how to use zaino...

[Youngin132]

So I'm getting a camaro soon and I want to keep it in pristine condition. I just have few questions washing/polishing/waxing cars since I'm very inexperienced at washing any cars I thought I would ask the people on C5 to help me out. It seems like zaino is the best product out there for your cars but there are way too many products to know which ones to use. So i'm asking how do you guys keep your camaros shiny and looking sharp? and if you use zaino what products do you use?

[Moose]

You're going to get a number of opinions on other products, but if you're going to choose Zaino, I suggest you look at www.zainobros.com, and purchase one of their kits.

I've been using Zaino for a number of years with great success, and as a result, I also do detailing on the side (people request Zaino after seeing my cars).

You'll find ALOT of useful info. in this section as well. Browse the detailing section, and if you don't find answers to your questions, drop me a PM and I'll help you out.

Ed

[2LTRS]

I'm an Adam's user.. Zaino was too much process for me, but offers a nice result. I too do some side work detailing... The best advice I can give you is to research the products yourself, and decide what process is best for you.. Here is a link to the epic Zaino vs Adam's thread. Truth of the matter is they (the two products) are apples and oranges in the detailing world... Pick whats best for you, you can PM me as well if you have any questions related to the Adam's line.

[FB3]

Zaino is very popular with the Corvette folks and I was considering it when I had my C6. However, it is a LOT of work and requires several products. If you are into that kind of stuff, then go for it. It seems to be more oriented to show cars.

I eventually used Rejex on my car. Great finish and much easier to use. You do have to strip (wash with soap) any wax that may be on your car prior to using Rejex the first time, and it should sit inside overnight to cure.

I have been using Mothers FX Synwax on my last car and my new Camaro. It is pretty easy to apply and remove, leaves a fantastic deep wet looking shine, and lasts as long as any of the products out there.

I still use Rejex on my wheels. Makes cleaning super easy.

Just know that none of this stuff will last more than three or four months if you use your care regularly.

The important thing is to get something on your car early. This will really help the looks and longevity of the finish.

[BackinBlackSS/RS]

http://www.zainostore.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc

It's all there. Awesome stuff! Used it for years. The LASTING protection is what is amazing and the car is as smooth as a babys butt.

[bamaproshop]

Anyone use Wolfgang products?

[2LTRS]

Originally Posted by bamaproshop

Anyone use Wolfgang products?

I have a couple of jars of 3oz Fuzion... Its just like any other 'nuba wax... I prefer Americana.

[Youngin132]

how do you clean painted aluminum wheels?

[DEW]

Originally Posted by Youngin132

how do you clean painted aluminum wheels?

The exact same way you clean painted hoods,doors & fenders!

[Stex]

I use the z-2 and Z-5 along with their detail spray/clay bar and have had good results. After reading here a lot, I have now gone to Adams for their drying towels, mitts, buffing towels, grit guard for the two bucket wash to try and not add any damage to the paint.

Knowing what I have learned here, I would not let dealer wash the car on arrival or anythime with their normal brush car wash...Only let them hand wash, two bucket and let me dry it...

Just read a lot at Zaino, adams, junkman etc and after seeing and reading a few times (at least that is what I needed) it will come to you...and like me you will say, gee I have been messing up my ride..glad it is silver...

[2LTRS]

Originally Posted by Youngin132

how do you clean painted aluminum wheels?

Originally Posted by DEW

The exact same way you clean painted hoods,doors & fenders!

Correct!

[porscheis1]

I was dumb enough to run a brand new BMW through a car wash during the winter time and developed swirl marks all over my car. I felt like shooting myself every time i looked at my car. After 2 years of of using Zaino products, i no longer see any swirl marks. It is truly remarkable. The car looks brand new.

[4.0=SS]

Ok, stupid question alert!! Do our cars come from the factory with clear coat? If so, what impact does using sealants, waxes, etc have on the finish?
I opted for the "paint sealant" done by the dealer and my finish is crap! (rough surface, swirl marks) I just turned it in to have it remedied. Truth be told, I wish I hadn't had it done. I would prefer to wax it myself. I do not have the time to do the detailing that I would like to do, but when I do, I like to get it as shiny as possible. That being said, what options do I have now that the "sealant" has been applied?
Thanks for your advice!

[Tecca]

Originally Posted by 4.0=SS

Ok, stupid question alert!! Do our cars come from the factory with clear coat? If so, what impact does using sealants, waxes, etc have on the finish?
I opted for the "paint sealant" done by the dealer and my finish is crap! (rough surface, swirl marks) I just turned it in to have it remedied. Truth be told, I wish I hadn't had it done. I would prefer to wax it myself. I do not have the time to do the detailing that I would like to do, but when I do, I like to get it as shiny as possible. That being said, what options do I have now that the "sealant" has been applied?
Thanks for your advice!

As this will be my last post here at Camaro5 for awhile I will be as straight forward as I can.

Yes every vehicle comes with a clear coat these days.

You first problem was having a dealer detail your car, they use dirty rags, have no technique and in reality use junk that doesn't last or serve any real purpose.

To remove the sealant simply wash it with a citrus soap or Dawn dishwashing soap it will remove all the sealant. Next CLAY your car it will remove any contaminates that was there before the dealer sealed your car and remove any remaining sealant.

As it seams you have swirls and I imagine they are bad since the dealer touched your car you definatly have to polish and the best way is pick up a Porter Cable 7424xp and some polish. I prefer Mequires, Menzerna, or Blackfire but everyone here will say Adams as it is the flavor of the year right now and is a good product as well.

Next step is either Glaze/Seal/Wax everyone has there ideas if you are limited on time I would just seal the car you will be fine with Zaino, Mequires NXT, Blackfire. I am not going into technique as you should read through the posts here that have a lot of great information. After you seal it you can either put a coat of past wax or just layer the sealant it will add depth to the paint and help with the durability.

If I were to suggest a unbiased option on which to choose I would say Zaino. I do not use it but because you are short on time you enjoy waxing your car it will help hide your swirls that the dealer put on and cheaper compared to other suggestions. If you actually want to polish and remove the swirls I would suggest Optimum or Blackfire as they have a great line that will really help you out.

Last don't get caught up in the hype of a certain product they all do the same thing it is all about the approach you want to take to fix the problems and how much time you can invest. Also go through the following websites for some excellent information that isn't biased in any direction.

One more thing have fun it is what makes the process so much more reqarding in the end.

Goodbye all, hope to be back in a few months

http://www.autopia.org/
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/
http://www.detailedimage.com/Ask-a-Pro/
http://www.detailedimage.com/Auto-Detailing-Guide/