New to board! Have nOOb question about black trim.

I know this sounds a bit crazy but I once read on the Autoglym web site to use glass cleaner to remove wax stains from trim.



I have tried this method a few time using Stoners IG and other glass cleaners and have had great results. I have used a terry towel cloth and for extra stubborn a tooth brush and have got stains out that I thought were never going to budge.



I would however using a dressing like Meg Gold Class Trim Detailer post cleaning.



Hope it helps



Regards

Tony.

BOUTIQUE SHINE
 
TW85 HHI said:
I have been using AIO lately on all trim and to remove staining on plastic. Trim always looks better than new and I have yet to notice any issues.



BTW, if plastic is porous then why is it used for the storage of liquids and solids? ;)
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Yes, you're right. I guess I'm confusing porous with textured. Most plastic trim is textured, so it soaks up liquids more so than a smooth surface would.
 
gto78 said:
if we assume its dried wax, then what chemicals are effective in removing wax? For instance, he could try a brush and test with alcohol, dawn soap, naptha, mineral spirits, all seperately of course, it's kinda hard to hurt plastic chemically- battery acid and muratic acid are contained in plastic bottles. But the black dyed part of the plastic is probably sensitive. I have a similar problem with my window trim. But on mine it doesnt look like wax, it looks like mold or water spots. The trim is gloss black, and smooth. But looks nasty with all the spots on it, and they don't come off with anything but a ruff pad, and that leaves scratch marks on the trim which have to be polished out.
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Probably the best wax remover is a chemical called Naphtha, and more specifically Naphtha which is derived from petroleum. It will effectively dissolve wax and the silicones which cause staining. It is very commonly used as a solvent for many types of waxes. The main ingredient in 3M Adhesive Remover is Naphtha, which is why I recommend it for wax removal. It's safe to use on plastic (it often is sold in a plastic container). If you ever take your vehicle to have professional pin striping or decals installed, the product they will most likely use to prep the surface is VM&P Naphtha. This is probably the best stuff, but it's harder to find than good old 3M Adhesive Remover. Anything that's used needs to be agitated with a soft bristled brush.
 
If those marks are infact wax stains, then I'd use APC+ worked in with a sponge or an old soft toothbrush - works a treat for me. Then follow with your favorite exterior vinyl dressing.



I done my father-in-laws car with this method a while back and they came up like new again - I'd never seen black vinyl in such a state! He must of just completely waxed over the trim aswell as the paintwork! Some people are just never gonna be Autopians! :p
 
Welp, I broke out the good ol 3M Adhesive Remover. Spots aren't still there. I'm starting to think that the plastic just needs to be redyed.
 
Yes, I tried the AIO this morning. It didn't work, I think the bumpers have too much texture. If they were smoother, I think it would've made a difference.



Here's a pic of the trim surface pattern, I think it's too much for Klasse to be effective.



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This afternoon I tried the 3M adhesive Remover. It didn't do the job either.



I'll be calling Ketch on Monday to get the trim restorer kit. Thanks for your help guys!
 
If 3M adhesive and a soft brush didn't get it, then you probably have some problem other than wax stains. I've never ran into any wax stains that this didn't at least make a significant difference in just a few minutes.
 
Your trim really does not have any greater of a texture than the trim I have used AIO on. Did you try a high pile cloth? If so, then it is more than just residue.
 
Oh well... :(



I gotta say though, you guys are an extremely dedicated bunch! Hope I can help others the same way you helped me. Thanks again!
 
Try one other product before giving up on the cleaning idea--Meguiar's #39. Not sure if you have a Boater's World or West Marine where you live but they typically carry it.
 
Oddly enough, I have a friend that works at one at the Cincinnati Mills area. I'll give him a call and see if I can put it too the test. Unfortunatly, I won't be able to do it until Monday.



There's a Smythe Automotive that carries a wide variety of Meguairs products, anything I've ever needed, they've stocked it. I'll give them a call tomorrow to see if they have it.
 
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