I want to experiment with surface finishing on our 96 black Integra before I work on the Suzuka Blue S2K. The Integra has never been clayed and I don't even know the process.

Is it hard? Does the clay scratch the paint? I wouldn't think so but you would think clay would be abrasive. Do you wash the car afterwards, or just wipe it down? Is it worth the effort?

I bought a Porter Cable and read up on it's use. Zaino is well documented here well as the need for MF towels. It's the clay bar process I have never read about.

Bob

 

Here is what i do. It can be done slightly different, but it works for me. I wash the car to remove loose dirt first and then dry it. Then get a blue clay bar(NOT RED). The red will leave scratches. Spray the panel down your about to work on with a spray wax or you can use water if you want, but the spray wax is better, and spray the clay bar as well. The key is to always kep the surface wet(same goes for in the bedroom-sorry couldn't help it). After you finish, wash the car again and then dry. Then add wax and you will have one smooth paint job. Enjoy

 

After a good washing, I use the Zaino Clay bar..

I have a mix bottle of z7 wash and H20 which I spray on the spots I'm going to clay.

and yes i re-wash and then continue as normal

 

All of the above applies, but in addition, make sure that the clay is kneaded, and rotated frequently, since it too, will get soiled very quickly, and any debris lodged in it's pores could mar your finish. The clay is surprisingly soft; just knead it in the palm of your hands, hiding the "old" used clay, and exposing the "new" clean clay in your block/ball as you work your way around the car.

Also, keep the ball of clay you are working with relatively small. It doesn't need to be more than the size of a walnut. In this way, you won't contaminate all of the clay that you purchase in one go. In addition, the smaller pieces will ensure that you apply equal pressure to the entire ball of clay, thereby eliminating the chance of missing any panels. That said, don't push too hard on the clay as you move it across the panel. Very little pressure is required to remove contaminants from the paint. Keep all unused clay in an airtight container. It lasts almost indefinately if it doesn't dry out.

I use Meguiars Quik-detailer as a lubricant for the clay bar, since it is cheaper, albeit inferior to Z6. Keep the surface you are detailing well lubricated. Drying out leads to increased friction, and may encourage scratching.

And yes, ideally, the car should be washed and dried, after using the clay bar, especially if you will be following up with a wax or polish application.

Good luck!
Asif

 

Just for future reference.......

If its an automotive claybar, it doesnt matter what color it is.

It is a big NO NO to use water and claybars. (says so on EVERY claybar ive ever owned)

 

Funny!

 

btw- make sure you need to clay before you do it... if the car has been around awhile and has not had the paint cleaned or clayed, it prob could use it-
to tell- put your hand in a sandwich type bag and try to drag it across the surface. if it sticks you should clay. if its smooth and does not stick, no need to clay.
after a while you will learn how to tell just by feel. i use the backs of my fingers to "feel" a car.

 

dont clay more than once during 6 months, each time you clay you are really taking off a very thin layer of the clearcoat.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by hecash
Geez, wanabe,

That's kind of erotic.

 

You people have been great with all the feedback here. You've told me more about claying in this one thread than I have ever read elsewhere.

This summer is going to be a blast and the cars will look awesome!

Thanks,
Bob