Car Detailing - What products are your go to? - Page 15

CyberWasp · 03-05-2021, 08:02 PM

It's not fair, everyone has a WD6 and I only have a WD3.5.

Top_Ghia · 03-05-2021, 09:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CyberWasp

It's not fair, everyone has a WD6 and I only have a WD3.5.

It could be worse. You could have a WD2

**DFB FGXR6** · 05-05-2021, 08:52 PM

I needed some more glass cleaner but, as usual, I got carried away.

The glass cleaner is CarPro Clarify. I was keen to give this a try after good reviews on a detailing forum I frequent.

These Dirtlock grit guards https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...-bucket-insert would have to be one my most disappointing detailing purchases. A grit guard is useless if it floats to the top of the bucket because the rubber feet don't hold it in place. Sometimes, keeping it simple is a better option, hence me replacing mine with standard issue items.

NV Purify is a clay lubricant that also has a iron removing function. Like other iron removers, CarPro IronX for example, Purify smells pretty bad. This product essentially combines clay decontamination with chemical decontamination in one step.
https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...rify-clay-lube

And for those who have used CarPro Eraser before will know, the scent of this product is one of it's draw cards. And good news, CarPro will sell you a air-freshener that smells just like Eraser. https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...ar-perfume-8ml

I now need one that smells like Koch Chemie GSF and my life would be complete!

bangm001 · 07-05-2021, 10:08 PM

Hi DFB, im after some more advice.. Im after a fairly gentle hand polish for my car.
I have always used Autoglym Super resin polish with great results, especially when followed by their HD wax. But after reading alot on detailing, realised that the swirls im seeing after 6 months probably never really went away as the SRP isnt really a "cutting" polish as such.
So hence my question, i done really want to venture into the DA polisher world just yet. So im just after an easy to work with hand polsh that will take away some very fine swirls i have began to see.

Cheers again.

**DFB FGXR6** · 07-05-2021, 10:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bangm001

Hi DFB, im after some more advice.. Im after a fairly gentle hand polish for my car.
I have always used Autoglym Super resin polish with great results, especially when followed by their HD wax. But after reading alot on detailing, realised that the swirls im seeing after 6 months probably never really went away as the SRP isnt really a "cutting" polish as such.
So hence my question, i done really want to venture into the DA polisher world just yet. So im just after an easy to work with hand polsh that will take away some very fine swirls i have began to see.

Cheers again.

Yes, Super Resin Polish has fillers to mask paint defects, meaning they return after a period of time.

For over the counter products, have a look at either Meguiars Ultimate Compound or Ultimate Polish. Both of these can be used by hand. Ultimate Compound has no fillers, Ultimate Polish has some minor filling ability though. Have a look at Sandro's review on these products, some very useful tips and techniques. He even gives some comparisons between these Meg's products and SRP.

https://www.meguiars.com.au/product/ultimate-compound/
https://www.meguiars.com.au/product/ultimate-polish/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Dydkw9OYwQ

For what you want to do, Ultimate Polish should be all you need.

Although not by hand, I used CarPro's Reflect to remove some minor swirling and boost gloss. This product can be used by hand and has "No durable fillers: 100% Body shop safe, No silicones, No waxes, No polymers, and No Teflon".

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

**DFB FGXR6** · 08-05-2021, 10:16 PM

More is never enough with detailing. I have just ordered a Maxshine Wheel Stand, designed to make wheel cleaning, tyre prep and coating more ergonomic. The three polyurethane rollers allow the wheel to be turned easily while you work your way around the wheel.

https://detailingshed.com.au/collect...-wheel-coating

**GO FURTHER** · 15-05-2021, 09:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

More is never enough with detailing. I have just ordered a Maxshine Wheel Stand, designed to make wheel cleaning, tyre prep and coating more ergonomic. The three polyurethane rollers allow the wheel to be turned easily while you work your way around the wheel.

Not sure if I see the benefit in this device, and if any time would be saved in using it?

(Unless it is for a commercial operation for new wheels being cleaned/coated before going on a car).

Since you have to jack up the car to take the wheel off to put it on the wheel stand...

Why not just jack up each corner of the car at a time (assuming you don't have a hoist at home), and spin the wheel on the car by hand (with Handbrake off)?

Then there is the time saved by not having to put each wheel back on the car, and doing up the wheel nuts, etc.

**DFB FGXR6** · 15-05-2021, 10:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GO FURTHER

Not sure if I see the benefit in this device, and if any time would be saved in using it?

(Unless it is for a commercial operation for new wheels being cleaned/coated before going on a car).

Since you have to jack up the car to take the wheel off to put it on the wheel stand...

Why not just jack up each corner of the car at a time (assuming you don't have a hoist at home), and spin the wheel on the car by hand (with Handbrake off)?

Then there is the time saved by not having to put each wheel back on the car, and doing up the wheel nuts, etc.

I can appreciate that a wheel stand like this is a somewhat unnecessary luxury. But when have I never gone all in on something.

For my new wheels, I will be ceramic coating them prior to fitment, so the stand will make that task just a bit easier. If was going to coat my existing wheels, I would also wanting to do the barrels, meaning the wheel would need to come off anyway to get access.

A couple of videos of these type of stands -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4I6rb0MkhdQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYpeoJcUDqM

As for a hoist, what a great idea!

T3rminator · 09-05-2021, 12:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Yes, Super Resin Polish has fillers to mask paint defects, meaning they return after a period of time.

For over the counter products, have a look at either Meguiars Ultimate Compound or Ultimate Polish. Both of these can be used by hand. Ultimate Compound has no fillers, Ultimate Polish has some minor filling ability though. Have a look at Sandro's review on these products, some very useful tips and techniques. He even gives some comparisons between these Meg's products and SRP.

https://www.meguiars.com.au/product/ultimate-compound/
https://www.meguiars.com.au/product/ultimate-polish/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Dydkw9OYwQ

........

Wish i saw this video a few weeks ago. I bought both and didn't really know the difference. Trying to fix a hood I temporarily can sprayed

**DFB FGXR6** · 11-05-2021, 06:27 PM

Got a chance to use CarPro Clarify for the first time today on the Ranger.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...-glass-cleaner

I spray this onto a microfibre glass towel, wipe the surface then follow up with a waffle weave towel to dry to a streak free finish. I really liked how it performed on the second wipe, evaporating quickly and leaving the glass feeling slick. Compared to other glass cleaners such as Stoners Invisible Glass, Clarify does not have a strong alcohol aroma, rather a pleasing banana scent. Also worth noting, CarPro have changed their sprayer heads recently. The newer ones don't feel as good as what they were using previously.

I have been using these towels for glass for a few years now after trying a number of combinations. The Rapids or Smitten for the initial wipe, the waffle weave for the final wipe.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...se-glass-cloth
https://detailingshed.com.au/collect...dry-me-a-river
https://detailingshed.com.au/collect...ten-glass-mitt

Top_Ghia · 15-05-2021, 07:56 PM

Can anyone recommend a concentrated all purpose cleaner I can mix up at different ratios for various cleaning jobs? Engine bays, tyres, interiors and door jams etc.

**DFB FGXR6** · 15-05-2021, 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Top_Ghia

Can anyone recommend a concentrated all purpose cleaner I can mix up at different ratios for various cleaning jobs? Engine bays, tyres, interiors and door jams etc.

I used Auto Finesse Verso APC for a few years. This can be dilluted as required.

https://www.waxit.com.au/collections...esse-verso-apc

I'm now using Koch Chemie Green Star. This can also be diluted so 1 litre bottle will last you for years. I have been pretty impressed with it's cleaning power at 1:8.

https://detailingshed.com.au/collect...oncentrated-1l

One thing I would suggest is to get at least two spray bottles so you can have both heavy and light dilutions mixed up. With Green Star being an alkaline solution, make sure you choose an appropriate sprayer that can handle high pH chemicals.

https://detailingshed.com.au/collect...nix-hd-solvent

Top_Ghia · 16-05-2021, 01:40 PM

I just bought a cheap ALDI one. It’s probably not low enough if you’re comparing it to sitting on the floor.

anobserver · 16-05-2021, 01:45 PM

Guessing thats about 40cm high?

Id like something lower, if possible.

CyberWasp · 16-05-2021, 01:51 PM

I use a Milk Crate with a $10 Cushion and kick it around to where it needs to be.

anobserver · 16-05-2021, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CyberWasp

I use a Milk Crate with a $10 Cushion and kick it around to where it needs to be.

Just tried upending a bucket with folded towel on top. Works great.

Top_Ghia · 16-05-2021, 08:48 PM

I’m very impressed with all the Bowdens Own microfiber towels. I have 3 big green suckers, a coupe of drop bears and some big softie cloths. All seem far better than all the other brands I have. They just seem to absorb more and make that final wipe down when far easier. The just seem to have nailed the material unlike anything else I’ve tried.
I must admit I’m quickly becoming a Bowdens fan boi. I use their snow foam, happy ending, after glow, lazy wax, and quite a few others. I hope my hard earned cash is actually going to support Aussie workers and helping Mr Bowden add to his car collection.
After washing the Stang today I thought I’d try Lazy Wax for the first time. The car now feels super slick and looks very glossy, but it was hardly rough to start with. I also gave under the hood a bit of a wash. Damn it’s a ridiculously good looking car.

fiestaz · 24-05-2021, 05:24 PM

I have had inspiration! From DFBs massive garage thread and seeing his love and passion for detailing. I also see it as therapy, but in probably smaller doses than DFB. However, I have set myself a list for next two or so weeks to do some real detailing.
Today I started with paint touch ups under the front bar. Typical driveway scrapes. Unfortunately my car is in no where near the conditions of DFBs gorgeous fleet.

Next I started on the steering wheel. I dislike wheels that go that horrible shiny look. I tried a new technique with existing product I have, Autoglym leather cleaner using a brush to agitate. I was very happy with the results. Followed by autoglym leather balm. DFB inspired with the agitation brush. Wish I had Bowdens products instead but autoglym will do for now.

Not bad for 100,000kms!

I continued on this theme and attacked the front seats and door leather. Came up good, something I really noticed was how dirty the suds were getting from the leather cleaner. Hinting the touch and fart points definitely needed a clean.

Finished off with some organising to prep for what I would like to achieve. I really wish I had more space to play with, but living with mates means i can’t have the place exactly how my OCD desires...

Watch this space for what is next when the weather clears up.

**DFB FGXR6** · 24-05-2021, 06:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fiestaz

I have had inspiration! From DFBs massive garage thread and seeing his love and passion for detailing. I also see it as therapy, but in probably smaller doses than DFB. However, I have set myself a list for next two or so weeks to do some real detailing.
Today I started with paint touch ups under the front bar. Typical driveway scrapes. Unfortunately my car is in no where near the conditions of DFBs gorgeous fleet.

As long as you enjoyed the process, that is all that matters.

Nice work!

CyberWasp · 24-05-2021, 10:58 PM

From my research there are 1 of 2 ways to stop your headlights fading again.
Once it has been polished to how you want them, you will need to replace the clear coat or they will slowly return to how they were.
One is to respray the clear coat back onto the headlight with a 2K Clear Aerosol paint with UV inhibitor. Once done, you will need to lightly sand it smooth with fine wet and dry sandpaper, as you can get an orange peel type effect, which reduces headlight performance.
or Two is to apply Clear 3M Film that has UV Protection inbuilt into the film, sort of like window tint.
I am still undecided on which way to go on mine.

fiestaz · 26-05-2021, 05:25 PM

Getting slammed at work today so not getting as much done as I’d hoped.
Lazy wax for the colour, I love the depth and shine it brings.
Quick polish to remove gunk on headlights, followed by fully slick for some protection (probably not the best but better than nothing for them)
Autoglym bumper and trim gel for the windscreen washers and touch pads for keyless entry. Again not the best but I have it.
Am hopeful tomorrow morning I can fully slick the rest of the car once the wax has cured.

Oh and how could I forget, supercheaps cheap and nasty tyre shine. Why do you ask? Because I have two boxes of it received for free.

**DFB FGXR6** · 26-05-2021, 09:28 PM

I came across this little bracket that holds a foam cannon upright when not in use on Instagram today.

Annoyingly, these are only available from USA suppliers. Shipping is $125 for a $25 part!

**DFB FGXR6** · 17-01-2022, 08:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

I came across this little bracket that holds a foam cannon upright when not in use on Instagram today.

image

image

image

Annoyingly, these are only available from USA suppliers. Shipping is $125 for a $25 part!

Well, it's taken 8 months for one of these to become available locally for sane money.

https://detailingshed.com.au/collect...n-bucket-mount

I actually reached out to Nick at Detailing Shed last October and asked if he had something like this on the cards. As it turned out, he had just ordered some from Maxshine, along with a few other items that he asked my opinion on. I started dialog with Nick when I ordered my Kranzle in 2020 and have kept touch with him ever since. I get a kick out of being asked for opinions on new products, chances are if I want it, others will too.

As I mentioned in the earlier post, I wash wheels, wheel arches and exhausts while seated. My seat and buckets are on wheels to help me scoot from wheel to wheel without getting up and moving everything one by one. I find this both more efficient as well as more relaxing. The foam cannon was the odd one out in this, now it can hang from the side of the bucket and come along for the ride.

ford12 · 17-01-2022, 09:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Well, it's taken 8 months for one of these to become available locally for sane money.

https://detailingshed.com.au/collect...n-bucket-mount

image

image

image

I actually reached out to Nick at Detailing Shed last October and asked if he had something like this on the cards. As it turned out, he had just ordered some from Maxshine, along with a few other items that he asked my opinion on. I started dialog with Nick when I ordered my Kranzle in 2020 and have kept touch with him ever since. I get a kick out of being asked for opinions on new products, chances are if I want it, others will too.

As I mentioned in the earlier post, I wash wheels, wheel arches and exhausts while seated. My seat and buckets are on wheels to help me scoot from wheel to wheel without getting up and moving everything one by one. I find this both more efficient as well as more relaxing. The foam cannon was the odd one out in this, now it can hang from the side of the bucket and come along for the ride.

image

What's the fitting on the end of the hose, some sort of sprayer ?

**DFB FGXR6** · 17-01-2022, 09:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ford12

What's the fitting on the end of the hose, some sort of sprayer ?

I'm assuming you are referring to the black rubber nozzle and protector assembly?

These nozzles are different to standard nozzle tips in that they recess the actual nozzle tip inside a rubber boot. Should the fitting not seat properly into the gun, the rubber shroud helps protect the car should it fly into the bodywork or glass at high pressure. I will state however, it is always a good idea to squeeze the gun on your pressure washer pointed downwards before aiming it at the car. The rubber tips are just another layer of protection.

You can see here the difference between the two types of nozzles -

Another thing I like with them is they are a more precise fitting/connection and the nozzle outputs are more clearly defined.

These Mosmatic nozzles I got from Obsessed Garage -
https://www.obsessedgarage.com/produ...ozzle-assembly

However, they are now also sold at The Detail Store -
https://www.detailstore.com.au/produ...39590358941751

MTM also sell a similar item -
https://detailingshed.com.au/product...35879335002271

**FTE217** · 26-05-2021, 10:11 PM

its like they are running out of new useful lines for sale.
Being a avid golfer as times have progreesed the amount of useless gimmicky lines on offer is just a joke.
How many times do you whilst your using your foam cannon you put it down ?!
I never do, you do your complete coverage so all done in one go/or soon as poss.
Typical yanks for me.

**GasoLane** · 26-05-2021, 10:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FTE217

its like they are running out of new useful lines for sale.
Being a avid golfer as times have progreesed the amount of useless gimmicky lines on offer is just a joke.
How many times do you whilst your using your foam cannon you put it down ?!
I never do, you do your complete coverage so all done in one go/or soon as poss.
Typical yanks for me.

So what happens if it is put down, does it run away?

**DFB FGXR6** · 26-05-2021, 10:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FTE217

its like they are running out of new useful lines for sale.
Being a avid golfer as times have progreesed the amount of useless gimmicky lines on offer is just a joke.
How many times do you whilst your using your foam cannon you put it down ?!
I never do, you do your complete coverage so all done in one go/or soon as poss.
Typical yanks for me.

I use my foam cannon when wheel cleaning, which I do seated. I have a bucket dolly and creep from wheel to wheel. That little holder would be handy for this. Sort of hard to explain but if you watched me doing this you would understand.

EDIT -

As you can see, everything I need travels easily with me as I go except for the foam cannon. It gets a bit awkward.

**GasoLane** · 26-05-2021, 10:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

I use my foam cannon when wheel cleaning, which I do seated. I have a bucket dolly and creep from wheel to wheel. That little holder would be handy for this. Sort of hard to explain but if you watched me doing this you would understand.

Either someone with a 3D printer or any metalwork shop could make similar for about $10.............then an extra $10 to get your initials engraved

**DFB FGXR6** · 26-05-2021, 10:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GasoLane

Either someone with a 3D printer or any metalwork shop could make similar for about $10.............then an extra $10 to get your initials engraved

And another $10 for it be painted red and I would be ecstatic!