mrodriques

Hi all;

I've got some questions that I hope you all could help me with. I just got a new car a few weeks ago, an '06 Acura TL. It's Black. About 3 days after taking delivery of the car, I noticed that it was loaded up with small swirls and some spider-webbing. None of the swirls can be caught with my fingernails, and the paint does feel pretty smooth. I'd like to give it a good detailing before winter sets in. I live in the Northeast, so that should be like, this weekend!

Here's what I have to date.

PC 7424 w/Edge Pad Kit
XMT 2 & 1 Swirl Remover
Pinnacle Paint Cleanser
Pinnacle Liquid Sov Wax
AG Foam Gun w/DP Foam Gun "stuff"
WG clay kit with the Palm applicator thingy ( Checked the manufacturers site, and I do believe that is the technical description)
Various cleaners for the interior (Pinnacle, also from AG.net)



What I'd like to do to detail the car is the following:

Wash: Foam Gun w/Boars head Brush, yet to be ordered.
Paint Cleanser
XMT 2 & 1 for Swirl Removal
Polish - What would you all recommend for black?
Glaze - What would you all recommend for black?
Wax - I'm thinking Pinnacle Sov Paste? Can I use that with a PC?

So my questions are as follows:

Does this process make sense to you all?
What pads (Edge System) would I be using for each step (I need to order spares)? So far I am pretty comfortable with the orange cutting pad, and very comfortable with the blue and white.
Do the products that I have so far make sense, or is there something easier or better ( I know, that's a relative term)?


Please keep in mind that I am a novice when it comes to detailing, but have gotten a boatload of practice with the PC on my old Deere tractor. Whenever possible, small words would be easiest for me to understand..LOL.


Thanks in advance.

Hawhyen51

Here is standard process used by most:
1. Wash - most use two buckets (one for wash and one for rinsing the mitt) but you have a foam gun so you'll just need one bucket to rinse the brush or mitt. Rinse and dry.

2. Clay -
Note: You can incorporate claying during the rinse using soapy water as a lube.

3. Polish - Start with the least abrasive one first and then work up. As far as pad selection goes, I usually start with a light polishing pad or a light cut pad. Work in sections (2 X 2, 2 X3) and frequently check your work. Don't rush! I would suggest getting a halogen work light if you're working inside.

4. Seal - Use a finishing pad with your favorite sealant/wax at 3-4 speed. Hand buff or use a MF bonnett. I prefer hand application, buff by hand and follow with a MF bonnett at speed 3.

There really is no specific polish for a dark paint. Can't comment on on the XMT line although it was developed for use with a PC. I probably would have stayed with the Advanced Swirl Remover and then followed with the finishing polish. I think you'll be fine with the liquid souveran. I've seen a few cars with it and they looked really good.

What one uses for products is a personal choice. If the product does what it's supposed to and you get the desired results and happy with it, you can't ask for more.