Waxes 101: Types of Waxes & Their Uses

j.arnaldo · 03-10-2010, 07:26 AM

Alexus: Have you either tried or heard of PRESTONE'S SYNTHETIC WAX? It ain't to well-known of, yet, but its price and quality will make it stand out in the near future--I believe. I got it over at Ft. Buchanan (Army Post) 'cause it's only $4.95 for a 32-oz bottle, and I'm very satisfied with it. Greetings!

Sandra Dee · 04-22-2010, 11:48 AM

hi! I am a firm believer in asking someone a question who has experience in the field. I just bought the Wolfgang kit from autogeek-have a new 370Zroadster in black cherry. I was going to work on it soon-dealer told me to wax it when ever I wanted-

Any tips? I am going to do the two bucket/sheepskin mitt like you said-microfiber to dry? I am pretty much a novice since someone else usually washed /waxed my 350. Thanks!

NXTAZEE · 04-22-2010, 06:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sandra Dee

hi! I am a firm believer in asking someone a question who has experience in the field. I just bought the Wolfgang kit from autogeek-have a new 370Zroadster in black cherry. I was going to work on it soon-dealer told me to wax it when ever I wanted-

Any tips? I am going to do the two bucket/sheepskin mitt like you said-microfiber to dry? I am pretty much a novice since someone else usually washed /waxed my 350. Thanks!

What kit did you buy? Yes use the two bucket wash system or a foam gun and a rinse bucket, which is my personal favorite. Clean bugs and bird droppings of the paint ASAP so they don't etch into the clear. Seal up the paint frequently,as most waxes and sealants only provide good protection for about a month, depending on the weather and how often you wash the vehicle. Clean your rims weekly and use a rim sealant to protect them. Brake dust is highly corrosive and will damage the clear coat on the rims. Oh and one more thing, enjoy your new ride as it is one awesome machine.

Sandra Dee · 04-23-2010, 08:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NXTAZEE

What kit did you buy? Yes use the two bucket wash system or a foam gun and a rinse bucket, which is my personal favorite. Clean bugs and bird droppings of the paint ASAP so they don't etch into the clear. Seal up the paint frequently,as most waxes and sealants only provide good protection for about a month, depending on the weather and how often you wash the vehicle. Clean your rims weekly and use a rim sealant to protect them. Brake dust is highly corrosive and will damage the clear coat on the rims. Oh and one more thing, enjoy your new ride as it is one awesome machine.

thank you so much-I appreciate your time to write back. I got the concours kit-sealant,polish and auto bath. It says to let the sealant sit for 12 hours without rain or dew-so I will wait for clear cool day and start in the morning.I do not have a garage but I did buy a cover for the car.

FricFrac · 03-12-2010, 01:34 AM

...and book me in for a cruise sometime as well.... you've got to spend some time on the road so you have something to clean and polish

azn370z · 03-14-2010, 07:01 PM

I usually Wash, clay, wash, and zaino polish. However I'm willing to try Optimum Car Wax. Do I have to add any other product after I wax it? I looked at autotopia and it has way too much info. Thanks

NXTAZEE · 03-14-2010, 11:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by azn370z

I usually Wash, clay, wash, and zaino polish. However I'm willing to try Optimum Car Wax. Do I have to add any other product after I wax it? I looked at autotopia and it has way too much info. Thanks

No. Try 2-3 coats, makes it much slicker and adds more gloss.

medford · 03-15-2010, 01:43 AM

Just picked up the new Z today. Having the tinting done and an Xpel clear bra installed tomorrow. Will wash and wax the day after. Wondering what type of cleaning and waxing is safe to use over the clear bra?

NXTAZEE · 03-15-2010, 11:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by medford

Just picked up the new Z today. Having the tinting done and an Xpel clear bra installed tomorrow. Will wash and wax the day after. Wondering what type of cleaning and waxing is safe to use over the clear bra?

Wait a few days before washing. After washing use a polymer base sealant. The installer will probably have a sealant you can purchase from him. Stay away from waxes as they will build up on the edges and look bad.

Crazy8 · 03-25-2010, 05:32 PM

Has anyone heard of a polish called Glare? It has a glassplexin in it.

mjch3n · 03-27-2010, 09:41 PM

Thanks guys, this thread helped a lot. After getting my Z from the dealer it had some nasty swirls from what i guess was their machine buffer. So, I used Meguiar's Swirl-X, and then some Turtle Wax polishing compound on the deeper scratches to buff them out. Clay bar'd with Meguiar's clay bar kit and then did one step of Turtle Wax Ice (Polishing Paste). Lastly, did 3 coats of Meguiar's Gold Class Paste Wax by hand and she really shines.

Alexus · 03-31-2010, 10:53 AM

Haven't chimed in in a long time, but I'll post my opinion on Zaino products tonight.

Azathoth · 04-01-2010, 10:24 AM

I spent a good 5 hours reading autopia threads and washing/waxing threads here on the370z.com. I decided on Meguiar's. On Meguiar's website, I did the enter "Meguiar's Rx Plus Interactive Experience" and it bought the following for use on my 2010 370Z Nismo (1 mos old, 1800 miles):

Gold Class Bug & Tar Remover
Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo & Conditioner
Gold Class Trim Detailer
Smooth Surface Clay
Scratch X
NXT Generation Tech Wax 2.0
Ultimate Quick Detailer
Natural Shine Protectant Wipes
NXT Generation Glass Cleaner

I picked up a couple of their microfiber wash mitts, supreme shine microfiber towels, super suede drying towels, and some even-coat applicators. I also snagged two wash buckets w/ dirt filter and lids.

Sunday morning, I'm waking up before the sun and beginning. I plan on: Washing, Bug/Tar Removing, Washing again, Detailing the Exterior Trim, Claying the vehicle, Scratch X'ing any swirls or imperfections, Wax, then clean the windows. Then use the Quick Detailer to fix up any spots I missed.

I fully expect to be at this all day, sunday. Washing outside and doing the rest inside a garage. I do not have a buffing machine, because part of the wash/waxing job is to make my arms stronger, so I plan on being in pain on Monday.

I have an extra MF mitt and extra MF towel I plan on using on the tires/wheels. Since the Z's manual says not to use dressing on the tires, I plan on Only washing them. Then, using the wipes for the interior (which still looks brand new).

Question: Am I missing anything?

NXTAZEE · 04-01-2010, 11:42 AM

Congrats on the new ride. Yes those are decent products. I'm not a fan of Micofiber wash mitts, as they are not as gentle as sheep skin mitts. But they should be fine as long as you don't scrub the paint as you wash. I see you bought Scratch X, what do you plan on doing with that? It's fine if you are removing some light marring in a couple of small spots, but not to remove marring from the entire car though. Have fun and let us know how you make out.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Azathoth

I spent a good 5 hours reading autopia threads and washing/waxing threads here on the370z.com. I decided on Meguiar's. On Meguiar's website, I did the enter "Meguiar's Rx Plus Interactive Experience" and it bought the following for use on my 2010 370Z Nismo (1 mos old, 1800 miles):

Gold Class Bug & Tar Remover
Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo & Conditioner
Gold Class Trim Detailer
Smooth Surface Clay
Scratch X
NXT Generation Tech Wax 2.0
Ultimate Quick Detailer
Natural Shine Protectant Wipes
NXT Generation Glass Cleaner

I picked up a couple of their microfiber wash mitts, supreme shine microfiber towels, super suede drying towels, and some even-coat applicators. I also snagged two wash buckets w/ dirt filter and lids.

Sunday morning, I'm waking up before the sun and beginning. I plan on: Washing, Bug/Tar Removing, Washing again, Detailing the Exterior Trim, Claying the vehicle, Scratch X'ing any swirls or imperfections, Wax, then clean the windows. Then use the Quick Detailer to fix up any spots I missed.

I fully expect to be at this all day, sunday. Washing outside and doing the rest inside a garage. I do not have a buffing machine, because part of the wash/waxing job is to make my arms stronger, so I plan on being in pain on Monday.

I have an extra MF mitt and extra MF towel I plan on using on the tires/wheels. Since the Z's manual says not to use dressing on the tires, I plan on Only washing them. Then, using the wipes for the interior (which still looks brand new).

Question: Am I missing anything?

Azathoth · 04-05-2010, 02:48 PM

I didn't have to use the ScratchX... that'll probably go into storage for a year or two. Clay on my new car was useless as well, after claying the hood, roof and side panels, I had 3 specs of dirt on my clay (though my hand might have been dirty)

I did use too much wax, even though I let it dry/harden for ~ 30mins, there was still residue left over. A friend noted the right amount to use, and I used about 10x that amount! A small circle of product on a sponge is all you need for entire sections of the vehicle!

Otherwise, life is good. I did find that a microfiber towel dries the vehicle much better than an old school Shammy... Man, how things have changed!

03-10-2010, 07:26 AM	#1 (permalink)
j.arnaldo Banned Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Puerto Rico Posts: 937 Drives: Nissan 350Z, 2004 Rep Power: 0	Alexus: Have you either tried or heard of PRESTONE'S SYNTHETIC WAX? It ain't to well-known of, yet, but its price and quality will make it stand out in the near future--I believe. I got it over at Ft. Buchanan (Army Post) 'cause it's only $4.95 for a 32-oz bottle, and I'm very satisfied with it. Greetings! Last edited by j.arnaldo; 03-10-2010 at 07:28 AM.

04-22-2010, 11:48 AM	#2 (permalink)
Sandra Dee Base Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: NC Posts: 215 Drives: 370ZRdstr BLK Cherry Rep Power: 16	Hey NXTAZEE! hi! I am a firm believer in asking someone a question who has experience in the field. I just bought the Wolfgang kit from autogeek-have a new 370Zroadster in black cherry. I was going to work on it soon-dealer told me to wax it when ever I wanted- Any tips? I am going to do the two bucket/sheepskin mitt like you said-microfiber to dry? I am pretty much a novice since someone else usually washed /waxed my 350. Thanks!

03-12-2010, 01:34 AM	#5 (permalink)
FricFrac A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Victoria, BC Posts: 1,481 Drives: 370Z 300ZX 280ZX 240 Rep Power: 229	...and book me in for a cruise sometime as well.... you've got to spend some time on the road so you have something to clean and polish __________________ '09 370Z - '93 300ZX Vert - '83 280ZX - '83 280ZXT -'81 280ZXT stroker - '72 240Z - Stillen CBE, HFC, G3, Grounding Kit, Sways // Swift Spring // H&R 15mm // 5% Tint // Clear Bra //

03-14-2010, 07:01 PM	#6 (permalink)
azn370z A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Seattle Posts: 1,722 Drives: z34 - R1 Rep Power: 490	I usually Wash, clay, wash, and zaino polish. However I'm willing to try Optimum Car Wax. Do I have to add any other product after I wax it? I looked at autotopia and it has way too much info. Thanks __________________ 2010 k23 H&R sport springs / Spc rear camber arms / SSR SP1 / Berk cbe / Varis cf lip / Nismo S-Tune side skirts

03-15-2010, 01:43 AM	#8 (permalink)
medford Base Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Medford, OR Posts: 3 Drives: 2009 370Z touring/sp Rep Power: 16	Wax safe for a clear bra? Just picked up the new Z today. Having the tinting done and an Xpel clear bra installed tomorrow. Will wash and wax the day after. Wondering what type of cleaning and waxing is safe to use over the clear bra?

03-25-2010, 05:32 PM	#10 (permalink)
Crazy8 Enthusiast Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Tennessee Posts: 255 Drives: 09 370Z Rep Power: 16	Has anyone heard of a polish called Glare? It has a glassplexin in it.

03-27-2010, 09:41 PM	#11 (permalink)
mjch3n Enthusiast Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Bay Area Posts: 296 Drives: slow Rep Power: 16	Thanks guys, this thread helped a lot. After getting my Z from the dealer it had some nasty swirls from what i guess was their machine buffer. So, I used Meguiar's Swirl-X, and then some Turtle Wax polishing compound on the deeper scratches to buff them out. Clay bar'd with Meguiar's clay bar kit and then did one step of Turtle Wax Ice (Polishing Paste). Lastly, did 3 coats of Meguiar's Gold Class Paste Wax by hand and she really shines. __________________ Powered by Safeway Gasoline

03-31-2010, 10:53 AM	#12 (permalink)
Alexus Base Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Montreal, QC Posts: 178 Drives: The Beast Rep Power: 17	Haven't chimed in in a long time, but I'll post my opinion on Zaino products tonight. __________________ "The object of war is not to die for your country but to make the other bastard die for his." -General George S. Patton Jr., 1885-1945

04-01-2010, 10:24 AM	#13 (permalink)
Azathoth Base Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: nowhere Posts: 58 Drives: nothing Rep Power: 16	I spent a good 5 hours reading autopia threads and washing/waxing threads here on the370z.com. I decided on Meguiar's. On Meguiar's website, I did the enter "Meguiar's Rx Plus Interactive Experience" and it bought the following for use on my 2010 370Z Nismo (1 mos old, 1800 miles): Gold Class Bug & Tar Remover Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo & Conditioner Gold Class Trim Detailer Smooth Surface Clay Scratch X NXT Generation Tech Wax 2.0 Ultimate Quick Detailer Natural Shine Protectant Wipes NXT Generation Glass Cleaner I picked up a couple of their microfiber wash mitts, supreme shine microfiber towels, super suede drying towels, and some even-coat applicators. I also snagged two wash buckets w/ dirt filter and lids. Sunday morning, I'm waking up before the sun and beginning. I plan on: Washing, Bug/Tar Removing, Washing again, Detailing the Exterior Trim, Claying the vehicle, Scratch X'ing any swirls or imperfections, Wax, then clean the windows. Then use the Quick Detailer to fix up any spots I missed. I fully expect to be at this all day, sunday. Washing outside and doing the rest inside a garage. I do not have a buffing machine, because part of the wash/waxing job is to make my arms stronger, so I plan on being in pain on Monday. I have an extra MF mitt and extra MF towel I plan on using on the tires/wheels. Since the Z's manual says not to use dressing on the tires, I plan on Only washing them. Then, using the wipes for the interior (which still looks brand new). Question: Am I missing anything?

04-05-2010, 02:48 PM	#15 (permalink)
Azathoth Base Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: nowhere Posts: 58 Drives: nothing Rep Power: 16	I didn't have to use the ScratchX... that'll probably go into storage for a year or two. Clay on my new car was useless as well, after claying the hood, roof and side panels, I had 3 specs of dirt on my clay (though my hand might have been dirty) I did use too much wax, even though I let it dry/harden for ~ 30mins, there was still residue left over. A friend noted the right amount to use, and I used about 10x that amount! A small circle of product on a sponge is all you need for entire sections of the vehicle! Otherwise, life is good. I did find that a microfiber towel dries the vehicle much better than an old school Shammy... Man, how things have changed!