Z-5 PRO or FK1?

[TGates]

Which ones did you try?

I got their sample kit which has a car wash, APC, mini buff (polish), a sealant, trim care product, #425, and pink wax. As far as the numbers go, I have no idea, I don't remember. They were okay products, not bad, but I prefer several other brands, including Zaino, over them. I've also tried the FX-1000 spray glaze, and while it very well may be a good product, I haven't personally found it good enough at anything to replace anything else I've already got, if that makes sense.

 

[imported_memnuts]

I like FK because everything just works together, no worrying about something not working right with another. That and cure times...ZERO. I can put on another coat of Pink wax right after I finishing buffing off the first. FX-100 looks absolutely amazing and 1000P is extremely durable and not hard to work with at all.



I really enjoy using their products more and more.

Pink Wax does not cure. The only chemical reaction involved with applying a wax is the evaporation of the wax carrying solvents The sole reason to multiple layer a wax in one detailing session is to insure complete coverage. A repeatable application technique will eliminate these additional applications.



Z-5 PRO or FK1?



With due respect, before making this decision it may be more meaningful to re-evaluation your prep techniques unless you are just addicted to trying new products (I was at one time ). Prep is the essence of a great near final (95%) appearance outcome almost any quality LSP you use can give you that last 5%. Prep for that elusive 95% and you may already have in your present arsenal the product that will satisfy your appearance needs. If extreme great looks, ease of use, value of purchase and durability are not met by any of your previous purchases, Z5PRO will fill that last 5% IMHO.

 

[imported_Bence]

Pink Wax, as a carnauba/synthetic blend, contains poly-resin components, which in fact do cure.

 

[dogma]

Now I find that a bit of a stretch IMHO.



I have tried both of my family's cars and, as racingbeat mentioned, you will probably see little difference at the end product if both are preped right. Durability wise, I am still testing it, zaino would be the best bet. On the roadfly/detailing forum those guys are doing extensive tests with FK (that says something, being they are mostly zaino followers).



That being said, you seem to mention in your origional post that you keep wanting to try new LSPs. Fk would be more versatile with other products as mentioned earlier. Decide what are your top few criterias, and then you should go with whatever fits best, that's what I do whenever I am deciding (afterall, there are ALOT of great LSPs out there...and not enough time/money to try them all). You will be happy either way.

IMO FK1 was just another flavor of the month. Tp answer your question I have and have tried car wash, mini buff ( didn't care for at all),2180 ( not impressed in the least ), Pink wax ( not bad, but no souvrean ) and 425 stuff ( their best product ).



The FK1 line in no comparision to the Zaino line. I also enjoy comparing and trying new products( not on my car though, nothing but Zaino). I have however changed my mind on some other products and that's what my testing is all about.



I also don't compare sealants vs carnuba anymore since they yield different looks. and each is a preference.



FK1 vs IMO the top waxes Souvran,Surluster & Natt'y blue. Pink wax is pretty good ,but didn't yeild the results to me as the other 3.



FK1 vs sealants. IMO 2180 cannot play with the big boys. My top sealants Z5 pro & Z2 pro, AJ and blackfire WD, FMJ has dropped down on my list.



425 good stuff, but its no Z8.

 

[velobard]

I got their sample kit which has a car wash, APC, mini buff (polish), a sealant, trim care product, #425, and pink wax. As far as the numbers go, I have no idea, I don't remember. They were okay products, not bad, but I prefer several other brands, including Zaino, over them. I've also tried the FX-1000 spray glaze, and while it very well may be a good product, I haven't personally found it good enough at anything to replace anything else I've already got, if that makes sense.

IMO, FK1 really ought to include 1000P in their sample kit.

 

[imported_themightytimmah]

I'm a huge FK fan but honestly I think Z-5PRO is a generation ahead of 2180, sealant wise. FK2180 topped with Pink Wax may or may not look better than Z5 Pro to you, it's all a matter of taste. I'd pass over the 1000P, Pink is a lot better looking and the 1000P/2180 combo isn't going to pop as well as Z and won't kill it in depth like PW will. Basically it comes down to the old sealant/carnuba dilemma, if you want gloss and flake, go Zaino, if you want depth and warmth, go FK topped with Pink Wax.

 

[Thomas Dekany]

I think Z-5PRO is a generation ahead of 2180, sealant wise.

Do you mean look wise or protection wise?

 

[imported_themightytimmah]

Look Wise, 2180 is a tad "plasticky". I still use it on a few cars for the winter though, one of them had spot beading 12 months after application. Not gonna beat that durability anywhere.

 

[wannafbody]

for looks it's Tropicare or for looks and durability Z5Pro and Z8. Those are the best 2 looking products on darks IMO.

 

[velobard]

Look Wise, 2180 is a tad "plasticky". I still use it on a few cars for the winter though, one of them had spot beading 12 months after application. Not gonna beat that durability anywhere.

I'm not exactly an FK expert here, but I never really looked at 2180 as anything more than a durable base coat, not generally an LSP. What I'm anxious to try once I can wax again is 2180 x 2, 1000P x 2 to kick up the durability and shine even more, then top with a few layers of PW, NB, or whatever I feel like trying out.



One more thing I'm thinking I'd like to fit into this regimen is RMG but I'm not sure if it would work well or when I'd use it. 2180 is supposed to bond with the paint itself to be able to do its "stuff", so if I was going to use RMG, should it go between 2180 and 1000P? Or since I'm looking at 2180 and 1000P, should it go over both, but under whatever 'nuba I slap on?