Dawn question

S

superstring

New member
Hi Folks



I know there's some difference of opinion about whether or not to use Dawn as an initial wash to remove old wax etc. ("Dawn is for dishes").



For the purpose of this question, however, let's assume it is useful in some circumstances.



I'm wondering what it is about Dawn, in particular, rather than some other dish detergent, that makes it the detergent of choice?



Thanks!
 
~One man’s opinion / observations ~



For most on this forum * there is no detergent of choice*



I think washing a vehicle with Dawn was a pre Zanio step instigated by Sal Zanio (if you want to prep paintwork try Dupont’s Prepsol)



Washing-up liquids should not be used on vehicles bodywork as their concentrated detergent and usually high sodium / high alkaline detergent soaps content will remove polish / wax and dry out the protective oils from the paint film, rubber and vinyl surfaces. They will emulsify, breakdown and leach out oils naturally found in your paint, and also any oils you have applied in the way of a polish or glaze. Generally avoid the use of household cleaning products for automotive detailing as they are formulated for an entirely different type of cleaning.





~Hope this helps~



Experience unshared; is knowledge wasted…/



justadumbarchitect *so I question everything*
 
TOGWT is correct. Sal Zaino did (to the best of my knowledge) start the Dawn soap regimen. I use it if I am starting a big-time detail...otherwise I use Zaino soap. Sal explained to me that Dawn would take off all the old wax, etc. He DOES NOT recommend Dawn for regular car washing.



I'd agree with TOGWT that Dawn may be a bit too much for regular car washing, but I don't see how it could be harmful for an occaisional wash, especially if it is rinsed well. I have spoken with Sal Zaino many times and he really knows his stuff. At one time he was a custom painter and that is what led him to the polish business.



I would rather use Dawn every now and then, over using a chemical-slovent like Grease and Wax remover or Prep-Sol. I would think these solvents to be much stronger than the Dawn.



Just my .02.
 
Thanks for the replies.



I hear what you're saying, but I'm trying to figure out why "Dawn" as opposed to some other detergent? Or is "Dawn" just a generic term for all dish detergents, rather than a specific product "recommendation"?
 
Actually, there are stronger dish soaps out there. I believe Ivory and the Yellow bottle one is more alkaline. The reason Blue Dawn was recommend was because it didn't have the perfumes, skin conditioners etc added to the formula.



In my opinion, what to use on your finish depends greatly on what you are trying to achieve.



If you are going to do a heck of detail and want to strip everything off the paint. Then Prepsol or a properly diluted APC would be best.



If you just want to clean up the paint and remove residual oils before applying a sealant to ensure maximum bonding. In my opinion, any good car soap is fine but if you want to use Blue Dawn that's fine. Just understand Dawn's use is only part of a program and shouldn't be used without understanding of why it's being recommended.



My personal approach is to:



1. Wash with a good car soap (GC Meguiars or 00)

2. Clean off any bugs/tar using a BT remover.

3. Clay with a water downed QD as a lubricant.

4. Wash with a good car soap (GC Meguiars or 00)

5. Polish

6a. If going with a wax, the glaze and protect.

6b. If going with a sealant, wash and protect.

7. Quick Detail



Paco
 
You can use and dawn or any other brand. It is used to strip wax in a polish application, I tried the normal car wash on a wax based car and got some streaking. And I know others who did'nt use the dishwash soap in the first step and thought Zaino was crap, but when they used the Dawn the results where what they were seeking.
 
Dawn is widely available, inexpensive, tested by Zaino, and safe for the occasion use as described. The suggestion of a generic dish detergent would open liability questions if the product chosen didn't do the job and/or damaged the finish. Some might use an abrasive containing product, or even a powder or granular preparation or a dishwasher detergent. The bottom line is to Keep It Simple and Specific (KISS principle). Never underestimate the power of human stupidity!
 
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