didnt think i would, like headlights and tail lights, all the really hard to reach intricate areas. The extender shafts it has are really great too. Just have to be really careful with it as its so small you forget it a rotary sometimes. I burnt through the plastic mirror on my xr8 when it jumped on me Also did exactly the same on my P250, was on almost max speed and it kicked onto the sideskirt and i thought it left a massive burn mark, it ended up just being product burnt and i got it out

https://www.waxit.com.au/products/sh...RoCfjEQAvD_BwE

[PRO-GT]

Originally Posted by fordomatic

This sale is very dangerous



I've got this one mate, so handy, i use it so much. Even for things I didnt think i would, like headlights and tail lights, all the really hard to reach intricate areas. The extender shafts it has are really great too. Just have to be really careful with it as its so small you forget it a rotary sometimes. I burnt through the plastic mirror on my xr8 when it jumped on me Also did exactly the same on my P250, was on almost max speed and it kicked onto the sideskirt and i thought it left a massive burn mark, it ended up just being product burnt and i got it out

https://www.waxit.com.au/products/sh...RoCfjEQAvD_BwE

I also have this one and find it hard to use at times as it jumps so much. Especially on the 1” pads.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by fordomatic

This sale is very dangerous

Um, well........................







More here for those interested -
https://www.fordforums.com.au/showth...31#post6528831

[FTE217]

Good to see your happy, I've used the product for sometime can't go wrong.
Next get on the DLUX product for your exterior plastics (can be used on your wheels as well) .....
Silicone based and its a challenge getting used to it first time but its bloody marvellous !
Compared to other product this lasts, you know you get annoyed some wash off within a week or so, its been a number of weeks and 2 wash's since I did the wifes CX5 which is never under cover, still holding its finish.

[anobserver]

With all these new products, i'm gonna need a bigger cupboard...

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by anobserver

With all these new products, i'm gonna need a bigger cupboard...

Ha ha, and I'm going to need another cupboard!





Great feedback regarding Nova Lustre and Jet. Those two products really punch above their weight, providing great results with minimal user input.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Ha ha, and I'm going to need another cupboard!

image

image

Great feedback regarding Nova Lustre and Jet. Those two products really punch above their weight, providing great results with minimal user input.

Good news! A re-organisation in the garage today has freed up some space.



Now excuse me while I go shopping to help fill those gaps.....................

[DFB FGXR6]

I have used a variety of CarPro products but never one of their polishes.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...-reflect-250ml



Easy wipe off and no dusting are big draw cards for Reflect. Looking forward to giving it a try.

[anobserver]

Originally Posted by FTE217

Good to see your happy, I've used the product for sometime can't go wrong.
Next get on the DLUX product for your exterior plastics (can be used on your wheels as well) .....
Silicone based and its a challenge getting used to it first time but its bloody marvellous !
Compared to other product this lasts, you know you get annoyed some wash off within a week or so, its been a number of weeks and 2 wash's since I did the wifes CX5 which is never under cover, still holding its finish.

Waxit stock it for $52 a bottle. Is this typical?

My external plastics are quite faded and could do with some enhancement.

[FTE217]

Originally Posted by anobserver

Waxit stock it for $52 a bottle. Is this typical?

My external plastics are quite faded and could do with some enhancement.

yes mate, that pretty much the std price barring when on "special"......
Its a small bottle but you only need a few drops on the pad or cloth for good coverage, just depends how worn out the surface is.
As I've said, best product I've ever used for black plastics that lasts compared those that wash off the next rain or wash and have to re coat.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by FTE217

yes mate, that pretty much the std price barring when on "special"......
Its a small bottle but you only need a few drops on the pad or cloth for good coverage, just depends how worn out the surface is.
As I've said, best product I've ever used for black plastics that lasts compared those that wash off the next rain or wash and have to re coat.

Just to add to FTE's post, the cloths you use with a ceramic product like DLUX should never be used on the paint again. Either bin them or donate them to the rag pile.

There are so many trim restorers on the market, some last until the next wash and stuff like DLUX or Gyeon Trim will give 12 to 24 month durability.

[anobserver]

Originally Posted by FTE217

Good to see your happy, I've used the product for sometime can't go wrong.
Next get on the DLUX product for your exterior plastics (can be used on your wheels as well) .....
Silicone based and its a challenge getting used to it first time but its bloody marvellous !
Compared to other product this lasts, you know you get annoyed some wash off within a week or so, its been a number of weeks and 2 wash's since I did the wifes CX5 which is never under cover, still holding its finish.

Down the rabbit hole we go ...

Ive tried a number of products on the external trim. They all fade and/or wash off so have now ordered the dlux. The lustre and jet now make the contrast with the faded trim pieces unbearable to look at.

Now thinking about some new floor mats, and replacing the peeling window tinting. Overtime is a marvellous thing....

[LTDHO]

I used Autosmart for years, but a few years ago I switched to Bowdens Own.
The amount of products is now ridiculous, almost as thought you need a small loan to stock up.

So I stick with what I like. Latest was "The black box" which I'm yet to try.

[au350hp]

Water. Soap. Sponge. Bucket. Towel.

[Bossxr8]

What’s the best way to clean polishes out of pads and microfibre cloths?

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by Bossxr8

What’s the best way to clean polishes out of pads and microfibre cloths?

From post 153 of this thread -

"Dishwashing liquid and hot water, work the washing liquid through them with hot water until they run clear when wrung out."

You can also get pad cleaning products -

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections/pad-cleaning

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

From post 153 of this thread -

"Dishwashing liquid and hot water, work the washing liquid through them with hot water until they run clear when wrung out."

You can also get pad cleaning products -

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections/pad-cleaning

Just add to my post, I used Bowden's Microfibre Wash on some pads today.

https://www.bowdensown.com.au/produc...icrofibre-wash



After rinsing, I soaked them with the Microfibre Wash, agitated then thoroughly rinsed. Worked very well.

[Yellow_Festiva]

Straight water, preferably free range and organic. I find the best stuff falls from the sky.

Sent from my SM-G973F using Tapatalk

[Swordie]

Can anyone recommend a dual action polisher for home use that has good support for an array of pads. I need to work on the black paint of my BA g220 that is faded. It will also be used on a couple of other cars that have much better paint to keep them in good condition.

Here's an an example of what I have seen that seems quite good. I was thinking in 200- 300 range if possible. There is quite a few cheaper models around but I have doubts of how good they will be. If I need need to spend more I will.


https://www.amazon.com.au/Meguiars-A.../dp/B0169PTTLA

[FTE217]

Originally Posted by Swordie

Can anyone recommend a dual action polisher for home use that has good support for an array of pads. I need to work on the black paint of my BA g220 that is faded. It will also be used on a couple of other cars that have much better paint to keep them in good condition.

Here's an an example of what I have seen that seems quite good. I was thinking in 200- 300 range if possible. There is quite a few cheaper models around but I have doubts of how good they will be. If I need need to spend more I will.


https://www.amazon.com.au/Meguiars-A.../dp/B0169PTTLA

I can't speak on the megs one never used or owned.
I recommend this from waxit :
https://www.waxit.com.au/products/sh...iABEgJJ7vD_BwE

Works for me when a novice and still using it, have a black Sprint and black Hilux, does the job.
Buy couple of rolls of masking tape.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by Swordie

Can anyone recommend a dual action polisher for home use that has good support for an array of pads. I need to work on the black paint of my BA g220 that is faded. It will also be used on a couple of other cars that have much better paint to keep them in good condition.

Here's an an example of what I have seen that seems quite good. I was thinking in 200- 300 range if possible. There is quite a few cheaper models around but I have doubts of how good they will be. If I need need to spend more I will.


https://www.amazon.com.au/Meguiars-A.../dp/B0169PTTLA

I'm on the exact same wave length as FTE217, that Shine Mate would be an excellent choice. I think you would get better support going with something from Waxit or Detailing Shed, in both pads and customer service. Both will be more than happy to advise you if needed.

I would throw this one into the mix as well.
https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...a-polisher-kit

Both of the kits are much better value, especially considering the kit includes three high quality polishes and pad sets.

The included Scholle S20 Black is probably the best polish I have used so far.

[CyberWasp]

Here is the latest Graphene wonder product.
I am not sure when it will be available in Australia or the cost.
It is unique as it is to be used as the base and the maintenance topper.
When applying there is no wait time for hazing and can be buffed right off.
There is no cure time and has all the pro's of Graphene based products.
There are 2 variations as to how to apply it as a topper, in as a drying aid or spray on hose off.

[Mulva]

I think I'm good re regular washing etc, but have some general questions re occasional paint restoration/correction.

My circumstances are I'm not looking to get massively into detailing with regular cutting/polishing (and will fight the addition) - I will only be looking to cut/polish my own 2 cars and probably only once a year each, and just want to find a good balance between result versus time/effort to get that result...so not chasing show/mirror finish after 2 days of effort (or more), but want to get enough of a visible result to justify an arvo or the better part of a day.

Plan is:
(1) Wash
(2) Clay
(3) Wash & Dry
(4) Cut and/or Polish with DA Polisher
(5) Wax
(6) Maybe detail spray??

It is at (4) that I am a bit lost. Did some reading but still a bit lost when it comes to all the different options for pads, such as foam versus microfibre versus wool etc; and things like diamond pads or hex pads or flat pads or CCS; and whether it is the usual get-what-you-paid-for or if there are some middle-of-the-road options for pads that give good bang-for-buck or have wider coverage of use?

I have the following:
- 1 x gunmetal grey with usual light scratches/swirls/lovemarks
- 1 x black with couple of deep scratches, lots of minor scratches, and very faded black paint on horizontal surfaces
- 1 x DA polisher with 6.5 inch and 4(?) inch backing plates
- 1 x Scholl S20 Black ordered and on its way

I know hard to say without seeing them, but from my loose description will the black car need a heavier/stronger cutting pad than the grey car? And/or possibly need compound heavier than Scholl S20 black?

I don't know if I can use S20 compound on both cars and use a heavy cutting pad on the black car and a medium pad on the grey; or if I should use a medium cutting pad on both cars but use S20 on the grey and use a harsher compound on the black car; or just use S20 and medium pad on both and spend more time and do more passes on the black car?

Using Lake Country as an example, would I get Yellow Cutting Pad for the black car and get Orange Light Cutting Pad for the grey car (and also get a White Polishing Pad and a Black/Grey Finishing Pad to use on both cars after cutting)? Or get a few Orange Light Cutting Pads and use on both cars?

And I have read that Scholl S20 Black "finishes" very clean and some use it as a one-step compound that cuts and polishes - so if I am only after good but not great results in a moderate amount of time, would I only need Cutting pads but won't really get much benefit from making further passes with Polishing and/or Finishing pads? So just get more cutting pads instead of getting polishing and/or finishing pads? How many cutting pads would you normally need to do a large sedan?

I know there is no generic answer to all of the above as it will really depend on circumstances and lots of variables, but if you were to have to put together a good value starter pack of pads for a novice that covers wide range of use but likely only once a year, what would you throw together? What brands would you recommend or avoid, what colour/grade, and how many of each?

Appreciate any advice, even if very broad