wax suggestions ?

[misterKTM]

Any suggestion for what wax to use on the 'glass car ? I've been using rain dance for quite a few years on my other cars, but thought maybe I should check to see if there was something better for the corvette.

Thanks,

Rob
:)

[Rob]

Rob,

I highly recommend the Meguiars Professional Line of waxes or the 3M line. Others also recommend Zaino, but I've had no experience with it. Check out our Product Reviews Database (http://corvetteactioncenter.com/reviews/index.php) for more information.

[78SilvAnniv]

Hey Mister,
We use the Meguiars with carnuba wax product.
Previously on our other cars, and the old paint on 78, we used whatever was handy. With the new paint, we decided to use carnuba wax. It has lasted through several baths, and smelled good upon application, and it didn't make me want to wear the rubber gloves!
Very happy with Meguiars.
Silver

[twiget]

If money is no object when it comes to keeping your car looking good, I would recommend Zaino. I used to use it on my GS exclusivley. It does a very good job of shining the car to a mirror finish. The biggest drawback is that it's expensive, and hard to get a hold of. Unless there is a distributor in your area you have to mail order the stuff, which just makes it that much more expensive.

For the last couple of months I've used Megulars and have not been able to tell the diffrence. And as an added bonus, Megulars is cheaper and easier to find.

Hope this helps.

Jason

[Eric]

I use and recommend three waxes - Meguiar's, Meguiar's, and Meguiar's;). I have a shelf of probably 10 different products of theirs and I love them all. I'm not in the garage right now so I won't remember them all but here are the ones I can think of in no particular order: fine cut polish, body scrub, paint cleaner, quick mist detailer, high endurance tire gel, gold class carnauba paste, wash gel, high definition polish, polishing compound, clay, and a few more I can't think of. I've used everything under the sun and nothing else in my budget outperforms Meguires.

I use an orbital polisher for the cleaner, polish, and wax, everything else I do by hand. If I'm giving any of the 3 cars the full treatment, it usually takes me from about 7am until about 4pm, just in time for the cruising :).

[fastglass95]

I started using Zaino on my newer Vette and found the stuff to be amazing. I belive it works better on darker colors also. Check there website at: http://www.zainobros.com You can also order from them direct. And "Ecklers" sells the stuff in there catologs also.

On my older Vette, it still has laquer paint (original paint) and I find a pure carnuba wax to be better over top of a coat of Mequairs "show car glaze" polish/cleaner or other light cleaning product. I've also used the Mequiars "Scratch-X" before applying the carnuba wax with very good results.

But for a newer clear coated car I would definatly go with the Zaino system. Lasts long and keeps the car show trophies coming in regularly.

Zaino = :upthumbs

[sanman]

We have the same color ,and on black zainos is the best,it works
best on dark color cars,but its a little pricey but it gives you a deep mirror finish

[Ken]

Originally posted by nyernga
...orbital buffer?

:eek Be verwy, verwy careful. :nono

[Eric]

Len,

Mine is an orbital as well, the other style scare me. It's much easier to get too much heat/friciton built up with the other style - I have no idea what you call them but they usually have two or three small heads.

Check my earlier post to see what I use with the polisher. ;)

- Eric

[FarOut]

Please pass the Zaino

http://www.zainobros.com

FarOut

[Tanzanite3]

ZAINO !

[Eric]

Originally posted by Tanzanite3
ZAINO !

Now Glenn, is that your unbiased opinion? :L:L.

- Eric

[c4vette92]

my two cents worth, use zaino . also the leather condition is very good, the smell is worth the price. stw

[c4ever]

Meguiars has done a great job on the Black and Red vettes and at a great cost. They make a great line of products.

[Pantera]

Originally posted by c4ever
Meguiars has done a great job on the Black and Red vettes and at a great cost. They make a great line of products.

YES - Meguiars does a great on black panit or any color.

[60w427]

I prefer Liquid Glass. Been using it since the early 80's.

[fins4284]

i'm a meguiars buff myself -- no pun intended!!! :Roll

[Boater Chuck]

I now have 4 coats of Zaino on my 2002 Mag Red Coupe and after the fourth coat, I could hardly concentrate on driving because of the shine coming off the hood! Unbelievable stuff!!

System is a little expensive, but you use so little of it, that a container of Z2 lasts for a long time. I am less than half way through my Z2 after 4 coats.

Stuff is also quick and easy to use - 25 minutes to apply and less than an hour to remove. Hardest part is seeing where you have put it on because it goes on clear. Use the entire system: clay bar, Z2 with the accelerator ZFX, and the Z6.

Only way to go for me. I also like their tire dressing and I apply it with "swipes" - curved sponges.

[RjCjR21]

Does anyone have any suggestions for waxing a black vette with some minor chips/dings? Unless I use a black colored liquid type wax, I have a bunch of white or yellow wax spots stuck in the chips depending on the color of wax I used. Everyone raves about Zaino and Meguires but to either carry a "black" wax to hide my paints imperfections? Or is there something I can use to buff the wax out of the cracks after waxing?

Thanks

[Rob]

Originally posted by RjCjR21
Does anyone have any suggestions for waxing a black vette with some minor chips/dings? Unless I use a black colored liquid type wax, I have a bunch of white or yellow wax spots stuck in the chips depending on the color of wax I used. Everyone raves about Zaino and Meguires but to either carry a "black" wax to hide my paints imperfections? Or is there something I can use to buff the wax out of the cracks after waxing?

Thanks

Here is an old detailer's trick. Wax the car like you normally would and then take a black sharpie and touch up the chips. It's not a repair, it's not a permanent solution, but it's cheap, quick and works.

[keith5]

My absolute favorite wax is Zymol! It is all natural and smells like bananas. It is fun to apply and does an excellent job on micro-scratches. It is a 200 year old formula created in Germany for
the royal coaches and funeral carriages. Its only drawback is that it doesnt last very long. But, hell what'd you buy a Vette for anyway?
My opinion of Liquid Glass - Extremely harsh aphilatic petroleum based solvent. It is good for removing oxidation and giving lustre.
It has the potential to get trapped between the clear coat and
the panit and create a thin void . Thus producing a milky leopard effect when the void gets moisture in it. Never to go away completely!

[60w427]

My Zaino is on the way.

[Boater Chuck]

RjCj - The Zaino goes on clear and stays clear - no white spots to worry about.

Great stuff - people say it is expensive but you can get about 8 coats on your vette out of an 8 ounce bottle for $13 so that seems reasonable to me.

[vetsvette]

ZAINO ZAINO

[Paul G]

I am putting my Zaino order in the mail tomarow morning on the way to work. My wifes black Grand Am GT will get it first. Then my Vette.

[nevadacoin]

zaino

[RubyDropTop]

Your initial question asks for a recommendation for a wax. No offense, but Zaino is actually not a wax, but rather a polymer. A carnauba and a polymer are like apples and oranges, they are rather different in several areas.

In the line of waxes, you have several different options available to you depending on the effect that you are looking for, as well as how deep your pockets are.

Personally, when speaking of waxes, I prefer Pinnacle Souveran. It is a high end wax with a high end price tag, but the results are outstanding. Cost is typically $70.00 for 8 oz., unless you can find it on sale. A close second to the Pinnacle Souveran is One Grand Blitz wax. Although it is a bit more difficult to work with than the Souveran, the results are very nice at a fraction of the cost. A tin typically sells for $15.00 or so. P21S may also be an option for you.

If you are looking for longer lasting protection (4 to 6 months) a quality polymer would serve you well. Two examples would be Klasse Sealant Glaze, and Zaino.

Typically speaking, a polymer provides reflectivity while a wax adds depth/warmth to a finish. I happen to use both a polymer and a carnauba on my car - 5 coats of Klasse Sealant Glaze have been laid down, and the Souveran is applied on top as needed. Topping Zaino with a wax has received mixed results by those that have tried it. Sal does not recommend it.

You have many options avaialble to you. You can experiment until you find what feels right for your needs/preferences.

[sothpaw]

So if Zaino is a polymer, does it protect
the paint from the Sun?

--If I use Zaino alone, will that protect the
car for 4-6 months and look good too? And
can I still use the Turtlewax Black wax to hide
scratches?

[RubyDropTop]

According to the statements made on the Zaino Web Site, Zaino will provide your finish with a UV rating of 40. Not all polymers will provide this protection, so read labels carefully if that is an important point for you.

Polymers are noted for surpassing waxes in durability, that point simply cannot be argued. Waxes evaporate and melt and don't stick around after too many washes either. It's simply their nature.

A quality polymer will not lack durability and should provide protection for your car for at least 4 months. What are you interested in using...Z5/Z2? Zaino can be applied in many coats over time, it depends on the "look" that you are trying to achieve.

The discussion of whether or not to apply a wax over Zaino usually gets pretty heated. Sal does not recommend it. Some that use Zaino on a regular basis have tried and liked it, others have tried it and have not liked it. If you do decide to go this route, you should keep in mind that the wax would have to be stripped (Dawn wash) prior to applying any more Zaino, as the Zaino will not bond to a waxed surface.

[Yoda]

RubyDropTop,

You seem to on top of this Wax~Polish topic. I see you mentioned "Klasse" in a previous post.

I've used both the Red and Silver bottle Klasse for years now and I am really happy with the results. Do you have any comments on "Klasse" or any advice on use?

Thanks

[RubyDropTop]

A fellow Klasse user, that's always nice to see. :) The red bottle is the Klasse All In One, and the silver bottle being the Klasse Sealant Glaze. They are typically referred to as the "Klasse Twins" as it is felt that they work hand in hand and compliment one another. It is not necessary to use them in conjunction with each other if you do not wish to, though.

Klasse products have been around since the 1970's. They are of German origin. I am rather partial to German products as they are typically straight forward and perform as indicated. I have yet to go wrong using a German detailing product, but cannot say the same for several American product lines.

The All In One is a polish that works more on a chemical basis versus strong abrasives. The All In One will also lay down a layer of acrylic when it is applied. Depending on the condition of your paint, All In One can be used as part of your surface prep. It is not recommended that you apply more than one coat of the All In One as it is felt that subsequent coats actually remove the previous coat. All In One should be applied very thinly. I use this product by hand and apply with a foam applicator.

The Klasse Sealant Glaze is a high quality polymer. The Klasse Sealant Glaze can be applied as often as you like, but it is advised that you allow a layer to cure (following buffing) for 24 hours before layering again. Many people feel that they reach the "Law Of Diminishing Returns" with the Sealant Glaze after about 5 coats. Again, the Sealant Glaze should be applied in very thin coats. Thicker is not better. Allow at least 40 minutes dry time on the Sealant Glaze,

I always buff these and other products off with high quality microfiber towels. Some people do not like microfiber, or are just afraid to try them. There is nothing to be afraid of with a high quality microfiber towel (and there certainly are differences among them).

On my car, the Klasse Sealant Glaze provides a very reflective/dipped in glass look. While I do like this, I also prefer a car that has depth/warmth to it...and that is why I top the Klasse with Pinnacle Souveran. The Souveran adds a great deal of richness to the finish. It is not necessary to add a wax on top of the Klasse, however. It's all personal preference.

I really like the Klasse products, and think that they are top notch.

[Jim]

Does Zaino bead or sheet the water off? How about MeGuiars characteristics in this regard? I've always heard that sheeting action was better than beading for preventing water spots when caught in the rain or under some errant sprinkler head in the sun (God forbid). The old Blue Coral used to sheet very well for a few weeks, but didn't last. Anyone have some suggestions on a polymer or wax that sheets the water off really well?

[Yoda]

RubyDropTop

Thanks for the info.. I've used Klasse since the early eightys, I received the "Twins" with a 1982 633csi I had. No longer have the csi but still use the product on everything including the shower ;) and bathroom marble sinks and vanities.

BudD
:w

[rwd]

Meguiar's Gold Class beads; I don't know about their carnauba wax.

One trick is not to use a spray nozzle or use the setting that best approximates unobstructed flow. That way, most of the water will sheet off leaving fewer beads than if a mist spray is used. It also leaves a lot less water on the car.

[my1corvette]

Hi, I used ZAINO on my torch red coupe , and have to say it is so easy to apply , you don't have to worry about getting some on your rubber. I just put on a second coat it is just like a mirror . Expensive? It come's down to about $6.00 or $7.00 per application is that too much on a $45000.00 car ?????
( my 2 cents, John )

[maxrevs85]

I prefer Mcguires. It has a product for every kind of paint situation. Where it showed me its results was on a black vehicle. It never looked as good ,even when it was new. the surface felt almost soft to the touch. The swirl remover when used with there buffing pad(with buffer) is out of this world and takes care of fine scratches and swirls. then i used the show car shine and followed it with a good hand rubbed yellow wax. :D....excellant....

[nevadacoin]

I am on my sixth coat of Zaino...The car is like a mirror and water beads off better than any product I have used..Well worth the time and money..

[maxrevs85]

Hell your cars brand new!! I would think any good wax would do.

[nevadacoin]

Hell,
After 3 c4s..I like not fixing old sins from other owners..Get a new one if you can afford it or move to a different thread..
Regards

[maxrevs85]

Hell, mister fricken perfect. Chill out........Damn little people going around screwing up poor innocent cars . Should be a law. .....All I'm really trying to say is .......nevermind it aint worth it.....
Here , wax this!! :booty

[Tanzanite3]

OK you two... enough of that!!

Everyone has their own experiences and preferences. The only thing we should do here on the forum is respect one another.. You both may be the neatest guys on the earth to meet in person, so don't spoil it by cutting each other up!!

Let's go have a beer.. :beer .. on me!!

[maxrevs85]

K :D :D

[nevadacoin]

Anything is possible, the impossible just takes a little longer...EOM

[nevadacoin]

:cool :cool :cool :cool :cool :cool

[BBB454]

I'm also trying to figure out whether to use a wax or polish on the new paint job when I get her back.

Meguiars has a cool tool on their website that recommends which of their products to use based on your car's paint / age / how much time you want to spend / etc...

Here's the link: http://www.meguiars.com/CarRx.cfm

Have fun!

Barb :w

[maxrevs85]

Thanks Barb. It will be a great help.

[Tanzanite3]

Lesley had her little Black Honda (yes, her other car!!) repainted two years ago with black base/clear.. we brought it home from the paint shop within a day of it being sprayed and immediately applied the SUPER Z1, Z2 and Z6.. It now has about three or four applications of Z2 and looks better than it did when new!
I'm sure other products work well .. however my experiences with the Z product is what drove me to become a distributor.. no-one in our city was supplying the best product on the market!!!!

Not the case anymore!

[Guy]

I've used the Meguiars Rx and have been happy with the products, however, I have nothing to compare to, so I sent an order in for my Z products. I want to see what they can do for my 20 year old paint. Going to start off with Dawn (not my wife:D) , then the claybar and go from there. We'll see.

Guy

[silversport]

I have been extremely pleased with Zaino Bros. products...this from a LONG time Meguiar's user...if you like Meg's you should try the show car glaze (#7) followed by Medallion for paint. I found the initial shine to be near the equal of Zaino but it didn't last...do your own tests and draws your own conclusions...

[Guy]

I started with liquid Dawn to strip off the old wax, then used the claybar on the whole car. I can't believe how smooth that 20 year old finish was when I was done! Next came the Z1 Polish Lock (10 min) and the Z5 right on top of that (20 min). After an hour, I removed the glaze and hand buffed the car. What a shine even after only one coat! My swirls and tiny marks are disappearing. The directions say more marks will disappear with each coat.
I'm impressed!

Guy

[Vettelt193]

The one major thing everyone left out is the flexibility of the paint. Since Corvettes are fiberglass, the body panels flex a bit. The bumpers flex even more... Zymol is made to feed the paint oils to keep it flexible and stop it from drying out. This will stop the paint from flaking off of the bumpers... Zymol is also expensive, but the best deal is one of the sampler kits, it runs $99. It includes 3 four oz. containers of wax... (the most expensive wax it includes costs about 500 for 8 oz, so it is a really good deal) the kit also includes a non sized towel (so the paint won't get scratched), detail brush, car wash, and HD Cleanse (the paint cleaner). I have used it for years and it is amazing... the color of the paint is really brought out. Check them out at www.zymol.com

[yankees1]

For a dark colored car I would go with Pinnacle Souveran! I went with Zaino first but Souveran brought out the depth and richness of my paint[03 Ann Red]

[97moneypit]

Originally posted by yankees1
For a dark colored car I would go with Pinnacle Souveran! I went with Zaino first but Souveran brought out the depth and richness of my paint[03 Ann Red]

What did you use to remove the Zaino before applying the Souveran? Or did you need to?

:w

[yankees1]

I have been the Zaino route but now going to Pinnacle Souveran!

[DetailingDude]

Originally posted by 97moneypit
What did you use to remove the Zaino before applying the Souveran? Or did you need to?

:w

3M General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner

[GS Diva]

I went to two auto supply stores yesterday looking for the 3M General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner with no success! Can anyone help me locate some? Or...can I use rubbing alcohol to remove Zaino?

Elaine

[KOPBET]

Originally posted by GS Diva
I went to two auto supply stores yesterday looking for the 3M General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner with no success! Can anyone help me locate some? Or...can I use rubbing alcohol to remove Zaino?

Elaine

Do you have an O'Reillys ? All the stores here have it.

[DetailingDude]

Originally posted by GS Diva
I went to two auto supply stores yesterday looking for the 3M General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner with no success! Can anyone help me locate some? Or...can I use rubbing alcohol to remove Zaino?

Elaine

3M Dealer Locator for MA (http://selector.3m.com/aad_wtb/ss.asp?FAM=distributors&SORD=106+105&FT_106=731&FT_105=675&FT_102=0&FT_104=0)

[mvftw]

D-Dude, how far will 1 spray can go? Will this hurt anything else...glass, rubber, pets?

[DetailingDude]

I don't like the spray. I get the bottle (http://products3.3m.com/catalog/us/en001/government/gsa/node_GSSPN37QHGgs/root_GS3RBW6QFVgv/vroot_GSL4YG63GRge/bgel_8KQKG9H9V8bg/gvel_XVL04HHWJLgl/command_AbcPageHandler/theme_us_gsa_3_0). I keep it around for a ton on things. It is a very versatile product just in case you haven't noticed how often I refer people to it for more than just wax removal.

Mike