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Many people
assume that polishing and waxing are the same. But, the two
are different processes. Properly cleaning and polishing makes
a world of difference to the outcome and gloss duration of the
paint. Waxing over surfaces that need polishing or compounding
will only create a temporary gloss. Polishing actually deep
cleans the paint by removing oxidation, scratches, spotting,
old wax, swirl marks, and other minor paint defects. Polishes
work with abrasives and/or chemical cleaners to flatten, or
level, the surface. Waxing provides a protective barrier
between the finish and the environment. It also makes your car
look better by allowing the surface to reflect more light
resulting in a high gloss finish. Waxing is the final step for
your painted finish.
There are many different types of
waxes ranging from carnauba waxes, to synthetic sealants, to
highly advanced polymers. Determining which of these to use is
a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the ease
and quickness of a liquid spray-on polymer such as
#69 Hydro
Shine®, while others like the extra long lasting durability of
a hard paste wax such as
#17 E-Z Wax Paste®. Follow the
guidelines below for proper waxing.
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Recommended
Waxing Procedures: |
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STEP 1:
CLAY THE SURFACE, "PAINT CLEANING"
After properly washing
your vehicle, spray Auto Magic®
#49-Body Shine® or Clay Magic® Clay Lube onto a 3' X 3' section of the
vehicle's painted surface. Clay the surface with
#CM-2200 Clay
Magic®. For more info on claying, see
Using Detailing Clay. |
DETERMINE THE PAINTED CONDITION
Each vehicle may require a different process for compounding,
polishing, and waxing. This process depends upon the condition of
the paint. Some vehicles may only need a protective layer of wax
while others may require compounding and polishing. Use the
Paint
Condition Chart to help determine your paint condition.
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FOLLOW THE PAINT CONDITION CHART PROCESS
After you choose your paint condition, follow the recommended repair
with the product choices listed on the
Paint
Condition Chart. Refer to each product technical bulletin for
additional usage and helpful tips. |
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STEP 2A:
APPLY WAX
Apply a thin, straight line of wax directly to the paint. Do not wax in direct sunlight.
If you can't get indoors, get into the shade. For polymer and paint
sealant instructions, follow the recommended directions on the
product's back label. Some sealants are best applied to the applicator
first, not the paint. |
STEP 2B:
HAND BUFF & WIPE
Use a micro fiber towel or applicator pad to wax the paint. Hand
buff in small sections at a time, body panel by body panel. Rub the
wax into the paint using circular, overlapping motions. Let the wax
film dry,
then remove with a clean, soft micro fiber or terry towel. Remove any
remaining wax that may be in cracks, emblems, and molding. |
For more thorough detailing training
& tips,
buy the new Auto Magic
6 Stages of Reconditioning Training Manual!
Click here for more info |
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Know Your Product's
Abrasive
Content Before You Wax
The Auto
Magic® Abrasive Meter is an exclusive quick reference guide to the
aggressive nature of products in the Waxes, Glazes & Compounds
category. Products listed in the green area are mostly waxes or
sealants and are not aggressive. Products in the yellow area contain
mild abrasives. Compounds are the most abrasive and are located in
the red zone. |
Recommended
Auto Magic®
Waxes, Polymers & Paint Sealants:
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