Need some advice on methodology holes and product suggestions.

E

enuttage

New member
Hi all,

I've been using Zaino products on our three cars for about 2-3 years now.

I really like the results, but also realize that there are a few things I'll need in addition to the Zaino line.

Specifically, I'm looking for a pre-Zaino application prep list from any of you pros. Here's what I've got so far. Help me fill in the blanks if you can:

1. Wash w/ Zaino
2. Dry with cotton (should I begin using MF?)
3. Clay and wipe
4. Apply ZFX + Z-2 solution
5. Wipe down
6. Hit with Z-6
7. Repeat 4-6 if desired/needed

Soon though, I feel like I'll need some true polish, especially on my wife's red MINI, which is looking pretty bad despite its relatively young (2 years) age.

Also, I need recommendations on wheel cleaners and protectants (tires are fine, Zaino actually does a pretty decent tire protectant, IMO). My VW has some nasty corrosive brake dust and some truly inferior paint on the wheels, and it's starting to show. My RX-7 is in the same boat, though not as bad as the VW. And the RX-7 wheels are polished, not painted.

Thirdly, how do you guys usually handle cleaning and protecting painted brake calipers?

Next, recommendations on a good glass re-conditioner and cleaner that is tint-safe.

Next, a recommended plastic/vinyl cleaner and protectant.

Next, what would you use to clean Ultrasuede inserts?

And lastly, leather cleaner/protectant recommendations.

I'm a little overwhelmed by the onslaught of acronyms here, so you may have to spell it out more than you normally would for me.

And I'm also unclear, in perusing Poorboys, what products I need, and what I'm already covering by using the method listed above.

TIA for answering any of my multiple vague questions. :)

-E
 
You definitely need to get you some microfiber(MF or uF...depending on who posts). That should be the fabric that touches your paint. I don't really know all that much about Zaino, as I have never used it. Poorboy's products are all great, as are some of the others on that are talked about here at DC. Four Star has a lot of rave reviews on here and it is very affordable also(especially the leather cleaner and conditioner). I am sure you'll get a lot of posts offering you some direction. GET SOME MF!
 
I would say MF is the best thing you can get. Zesty-man likes the MF, so hopefully he will see this and give you some tips, pointers, etc on MF vs. cotton. For one, I know cotton can possibly mar if it has sewn edges or seams. Microfiber will not scratch or mar (unless you get something in the MF like dirt, grit, etc.) I am sure after hearing from Zesty you will get you some MF!!
 
I havent seen a new acronym list in a long time any where. It is a bare to try to print that thing out. I tried all kinds of re sizing, printing in portrait, etc, still gets stuff cut off. :( I guess I'll just save it for reference
 
I'll help on what I can...

enuttage said:
Soon though, I feel like I'll need some true polish, especially on my wife's red MINI, which is looking pretty bad despite its relatively young (2 years) age.
Click to expand...

Poorboy's SSR line, Meguiar's polishes, etc., to get rid of swirls and cobwebs and other paint defects. After polishing, you may want to do an alcohol / water rinse on the car to remove any oils that the polishes may leave, so that Zaino will not have any troubles bonding. That would also negate the need for a (often argued about) Dawn wash.

Also, I need recommendations on wheel cleaners and protectants (tires are fine, Zaino actually does a pretty decent tire protectant, IMO). My VW has some nasty corrosive brake dust and some truly inferior paint on the wheels, and it's starting to show.
Click to expand...

Eagle One A2Z on the painted wheels. Follow the directions and don't leave it on too long. Works wonders in cutting brake dust and other grime.

You can actually use Z-2 the painted wheels as well (not sure about the polished wheels, check w/ Sal). It will make brake dust easier to remove in the future.

Next, recommendations on a good glass re-conditioner and cleaner that is tint-safe.
Click to expand...

Stoner's Invisible Glass is my favorite glass cleaner.

Next, a recommended plastic/vinyl cleaner and protectant.

And lastly, leather cleaner/protectant recommendations.
Click to expand...

303 Aerospace Protectant or Poorboy's Natural Look. You can use a 6:1 water:Woolite mixture to clean plastics and really pretty much any surface on the interior, including leather.

I've heard good things about Zaino's leather conditioning product... 303 and NL can also be used as a leather protectant.

No idea about suede.

And I'm also unclear, in perusing Poorboys, what products I need, and what I'm already covering by using the method listed above.
Click to expand...

Your Zaino process replaces stuff like EX-P.. paint sealants. Despite the name, I never really had any luck with Z-5 removing swirls. You'll need an abrasive polish to do that -- the SSR line or other abrasive polish. You can top Zaino with Natty's (or other pure carnuba) if you'd like, but you would have to remove the wax when you want to apply another layer of Zaino.

Microfiber is superior to cotton for removing polishes and sealants and waxes. I used MF when I used to use Zaino. Waffle weave microfiber towels are awesome for drying. Check out the PAC forum -- if you hurry, you might be able to score a deal this weekend!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top