Confused? Go figure huh :)

[Balucanb]

Ok help me out guys, I think I might be finally leaving Iraq soon and I want to clean up the 5er before winter. What is the differance between 3MSMR,IHG and FI II? Can I use UPP and then put PS2 over it? Here is the routine/supplies I plan to use:
1. PC polisher
2. MF towels
3. claymagic
4. car wash
5. 3M perfect-it II
6. SMR
7. Platnium UPP (sealant)
8. WAX

I didn't put in any details/steps so you guys could guide me in the proper process. I will be woking with a 98 528 arctic siver car, just had the hood, bumpers and front doors repainted, car has been well taken care or but not garaged, minor swirls never been clayed or
really detailed that I am aware of, looks good now but of course I want it to be better than good. Thanks for any and all advice, please be as specific as possible i.e. use poduct X with your PC etc. Thanks.

 

[CharlesW]

Congratulations on leaving Iraq!! I'm sure it has been quite an experience.

Having used very few 3M products, I can't be of much help with them.
My own routine includes a few Meguiar's items that work in somewhat the same way.

For washing:
Car wash shampoo, not Dawn. I also use Poorboy's Spray & Wipe quite often. Being old school, I still like the bucket wash.

For swirl removal:
Meguiar's #9 Swirl Remover 2.0, I use the PC with a polishing pad. Work it till it is almost gone.

For paint cleaning:
Klasse AIO, by hand or with the PC and a polishing pad. There are those that use a finishing pad with AIO and seem to have good results. It is so easy by hand the PC seems like overkill.

For a sealant:
Platinum UPP, by hand. Some people use the PC for it, but again, it's so easy to use, it is hardly worth getting the PC out. Use a Finishing pad if you do use the PC. Apply it very thin and wait 30-45 minutes to remove. Wait 24 hours befor adding more. 2-3 coats seems to be best for maximum shine & depth.
It really doesn't need a wax topper and I don't use one over the UPP.

For a wax:
S100/P21S Paste Wax, by hand. Another easy to use product. Apply it to a small area and remove immediately. No need to let it dry.

I use foam applicators to apply polish, sealant or wax and MF towels for removal.

Hope you are able to return home soon.