Ask a Professional Detailer...
#281
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
+1 I'm also curious about this.
Also, 2 quick questions:
1. What is the best way to get rid of swirl marks?
2. When de-badging a car, what is the best way to get rid of whats left behind under where the emblem used to be. Thinking about debadging the "350z" emblem off my car this spring, it's been on there for 60k miles and I want to make sure I can get all the crap underneath there completely off.
Thanks.
Also, 2 quick questions:
1. What is the best way to get rid of swirl marks?
2. When de-badging a car, what is the best way to get rid of whats left behind under where the emblem used to be. Thinking about debadging the "350z" emblem off my car this spring, it's been on there for 60k miles and I want to make sure I can get all the crap underneath there completely off.
Thanks.
Greg @ DI
#282
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Greg @ DI
#283
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
thanks for opening up such a thread cause it just so happens that i have really fine scratches from hitting some hoosiers. ill get pics up in a minute. But the only reason why i wanna get rid of them is because I am trading my car in tomorrow (hopefully) and i wanna know how dealers get the car to look really shiny for like a few days until you wash it. I had a friend who detailed and he said they used to use something that makes the clearcoat look great for a few days?
The Meguiar's NXT Tech Wax 2.0is a solid AIO (All In One) product that cleans, polishes and protects all in one step. For local stores it's usually one of the best option available. I personally like the Optimum Poli-Seal just slightly better and it's also a better value per ounce ($15.99 for 32oz bottle).
Keep us posted on what you try and how it turns out.
Greg @ DI
#284
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Hi Greg,
I picked up a silver 06 350Z about 6 months ago. Never been a huge "must-keep-my-car-clean" kinda guy until now. I've been taking my cars to this nice automatic car wash, until a month ago when I learned that it's not really good since they use heavy degreasers. And to top it off, I have never had a car detailed/waxed or anything like that. The previous owner of the 350Z did a great job in keeping it clean and I want to do the same.
So this past weekend I picked up a Meguiar's Headlight restoration kit to remove some of the yellow/oxidation from my headlights. I took about 2 hours of my time and sanded/polished the headlights to a beautiful shine! Looks like it's 90% brand new, except for a few micro-fractures(?). Anyway, I've been reading the Detailed Image blog and Todd Cooperider's blog and I want to start doing the claybar/polishing/waxing thing to the 350Z but I'm a little scared
and I have a budget I need to stick to. I also work full time, but don't mind taking 2-3 or even 4 hours on the weekend to detail the car.
So my question to you, what's the best way (for a newbie like me) to clean/wax my car this weekend to where I end up with a decent gloss? It doesn't need to be showroom quality, but I would like to get rid of some of the swirls. My budget is kinda low. I don't really want to exceed $50-75. I already have a rotary buffer I picked up from garage sale. Just need a new pad. Should I just get a clay bar and paint restoration kit from Meguiar's/Mothers or some other products? I honestly thought about taking my car to this one local detail shop but I really want to do this myself. I feel more satisfaction doing things myself and spending twice the amount of time rather than taking it to someone who doesn't really care about my car as much as I do.
Sorry for the long ramble. I just got off work and I hope I made my self clear. Thank you for your time and the awesome site/blog you guys have. Never thought detailing a car would be such a daunting task! Nothing but respect for you guys at DI.
P.S. I've noticed 2 water spots on my trunk. Can those be removed easily?
I picked up a silver 06 350Z about 6 months ago. Never been a huge "must-keep-my-car-clean" kinda guy until now. I've been taking my cars to this nice automatic car wash, until a month ago when I learned that it's not really good since they use heavy degreasers. And to top it off, I have never had a car detailed/waxed or anything like that. The previous owner of the 350Z did a great job in keeping it clean and I want to do the same.
So this past weekend I picked up a Meguiar's Headlight restoration kit to remove some of the yellow/oxidation from my headlights. I took about 2 hours of my time and sanded/polished the headlights to a beautiful shine! Looks like it's 90% brand new, except for a few micro-fractures(?). Anyway, I've been reading the Detailed Image blog and Todd Cooperider's blog and I want to start doing the claybar/polishing/waxing thing to the 350Z but I'm a little scared
![verysad](https://my350z.com/forum/images/smilies/verysad.gif)
So my question to you, what's the best way (for a newbie like me) to clean/wax my car this weekend to where I end up with a decent gloss? It doesn't need to be showroom quality, but I would like to get rid of some of the swirls. My budget is kinda low. I don't really want to exceed $50-75. I already have a rotary buffer I picked up from garage sale. Just need a new pad. Should I just get a clay bar and paint restoration kit from Meguiar's/Mothers or some other products? I honestly thought about taking my car to this one local detail shop but I really want to do this myself. I feel more satisfaction doing things myself and spending twice the amount of time rather than taking it to someone who doesn't really care about my car as much as I do.
Sorry for the long ramble. I just got off work and I hope I made my self clear. Thank you for your time and the awesome site/blog you guys have. Never thought detailing a car would be such a daunting task! Nothing but respect for you guys at DI.
P.S. I've noticed 2 water spots on my trunk. Can those be removed easily?
Last edited by MarcusFenix; 11-29-2011 at 06:11 PM.
#285
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Hi Greg,
I picked up a silver 06 350Z about 6 months ago. Never been a huge "must-keep-my-car-clean" kinda guy until now. I've been taking my cars to this nice automatic car wash, until a month ago when I learned that it's not really good since they use heavy degreasers. And to top it off, I have never had a car detailed/waxed or anything like that. The previous owner of the 350Z did a great job in keeping it clean and I want to do the same.
So this past weekend I picked up a Meguiar's Headlight restoration kit to remove some of the yellow/oxidation from my headlights. I took about 2 hours of my time and sanded/polished the headlights to a beautiful shine! Looks like it's 90% brand new, except for a few micro-fractures(?). Anyway, I've been reading the Detailed Image blog and Todd Cooperider's blog and I want to start doing the claybar/polishing/waxing thing to the 350Z but I'm a little scared
and I have a budget I need to stick to. I also work full time, but don't mind taking 2-3 or even 4 hours on the weekend to detail the car.
So my question to you, what's the best way (for a newbie like me) to clean/wax my car this weekend to where I end up with a decent gloss? It doesn't need to be showroom quality, but I would like to get rid of some of the swirls. My budget is kinda low. I don't really want to exceed $50-75. I already have a rotary buffer I picked up from garage sale. Just need a new pad. Should I just get a clay bar and paint restoration kit from Meguiar's/Mothers or some other products? I honestly thought about taking my car to this one local detail shop but I really want to do this myself. I feel more satisfaction doing things myself and spending twice the amount of time rather than taking it to someone who doesn't really care about my car as much as I do.
Sorry for the long ramble. I just got off work and I hope I made my self clear. Thank you for your time and the awesome site/blog you guys have. Never thought detailing a car would be such a daunting task! Nothing but respect for you guys at DI.
P.S. I've noticed 2 water spots on my trunk. Can those be removed easily?
I picked up a silver 06 350Z about 6 months ago. Never been a huge "must-keep-my-car-clean" kinda guy until now. I've been taking my cars to this nice automatic car wash, until a month ago when I learned that it's not really good since they use heavy degreasers. And to top it off, I have never had a car detailed/waxed or anything like that. The previous owner of the 350Z did a great job in keeping it clean and I want to do the same.
So this past weekend I picked up a Meguiar's Headlight restoration kit to remove some of the yellow/oxidation from my headlights. I took about 2 hours of my time and sanded/polished the headlights to a beautiful shine! Looks like it's 90% brand new, except for a few micro-fractures(?). Anyway, I've been reading the Detailed Image blog and Todd Cooperider's blog and I want to start doing the claybar/polishing/waxing thing to the 350Z but I'm a little scared
![verysad](https://my350z.com/forum/images/smilies/verysad.gif)
So my question to you, what's the best way (for a newbie like me) to clean/wax my car this weekend to where I end up with a decent gloss? It doesn't need to be showroom quality, but I would like to get rid of some of the swirls. My budget is kinda low. I don't really want to exceed $50-75. I already have a rotary buffer I picked up from garage sale. Just need a new pad. Should I just get a clay bar and paint restoration kit from Meguiar's/Mothers or some other products? I honestly thought about taking my car to this one local detail shop but I really want to do this myself. I feel more satisfaction doing things myself and spending twice the amount of time rather than taking it to someone who doesn't really care about my car as much as I do.
Sorry for the long ramble. I just got off work and I hope I made my self clear. Thank you for your time and the awesome site/blog you guys have. Never thought detailing a car would be such a daunting task! Nothing but respect for you guys at DI.
P.S. I've noticed 2 water spots on my trunk. Can those be removed easily?
DI Packages Washing and Drying Basic Kit - Great washing package
DI Packages DI Gentle Fine Grade Clay Bar 100g & Clay Lube - deep cleans the paint
Optimum Poli-Seal - polishes and seals in one step
I would also pick up a foam applicator and 2x - 4x Microfiber Towels.
The Poli-Seal can help remove light water mark etchings. If that doesn't work try the Meguiar's Ultra-Cut Compound M105.
If you have any other questions please let me know.
Greg @ DI
Last edited by Detailed Image; 12-05-2011 at 06:38 PM.
#286
Registered User
iTrader: (2)
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Glad the thread was what you were looking for. I hope my reply is in time but if not I hope it went well. You can buff out the vast majority of those light marks with a light polish like the Meguiar's Ultra Finishing Polish M205. If you want to just hide it try using a glaze, but some of those marks will still be very visible. Again polishing is very easy and will be much more effective.
The Meguiar's NXT Tech Wax 2.0is a solid AIO (All In One) product that cleans, polishes and protects all in one step. For local stores it's usually one of the best option available. I personally like the Optimum Poli-Seal just slightly better and it's also a better value per ounce ($15.99 for 32oz bottle).
Keep us posted on what you try and how it turns out.
Greg @ DI
The Meguiar's NXT Tech Wax 2.0is a solid AIO (All In One) product that cleans, polishes and protects all in one step. For local stores it's usually one of the best option available. I personally like the Optimum Poli-Seal just slightly better and it's also a better value per ounce ($15.99 for 32oz bottle).
Keep us posted on what you try and how it turns out.
Greg @ DI
#289
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
The only things to be aware of is that some carnauba waxes may have a slightly deeper shine than a cheap sealant. Some cheaper sealants can look plastic like so we don't sell them. The Blackfire Wet Diamond with Polycharger and other premium sealants look phenomenal and are arguably better than many waxes. A good carnauba wax like the ones from Dodo Juice will offer very strong protection that initially is greater than a sealant. However a wax fades much quicker and on average lasts about 2 - 6 weeks where as sealants will last 3 - 6 months. Let me know if you have any other questions and I'll be happy to help.
Greg @ DI
Greg @ DI
#290
Registered User
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
I'm sure this has been asked before, What can I do for the black plastic parts on the side mirrors.....mine are so dull and kills an otherwise BEAUTIFUL car.
#291
New Member
iTrader: (129)
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Now I've found Adams In & Out Spray, not messy at all & is far superior! Check out the video!
http://www.adamspolishes.com/p-517-a...-dressing.aspx
#292
Registered User
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
I was using Black Again which at the time did the job but it was very greasy to work with.
Now I've found Adams In & Out Spray, not messy at all & is far superior! Check out the video!
http://www.adamspolishes.com/p-517-a...-dressing.aspx
Now I've found Adams In & Out Spray, not messy at all & is far superior! Check out the video!
http://www.adamspolishes.com/p-517-a...-dressing.aspx
#294
Registered User
iTrader: (7)
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Just got some matte black wheels and want to keep them clean as possible.
1. What mixture should I use to clean them with Diablo Wheel Gel right now I have a separate bucket and pour a little in the bucket with some water but my old wheels were gloss.
2. I want to clean protect them also make it easier to clean next time. Should I wax them? I don't mind if they a little glossier as I use Tuf Shine to keep my tires nice and shiny
Related products I own:
Black Light
Hybrid V7
Jet Seal 109
Diablo Wheel Gel
Petes 53'
Fade 2 Black One of my favorites btw
Poorboys Polish with Sealant
Tech Wax
Hard Candy
Yes I think I have a problem I like too buy stuff from you too often. You just have such good specials I can't pass them up!!!
1. What mixture should I use to clean them with Diablo Wheel Gel right now I have a separate bucket and pour a little in the bucket with some water but my old wheels were gloss.
2. I want to clean protect them also make it easier to clean next time. Should I wax them? I don't mind if they a little glossier as I use Tuf Shine to keep my tires nice and shiny
Related products I own:
Black Light
Hybrid V7
Jet Seal 109
Diablo Wheel Gel
Petes 53'
Fade 2 Black One of my favorites btw
Poorboys Polish with Sealant
Tech Wax
Hard Candy
Yes I think I have a problem I like too buy stuff from you too often. You just have such good specials I can't pass them up!!!
![bowrofl](https://my350z.com/forum/images/smilies/bowrofl.gif)
#295
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Greg @ DI
#296
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Just got some matte black wheels and want to keep them clean as possible.
1. What mixture should I use to clean them with Diablo Wheel Gel right now I have a separate bucket and pour a little in the bucket with some water but my old wheels were gloss.
2. I want to clean protect them also make it easier to clean next time. Should I wax them? I don't mind if they a little glossier as I use Tuf Shine to keep my tires nice and shiny
Related products I own:
Black Light
Hybrid V7
Jet Seal 109
Diablo Wheel Gel
Petes 53'
Fade 2 Black One of my favorites btw
Poorboys Polish with Sealant
Tech Wax
Hard Candy
Yes I think I have a problem I like too buy stuff from you too often. You just have such good specials I can't pass them up!!!![bowrofl](https://my350z.com/forum/images/smilies/bowrofl.gif)
1. What mixture should I use to clean them with Diablo Wheel Gel right now I have a separate bucket and pour a little in the bucket with some water but my old wheels were gloss.
2. I want to clean protect them also make it easier to clean next time. Should I wax them? I don't mind if they a little glossier as I use Tuf Shine to keep my tires nice and shiny
Related products I own:
Black Light
Hybrid V7
Jet Seal 109
Diablo Wheel Gel
Petes 53'
Fade 2 Black One of my favorites btw
Poorboys Polish with Sealant
Tech Wax
Hard Candy
Yes I think I have a problem I like too buy stuff from you too often. You just have such good specials I can't pass them up!!!
![bowrofl](https://my350z.com/forum/images/smilies/bowrofl.gif)
The TUF SHINE Tire Appearance Kit is awesome for the tires so you are all set there. For the wheels you can protect them with a quality sealant (Jetseal 109) or pick up a product like the Poorboy's World Wheel Sealant.
If you need any other recommendations don't hesitate to ask!
Greg @ DI
#298
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
It may not come out, depends on how long it's been in there. I would suggest using the 303 Fabric & Vinyl Cleaner and a good scrub brush dipped in a tray of hot water. Spray the fabric and let it sit for 1 - 2 minutes then dip the brush in the hot water and agitate the stain in multiple different directions. Do this at least 1 - 2 times and hopefully it's gone. If not my only other thought is a carpet extractor but you're doing a similar process here. Good luck!
Greg @ DI
Greg @ DI
#300
![Default](https://my350z.com/forum/images/icons/icon1.gif)
Let me know if you have any other questions and I'll be happy to help.
Greg @ DI