How many time can you clay?

klnyc

klnyc

Deep scratch guy.
I think I had clay my car atleast 4 times already during last year.

How many times can you really clay? :confused:
 
Providing you're using a standard fine grade clay, then I don't see why you can't clay as much as you like.



Clay only takes away above surface contamination, it's not actually taking away paint.
 
Cool, I thought it will take out some of clear coating.

Okay, I guess Im doing clayblastic from now on :woot:
 
If you clay "right" (i.e., *very* gently) you won't even take off much LSP, let alone clearcoat. I spot-clay as needed with *every* wash, have for years. Never had a problem. If you're claying so aggressively that it takes off your wax/sealant, you're not doing it right.
 
Gentle claying is like sliding a melting icecube on a counter top. I just use the wait of my fingers to keep the clay on the car.
 
... but can incorrect use of clay scratch a car surface? For example, as you rub the clay along the surface it picks up the debris, if you rub that contaminated surface of clay back over the car are you running the risk of scratching your car with the picked up debris ?
 
Yes but no more so than when you are washing, polishing or waxing your car. Examine your clay often and fold over to an uncontaminated portion as often as needed.
 
As long as you thoroughly wash your car beforehand, and inspect the surface carefully afterwards before you start to clay you should be fine. Use plenty of lube and fold the clay often to expose a fresh side...
 
When I'm claying a previously unclayed car (worst-case scenario), I wash, rinse, then clay each panel using new wash water. Mitt on right hand, clay with left hand--this almost ensures keeping the paint grit-free and the process is very quick. An average car (not a full-sized Harley F150) should take no more than 20 minutes or so using this method.



Axe said:
but that would be every single wipe surely?
Click to expand...
 
Axe said:
but that would be every single wipe surely?
Click to expand...



Pretty much, yeah. What I do is cut my clay up into little pieces and use one for maybe half a panel or so. That way I only knead it a little and the small pieces are easy to knead. I replace it before any contamination works its way back to where it might mar the paint. I save the old clay for wheels, etc.



Yeah, it takes a little time and patience and a *lot* of self-discipline, just as proper *washing* of a vehicle does.



Yeah#2, I go through a lot of clay, but clay is a renewable resource, clearcoat is not ;)
 
SK2003TypeS said:
Gentle claying is like sliding a melting icecube on a counter top. I just use the wait of my fingers to keep the clay on the car.
Click to expand...



Yup, thats what I do now. I use some QD to lube the surface for maxima glide.
 
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