First Serious Detail

[tonio5555]

Hi everybody, in the next week or two I'll be doing my first serious detail on my 2006 Chevy Cobalt LTZ. I spend a lot of time with some guys who are very serious about auto detailing and I've tried to learn as much as I can from the, as well as some lurking I've been doing on these boards. I don't have to cash to shell out for the really expensive detailing products, but if I list what I have maybe someone could give me some general feedback on what to use and how to use it? I don't have a Random Orbital or Porter Cable, I'll be doing all applications by hand applicators and buffing with MF towels.



Here's what I've got, what should I use and how?



Meguair's Gold Class Shampoo (know how to use this one lol, I dry with a waterblade and microfiber)



Gliptone Clay Bar (know how to clay too)



Meguairs Paint Cleaner (Step 1 of the 3 Step)



Mothers Show Car Glaze #7



Turtle Wax Ice Liquid Polish



Turtle Wax Ice Quick Detailer



Zymol Cleaner Wax (Liquid)



Megauir's Gold Class Clear Coat Wax (Paste)



I also have Scratch X which I've been told is garbage even though I've had some mild success with it.



I realize I don't have a Polish, but right now I just want to work with what I've got, as time goes on I'll accumulate more variety and better quality products. Anybody that can give this noob some tips on how to work with what I have would be really appreciated.

 

[FRJR]

Hey tonio, as a recent Autopian, I can add my opinion from my limited experience. I guess you will be using OTC products as I am. I can't comment on any pro products, so I'll leave that to the pros.



Meguair's Gold Class Shampoo - This is a pretty good car wash IMO, produced good suds for me, one of the better car washes I've used.



As for clay, I have used the Blue Clay Magic with great success, reasonably priced. IDK about the Gliptone Clay, I have never used it.



The Meguiars Paint cleaner is okay for removing contaminants and light oxidation, but don't expect it to have any cut or ability to remove some defects such as swirls or scratches. I have made 3 to 5 applications and it did little in that department.



I've used Gold Class liquid, but I have used the NXT paste with better results. I've never used the GC paste though.



ScratchX isn't bad, it does remove oxidation and cobwebs but may require more than 1 application for optimum results. It is mild, and I chose to use it before I go to a more potent product like M105.



For polish, I have used Meguiars Colorx after Scratchx and it did a good job, a step up from the 3 step Meguiars polish. It does help to remove VERY minor defects and does leave a nice depth and gloss. Heard it was also a wax but I follow up with a coat of wax anyway.



Hope it helps,

FRJR