New to this game

[stalebreadjr]

Hey all!

 

I am definitely a newbie when it comes to car detailing and have stumbled on these products via instagram and so far I am definitely hooked on them.  I have a full size truck and a small jeep and they are garage kept vehicles.  So far I've played the roulette of mystery buckets so that I could try out a few things.  Now that I have 2 buckets and grit guard and essential wash pads and such, I have the basics from what I can tell watching the adams videos for the 2 bucket wash and I've followed that process.  It works great!  I dried my vehicles with the great white towel method.  

 

My big question here is what process should I follow to protect my vehicles.  I'm a little confused by the waxing versus sealing versus coating difference.  I really would like to try the ceramic spray on my vehicles but I don't know what is the proper process to get my vehicle to the point to apply.  I can tell that the video instruct thorough washing and claying (visco clay is in my cart preparing to be purchased) but I'm unsure of what to do next. 

Is it proper to just prep and ceramic spray?   

Should I wax the car first and then follow? 

Should I ceramic spray and then use ceramic boost periodically?

I'm pretty lost when it comes to anything more than the basic wash and care of a vehicle but I'm open to all suggestion! 

 

Thanks in advance!

- stalebreadjr

[falcaineer]

Welcome to the addiction, Matt! Let's see some pics of your rides...

 

With ceramics, prep is everything. You should not have anything underneath of a coating (or paint sealant) because it has to bond to bare paint to work properly.

 

Steps for ceramic spray would be strip wash, clay, paint correct, surface prep (spray), and finally, Ceramic Spray. Recommend you use the grey Microfiber applicator pad vs the small suede applicator to speed up the process. Spray the product directly onto the pad an apply evenly in a crosshatch pattern.

 

Check out the article below on protection options.

 

 

[stalebreadjr]

Thanks Chris! This is the kind of info I'm looking for exactly.  And yes.... I'm sure this is now considered my new addiction 🤣! BTW, here is the compass newly washed and my 2016 dodge RAM attached. 

[falcaineer]

Not one, but TWO black cars. 🤯 You're a true glutton for punishment! 😂 

[stalebreadjr]

Ha! The struggle is real! That's why finding these products was a light bulb for sure! 

[Yo-Yo Ma's Cousin]

Hi Matt! Welcome to the Forums!

 

I ceramic coated my vehicle and have not regretted it one but. It was worth all the time and effort!

 

people on the forums will be happy to help and share their experiences! Feel free to ask any more questions!

[stalebreadjr]

8 minutes ago, Yo-Yo Ma's Cousin said:

Hi Matt! Welcome to the Forums!

 

I ceramic coated my vehicle and have not regretted it one but. It was worth all the time and effort!

 

people on the forums will be happy to help and share their experiences! Feel free to ask any more questions!

Thanks Juan.  If you don't mind me asking... which products did you use?  I am looking at the spray coating kit that has the prep, the spray coating, the applicators and double soft towels.   Also, do you use the ceramic boost at all? If so, when and how often? 

[Yo-Yo Ma's Cousin]

Yes, that’s probably the best way to go, but I would probably not use those towels for the actual ceramic coating application or leveling. Now this is because since the ceramic will dry into whatever towel you use to apply/level it. The dried ceramic in the towe can cause scratches in the future. So I normally use some cheaper towels and save the Adams single or double soft towels to use for different tasks. Because Adams towels are really nice and really premium, so I would hate for them to no longer be usable after the first use. - all this being said, The towels in the kit would work very well. I just try to save a few dollars and really like Adams towels. but Adams sells some suede removal towels that are a bit cheaper and I have less heartache throwing those away when I’m done with them.

 

yes I have ceramic boost, and it’s meant to be used about once every 4-6 weeks. 

[stalebreadjr]

Awesome. Thanks for the advice.  I think the kit also has 2 grey suede rectangle applicators for the ceramic coating.  Would those suffice for application? I also actually scored the ceramic boost already in my mystery bucket, so, visco clay kit and ceramic kit seems to be all im missing.   Oh and I'm definitely taking Chris's advice of using the strip wash first as well. 

 

I can't tell you how much this helps! With so many products to choose from, narrowing it down and having a plan is tough! 

[Rich]

Welcome to the forum Matt!  I just went back to black, and already regret it.   Just sort of kidding.  It's a job.  

 

[stalebreadjr]

24 minutes ago, Rich said:

Welcome to the forum Matt!  I just went back to black, and already regret it.   Just sort of kidding.  It's a job.  

 

Thanks for the welcome and I know Rich.... it's a constant WIP! 😑 but when she's clean.... man she looks good! Lol! Im glad you are bearing the burden with me. You can always say "at least i don't have 2 like stalebreadjr! " 😁

[Yo-Yo Ma's Cousin]

1 hour ago, stalebreadjr said:

Awesome. Thanks for the advice.  I think the kit also has 2 grey suede rectangle applicators for the ceramic coating.  Would those suffice for application? I also actually scored the ceramic boost already in my mystery bucket, so, visco clay kit and ceramic kit seems to be all im missing.   Oh and I'm definitely taking Chris's advice of using the strip wash first as well. 

 

I can't tell you how much this helps! With so many products to choose from, narrowing it down and having a plan is tough! 

I would absolutely use the strip wash also. It will help to get your paint as naked as possible.

 

i can give you a full write up about the products I used and my Process. Are you in a hurry to place an order?

[stalebreadjr]

5 minutes ago, Yo-Yo Ma's Cousin said:

I would absolutely use the strip wash also. It will help to get your paint as naked as possible.

 

i can give you a full write up about the products I used and my Process. Are you in a hurry to place an order?

No I'm not.  That is actually why I posted here.  I didn't expect the quick responses and don't plan to order until I'm sure what I'm getting.   I know for sure that im getting the strip wash and visco clay kit.  I have the basics from my previous 2 orders to keep me going for the moment.   I would absolutely be interested in what you used specifically and your methodology. That is way above my expectations.  

[RayS]

Hi Matt,

welcome to the forum.  You are a glutton for punishment, but I also recognize that a Black will look almost as good as a Red one when polished out.

 

If you are planning a trip to Myrtle Beach or central SC, you will be going near my house, I just off I-20 outside of Columbia.  Given that Georgia has the same weather pattern as SC, you will need to adjust for the heat and humidity.  Of course, the flip side is that we can wash outside all 12 months of the year.  I have found that after I wash, I put the vehicle in the garage immediately to get out of the sun to start the drying process.

 

On each side of the garage bay, I have a fan that blows from the back toward the open door.  The fans don’t blow on the vehicle, just along side to keep the air moving and me cool.   I have the Stanley fans so I can change the volume, angle and they have power outlets, it was a really good investment.   https://www.amazon.com/Stanley-655704-Velocity-Blower-Yellow/dp/B006O6FA22/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=Stanley+fan&qid=1562459214&s=gateway&sr=8-2

 

I use a variety of Adams products according to what the vehicle is and the results that I’m looking for.  For the top tier vehicles, Mustang, Colorado and Terrain, they all get Ceramic Paste Wax and the Terrain, which we just got a couple weeks ago, will be getting a professional ceramic coating.  Everything else gets anything from LPS to HGG and various combinations in between.  

 

When it gets much above 90 and the humidity is hovering at 60 or so,  Ceramic Boost and HGG can both be challenging, at 90+ and humidity at 75 or more even Brilliant Glaze takes a bit to cure as does American, Patriots and Ceramic Paste Wax.   Just don’t try to do too many panels at once, even if the cure time time gets to be a bit long, all it takes is a sudden drop in Humidity and then you are trouble.  I have used the products enough in the heat and humidity that I can judge it pretty good now,  it I never do more than two panels at a time.

 

The humidity does not seem to affect Waterless Wash at all or the regular Spray Wax, so I tend to do vehicles that need a touch up on the rainy weekends.

[falcaineer]

2 hours ago, stalebreadjr said:

I think the kit also has 2 grey suede rectangle applicators for the ceramic coating.  Would those suffice for application?

 

They will, but I highly suggest you get and use the grey microfiber applicator pads instead, https://adamspolishes.com/adam-s-microfiber-applicator-pads-2-pack.html Spray the coating spray directly onto the pad, 4-5 sprays or so, and apply. It's a tip I learned from the guys at the Shine Stop at Adam's HQ and its a lifesaver! I also suggest you use the suede towels to remove the residue once it rainbows, https://adamspolishes.com/suede-microfiber-towel.html Using a single or double soft will work, but it removes more of the remaining coating than the suede and could therefore shorten its longevity.

 

Also, for any hard plastic trim, just wipe it on, or even spray directly on the trim, and it will self level. No need to wipe away that residue. Time saving tip.

[Yo-Yo Ma's Cousin]

58 minutes ago, stalebreadjr said:

No I'm not.  That is actually why I posted here.  I didn't expect the quick responses and don't plan to order until I'm sure what I'm getting.   I know for sure that im getting the strip wash and visco clay kit.  I have the basics from my previous 2 orders to keep me going for the moment.   I would absolutely be interested in what you used specifically and your methodology. That is way above my expectations.  

I will do that. I’ll do that as soon as I get to my computer.

 

and I agree with Chris about the microfiber applicator. It’s just a bigger applicator, therefore shortening the time required to apply

[stalebreadjr]

46 minutes ago, RayS said:

Hi Matt,

welcome to the forum.  You are a glutton for punishment, but I also recognize that a Black will look almost as good as a Red one when polished out.

 

If you are planning a trip to Myrtle Beach or central SC, you will be going near my house, I just off I-20 outside of Columbia.  Given that Georgia has the same weather pattern as SC, you will need to adjust for the heat and humidity.  Of course, the flip side is that we can wash outside all 12 months of the year.  I have found that after I wash, I put the vehicle in the garage immediately to get out of the sun to start the drying process.

 

On each side of the garage bay, I have a fan that blows from the back toward the open door.  The fans don’t blow on the vehicle, just along side to keep the air moving and me cool.   I have the Stanley fans so I can change the volume, angle and they have power outlets, it was a really good investment.   https://www.amazon.com/Stanley-655704-Velocity-Blower-Yellow/dp/B006O6FA22/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=Stanley+fan&qid=1562459214&s=gateway&sr=8-2

 

I use a variety of Adams products according to what the vehicle is and the results that I’m looking for.  For the top tier vehicles, Mustang, Colorado and Terrain, they all get Ceramic Paste Wax and the Terrain, which we just got a couple weeks ago, will be getting a professional ceramic coating.  Everything else gets anything from LPS to HGG and various combinations in between.  

 

When it gets much above 90 and the humidity is hovering at 60 or so,  Ceramic Boost and HGG can both be challenging, at 90+ and humidity at 75 or more even Brilliant Glaze takes a bit to cure as does American, Patriots and Ceramic Paste Wax.   Just don’t try to do too many panels at once, even if the cure time time gets to be a bit long, all it takes is a sudden drop in Humidity and then you are trouble.  I have used the products enough in the heat and humidity that I can judge it pretty good now,  it I never do more than two panels at a time.

 

The humidity does not seem to affect Waterless Wash at all or the regular Spray Wax, so I tend to do vehicles that need a touch up on the rainy weekends.

Thanks Ray.  And thanks for the humidity tips!  Especially not having used any of the products referenced that gives me some food for thought.  Summer in GA is usually close to 100 mid day and humidity is almost always high.  I'll take it any day over freezin' though! 😁  I have thought of using HGG in place of the drying method I currently use and may still add that as an extra step.

 

25 minutes ago, falcaineer said:

 

They will, but I highly suggest you get and use the grey microfiber applicator pads instead, https://adamspolishes.com/adam-s-microfiber-applicator-pads-2-pack.html Spray the coating spray directly onto the pad, 4-5 sprays or so, and apply. It's a tip I learned from the guys at the Shine Stop at Adam's HQ and its a lifesaver! I also suggest you use the suede towels to remove the residue once it rainbows, https://adamspolishes.com/suede-microfiber-towel.html Using a single or double soft will work, but it removes more of the remaining coating than the suede and could therefore shorten its longevity.

 

Also, for any hard plastic trim, just wipe it on, or even spray directly on the trim, and it will self level. No need to wipe away that residue. Time saving tip.

Thanks Chris.  At 6 bucks those applicator pads are a no brainer to use something that actually works better!

 

12 minutes ago, Yo-Yo Ma's Cousin said:

I will do that. I’ll do that as soon as I get to my computer.

 

and I agree with Chris about the microfiber applicator. It’s just a bigger applicator, therefore shortening the time required to apply

Cool!  Thanks Juan!  I appreciate that very much. 👍

[RayS]

HGG as a drying aid works good regardless of the humidity, just remember that a little goes a long way.  Also, you don’t want to use it weekly as it will build up.  I suggest not more than every 4-6 weeks according to how often you wash it.

[Yo-Yo Ma's Cousin]

Sorry for the wait. Here I'll tell you my process. I'm sure some others on this discussion may have some different input or suggestions to better this process, so please be open to those suggestions too. So total time I spent working hands on was around 4 hours. I'll try to give you the products I used (with links) and reasons for each step I took. This can become repetitive and tedious at times, but I'm doing so because I believe that I'm reducing the chances of damaging my paint. I think I would follow this process even if I chose to use a different type of protection, but it's pretty important to take preparation steps for a ceramic coating as @falcaineer mentioned.

 

1. Cleaned tires, wheels, wheel wells, and exhaust tip - I always start with this step so as to not put water on paint. If I don't put water on the paint, then the water won't dry and it reduces the chances of water spots. I go one wheel at a time rinsing my tools in between. I make sure to have all my tools and chemicals prepared before putting water on the vehicle. What I mean by that is I have a bucket full of water and a little bit of CS, and I put all of my tools in the bucket. I start by spraying water all over the wheel, tire, and wheel well. Then spray some diluted APC into the wheel wells (I use APC because the majority of my wheel wells are carpet not rubber or plastic), then I take my Fender Brush (one of my favorites) and I brush the entirety of the wheel well. Then I rinse the wheel well. I follow that by spraying TRC onto the tire face and tread block, and use a Tire Brush to clean. In this step, the tires start to turn orange/brown which shows that the tires are dirty. I repeat this step until the chemical no longer turns brown but appears white. Then I spray WC into the wheel barrel, rotors, and wheel face. You'll see the spray starting to turn red/purple, this means the chemical is reacting with and breaking down the iron/metallic particles that contaminate the wheel from brake dust and other grime from the road. I use a wheel brush to agitate the chemical, I actually like to use the Lug Nut brush to agitate the rotors and get in the lug nuts, and I also think it's a good option to use for the face of the wheel. Then I would either use a wheel woolie or a barrel brush to get the wheel barrel and the back of the spokes. Then I would make sure to rinse the tire, wheel, and wheel wells thoroughly. and to avoid scratching the wheels, I try to rinse my tools after I use them before I put them back in the bucket. Then I repeat for each wheel. For the exhaust tips, I basically just spray APC into the exhaust and use the wheel woolie or barrel brush to agitate, then rinse it all out.

 

Chemicals used 

• Wheel Cleaner (WC)
• Tire and Rubber Cleaner (TRC)
• All Purpose Cleaner, Diluted 1:1 with water (APC)
• Car Shampoo (CS)

 

Tools used

• Tire Brush
• Fender Brush
• Wheel Woolie or Wheel Barrel Brush
• Lug Nut Brush

 

 Here's Adams Process:

 

2. Wash Car with Strip Wash - This step is to not only clean the vehicle exterior, the strip wash is also trying to break down any protection (wax, sealant, etc.) you have on your vehicle. This can sound like a bad thing, but just keep in mind, later in this process we will be adding protection back to the paint, and likely a much better protection. We want to remove any existing protection, because we want the paint to be "naked." This will allow the coating to properly bond with the paint/clear coat. Start by having everything prepared before putting any water on the paint, once again we want to reduce the chance of water spots especially on your beautiful black vehicles. Preferably you would use a two bucket wash method, in addition I love to use a pressure washer and foam cannon. If using a pressure washer and foam cannon, put about 4-5 oz of strip wash in the foam cannon bottle, and I like to use 2-3oz of APC as well, I have seen in the past how APC is such a good degreaser that it will break down sealants and waxes. The problem there is if it dries on the paint, it can cause damage. So I was very careful about using APC. I start by rinsing the vehicle first, with only water, them immediately (since I am prepared) I attach my foam cannon and cover the vehicle in the strip wash/APC solution. I let that dwell for maybe 2 minutes. If you're not using a foam cannon you can start here by having two buckets filled with water and grit guards. One has only clean water and a grit guard, the other has your soap solution of 3-4 oz of strip wash, and here I also like to add 2-3 oz of APC again. My wash mitt(s) go in the soap solution until after I have initially rinsed the vehicle. Once I have rinsed I grab my wash mitt and go from the top of the vehicle to the bottom. I am always aware of what's on my mitt, and if I picked up dirt or sticks or whatever, I make sure to get it off by either picking it out, using the pressure washer to clean it off, and putting my mitt in the bucket with only water and rubbing against the grit guard to clean the mitt before dunking back into the soap bucket. Try to keep the vehicle wet and lubricated by squeezing your mitt to release water/soap, until you finish cleaning the vehicle, and then immediately rinse thoroughly. If you need to take a break or if you aren't prepared for step 3, I would dry. (I wasn't prepared so I dried) if you have the option to dry with air, that's a good option, if not use a microfiber towel with no drying aid, meaning don't use Detail Spray or anything just use the towel. If you can go straight into step 3, do that you will dry the vehicle after that!

 

Chemicals used

• Strip Wash
• All Purpose Cleaner (APC)

 

Tools used

• 2 Buckets
• Grit Guards
• Wash Mitt or Sponge, etc
• Microfiber Drying Towel

 

3. Chemical and Clay Decontamination- Every vehicle has contamination on it, even new ones. In this step you will be removing contamination that has been stuck in the clear coat. This step can look very different depending on who you talk to. Some people like to do this step during the wash, I'm not sure if there's a "right way", but this is how I did it following the wash and dry: I start by spraying down the vehicle (depending on the weather and if you're doing this indoor or out door you may want to go panel by panel) with IR (or you can use a diluted WC), This acts just like WC in that it's reaction with iron and metallic contamination turns red/purple. It may be hard to see on black. I didn't see it on my dark grey paint, but I could see it dripping purple on the concrete when I was washing it off... Anyways I sprayed the whole vehicle, then let it sit for 1-2 minutes. The weather was cloudy and like 50ºF. Then I rinsed it all off. Then I used a clay lube and used a clay bar to remove other contaminants that are stuck in the clear coat. I normally use very careful, very light pressure (since clay is an abrasive) and never ever do it dry. Always make sure the surface is lubricated. Do this for all the wheels, paint, glass, chrome, or anything that shines, I don't use it for my trim peices. You will see and feel your clay bar start to pick up little specs of contamination. Periodically keep an eye on how much contamination is on the clay bar, and you may need to bend/reshape the clay in order to get a clean surface before continuing. Important note: you never want to drop this on the ground. It will pick up rocks and stuff that can drag some nice scratches in your paint. That goes for microfiber towels and wash mitts too. They love to grab stuff so be careful never to put them on the ground. I like to rinse and dry once I'm done with the clay, others don't think its a necessary step.

 

Chemicals used

• Iron Remover (IR) or Wheel Cleaner, diluted (WC)
• Clay Lube (Diluted Rinseless Wash, Diluted Car Shampoo, Detail Spray... for the Ceramic Coating prep any of these would work, but I would lean more towards the diluted car shampoo as you won't be leaving any polymers or anything on the paint)

 

Tools Used

• Clay Bar of Choice (I used and Liked Visco Elastic Clay, People with large vehicles love the Clay Mitt, I think the most mild clay that would do the least amount of damage would be the Fine Clay Bar)

 

4. Polishing- Get indoors if you can at this point. This step is important to get your paint as perfect as possible. This is highly recommended and I recommend it. Once you apply the coating any defects your paint may have will now be sealed under the coating. My vehicle was relatively new, and I didn't have many defects to my paint, so I skipped the polishing step. Looking back, I would have done a polish even if just a RHP. Polishing will make a difference. Although I didn't do it, I would recommend you at least do a polish with the finishing polish with the white pad at this step. RHP with a blue hex grip pad (or white pad if using a machine) would be the last thing I would do before moving on. The polishing step is pretty heavily subjective depending on your preferences and your specific paint, so please feel free to ask me any questions you have about this, and I can try to answer them or point you to some help. But since I don't know the specifics, it's hard for me to direct you on here. Looking back, I would have done a polish even if just a RHP. Polishing will make a difference. Although I didn't do it, I would recommend you at least do a polish with the finishing polish with the white pad at this step. Also, The OSP with the One Step Pads look awesome and I'm excited to try them out. RHP with a blue hex grip pad (or white pad if using a machine), and remove with a microfiber towel, would be the last thing I would do before moving on. Also Work in very small sections at a time... Like 2 x 2 small.

 

Chemicals mentioned

• Revive Hand Polish (RHP)
• One Step Polish (OSP)
• Finishing Polish

 

Tools mentioned

• Polisher (if you don't have one, it looks like Adams in the future may be introducing a rental program for polishers)
• One Step Pads
• White Pad
• Blue hex grip pad
• Single-soft Microfiber Towel, or Double-soft Microfiber Towel

 

5. Surface Prep- This is crucial to the process. To fully clean the surface and remove an polishing oils or leftover wax that may be lingering. Us Adam's SP or a solution of Isopropyl Alcohol to spray down the paint and wipe with a Single-soft Microfiber Towel, or if you prefer, spray on the towel and wipe the surface. Do this for the glass and all the paint and the lights, and chrome and wheels. On the rubber trim pieces, possibly on your truck bed liner, I would use TRC with a Microfiber Utility Towel to clean those peices. I am not sure for the bed liner, maybe somebody else has a better idea for that. but then once all of this is cleaned, you're ready to move onto the coating stage.

 

Chemicals used

• Surface Prep (SP) or IPA solution
• Tire and Rubber Cleaner (TRC)

 

Tools used

• Single-soft Microfiber Towel
• Microfiber Utility Towel

 

 

6. Protection- Do this in the garage. This is the step to apply your protection. Whether that be Wax, Sealant, or Ceramic Coating. For the CSC, you will want to have that prepared with a few clean towels for the "removal" or "leveling" of the coating. I only used a competitors towels that I had gotten for cheap because I love Adam's towels and I don't want to throw them away if I use them for a Ceramic Coating. But that was before Adam's came out with their new ceramics line and added the suede removal towels and before I had thought about using a Microfiber Applicator as the application media. So I had two towels one for applying and one for leveling. Next time, I will use the Microfiber Applicator and a Suede Removal towel. Wear gloves. Spray the CSC a few times directly into the Microfiber Applicator. Using a cross hatch pattern apply to a small section (2x2). The cross hatch pattern is just to ensure coverage. Then wait 30 - 90 seconds until you see the surface start to flash (it turns rainbow and looks like oil on water) - make sure you have good lighting. Then use the suede removal towel to lvel the product. Basically you just gently wipe until the surface is glossy. It's important that you go over the paint where you've applied the coating. If you don't or if you miss any spots you'll get something called "high spots" on the paint which can look like streaks or build up of product. Look up some pictures of high spots on the forums. Those are no fun, you'll likely have to polish out the coating and reapply. So just be aware and diligent. That's where working in small sections can really really help. So continue moving around the vehicle like this. Make sure you get your glass, chrome, lights, and trim. The CSC is pretty much safe on all exterior surfaces. @falcaineer mentioned that on trim, you don't need to go over the second time since it will self level there. When I did it, I did go over it a second time. Next time I will try doing it without. I did not use CSC on my wheels, but you may choose do and just follow the same procedure. Once you've finished coating the vehicle, it's time to wait and let it cure. CSC needs 4 hours minimum. I left mine over night. You'll notice a huge difference in gloss. It's really special to see the results of your hard work. 

 

Chemicals used

• Ceramic Spray Coating (CSC)

 

Tools used

• Microfiber Applicator
• Suede Removal Towels
• Gloves

 

Make sure you throw away any towel or applicator you used for the Coating. The SiO2 will dry in the medium and essentially become shards of glass that will scratch your paint if you ever put them back on the surface.

 

7. Boost- After you've let the coating fully cure, this is the time to add CB if you choose to. Use less product than you think. Go one panel at a time.You would just spray the CB onto the surface and wipe with a microfiber towel, double-soft works well. Then flip the towel over (or use a second clean and dry one) and wipe until it's shiny. CB (or anything with SiO2) can also be the culprit of High Spots, so just be aware of that. I always give a second wipe down to any SiO2 product I use. If at any point you see that it's getting streaky and your dry side of the towel is no longer leading to a shine, it's time to flip the towel to a new side or get a new clean and dry towel. A good way of using microfiber towels is to have them folded into quarters, and then you have 8 total sides of a towel to switch to if one gets dirty or saturated. This goes for pretty much any time you want to use one, not just for the CB. This is the point where I got my wheels. Make sure to get your wheels! This is also when I used my tire shine or tire armor.

 

Chemicals used

• Ceramic Boost (CB)

 

Tools used

• Double-soft Microfiber Towel

 

This is a great video I have found where Adam goes into pretty good detail for a lot of these steps. He does some things that I didn't do. For example he applies glass sealant and paint sealant. We don't want those because our CSC will act as the protection for both the glass and the paint. So his goal at the end of this video is different than the things we are trying to acheive, but he still takes the time to explain in detail the steps. SO it's a great video. Adam's has an awesome library of videos throughout their website and on youtube. Check those out!

 

And you're done! now to enjoy the benefits of the coating. Your gloss will be awesome! and future washes will be easier. Just use Car shampoo and dry and all the dirt will just come flying off. Also make sure to peek the window if you ever leave your vehicle in the rain. Water will just slide off. It's likely you will use your windshield wipers less, if you coat the windshield. I rarely use my windshield wipers, I love watching the water go up up and away. In future washes just follow a normal procedure, and you can use CB about once every month or so to boost the coating after you wash your car. About every or every other wash I love to use Ceramic Waterless Wash as a detail spray and drying aid. It's an amazing product. Also there are some other shampoos like the Wash+Coat and Wash and Wax which contain SiO2 and can also add a small boost to the coating. So just find a process that works for you.

 

There's a big initial investment of time and money especially if you're just starting off, but I found that really enjoy my time detailing my vehicle and others' vehicles. It's therapeutic and Adam's products really enhance the process for me. And once you get those tools and towels, those will last you a while with proper care, so the majority of things you'll need in the future are refills or the occasional new chemical you want to try.

 

Speaking of care... After I finish using a towel, I immediately throw it in a bucket full of water and I'll try to have some APC in the bucket or some detergent if handy. If not, car shampoo will do. But reason for that is to start breaking down whatever the towel may have picked up. If a towel is especially dirty like when I rinseless wash or waterless wash, my towels get real dirty. I put them in a bucket of water and once I'm ready (normally just later in the day, I don't like to leave towels for more than a day) I will spray the dirty towels down with APC and Rinse them with High pressure, whether I have my pressure washer out or I can just use my outdoor spigot, which has a good bit of pressure out of the wall. I let that loosen the dirt, then I take them to the Washing Machine. Also, if I use any SiO2 product, I immediately put those in a bucket of water because even if a product has a low level of SiO2 like the Wash+Coat, Wash and Wax, Ceramic Waterless Wash, and Ceramic Boost, that SiO2 can dry if you give it enough time. So I put those in water and wash those towels as soon as I possibly can. I wash them in Cold Cold water, Adam's has their own detergent which is GREAT. Microfiber Revitalizer. And I add an extra rinse cycle. I dry like in the dryer using Low Heat or No Heat. 

I never ever mix my microfibers with cotton or really anything else, I normally have enough to wash a small load after a wash.

 

Here's a thread for Microfiber Care:

 

Below is an image of my paint after my maintenance wash yesterday. I just used CS to clean the wheels and the paint. I used TRC for the tires, and used Ceramic Waterless Wash as my drying aid with my Jumbo Plush Drying Towel (and went back over the whole car lightly with a double soft until it was shiny).

Here you can see the gloss from the coating is still there, even months after I coated, and I haven't used Ceramic Boost in like 6 weeks or so:

Then it obviously rained after I washed my vehicle because you know how this works, but I woke up to these nice beads:

I will update this later today with some links and pictures and stuff. I hope this helps.

 

Updated:

I included links, pictures and videos. That's alot... Sorry.

 

 

Edited July 8, 2019 by Yo-Yo Ma's Cousin

[GXPaycheck]

I recommend doing the wheels/tires the day before doing the rest of the car. Spreading it out makes it easier. 

[tlbullet]

Wow...cant imagine all  the time yo-yo ma took  to write this detailed post! Its gonna be very helpful for new members!  (And myself!) 

👍🏻👍🏻

[stalebreadjr]

Wow Juan!  I can't thank you enough for taking time out of the day to give me a write up like that.  That is well over and above what I was expecting and fantastic info!  I hope Adams Admin is watching!  

 

I think I am 100% with you and understand each point that went over.  The only part that I as a novice am nervous about is the polishing.  That is something I have zero experience with and from some of the instructional videos I've seen can be overdone easily.  Both of my vehicles are fairly new and garage kept with very little to no blemishes.  Having said that you make me want to try at least to polish while taking the time to do this.  In your opinion, what is the safest option here?  I have never attempted to power polish nor do I have a polisher.  Is it risky for me at this stage or am I just being skiddish?     

 

Again, I can't thank you enough for this as you have more than answered my questions and have even given me some additional products that I am adding to my cart that I was not thinking about.

[tlbullet]

37 minutes ago, stalebreadjr said:

Wow Juan!  I can't thank you enough for taking time out of the day to give me a write up like that.  That is well over and above what I was expecting and fantastic info!  I hope Adams Admin is watching!  

 

I think I am 100% with you and understand each point that went over.  The only part that I as a novice am nervous about is the polishing.  That is something I have zero experience with and from some of the instructional videos I've seen can be overdone easily.  Both of my vehicles are fairly new and garage kept with very little to no blemishes.  Having said that you make me want to try at least to polish while taking the time to do this.  In your opinion, what is the safest option here?  I have never attempted to power polish nor do I have a polisher.  Is it risky for me at this stage or am I just being skiddish?     

 

Again, I can't thank you enough for this as you have more than answered my questions and have even given me some additional products that I am adding to my cart that I was not thinking about.

Ive written this many times b4 ..i was in same place as u not too long ago..terrified to polish.  I watched some Adams

videos and bought a SK 15mm.   I would say nearly idiot proof...go for it.  Just start with least aggressive method first.....and take your time!

[Yo-Yo Ma's Cousin]

1 hour ago, stalebreadjr said:

Wow Juan!  I can't thank you enough for taking time out of the day to give me a write up like that.  That is well over and above what I was expecting and fantastic info!  I hope Adams Admin is watching!  

 

I think I am 100% with you and understand each point that went over.  The only part that I as a novice am nervous about is the polishing.  That is something I have zero experience with and from some of the instructional videos I've seen can be overdone easily.  Both of my vehicles are fairly new and garage kept with very little to no blemishes.  Having said that you make me want to try at least to polish while taking the time to do this.  In your opinion, what is the safest option here?  I have never attempted to power polish nor do I have a polisher.  Is it risky for me at this stage or am I just being skiddish?     

 

Again, I can't thank you enough for this as you have more than answered my questions and have even given me some additional products that I am adding to my cart that I was not thinking about.

 

You're welcome. I enjoyed it!

 

If you have the time and money, I say you should go for it. I don't think you'll be disappointed with your results. Adams has many detailed videos about polishing, so take a look at some of those like @tlbullet mentioned. and get to know the purpose of each of the pads and polishes. From there you can probably decide if you're ready for polishing.

 

If you don't have many defects in your paint, It's likely that you could stick to the Orange Correcting Polish with an Orange Pad and/or the White Finishing Polish with a white pad.

 

 

[RayS]

1 hour ago, stalebreadjr said:

Wow Juan!  I can't thank you enough for taking time out of the day to give me a write up like that.  That is well over and above what I was expecting and fantastic info!  I hope Adams Admin is watching!  

 

I think I am 100% with you and understand each point that went over.  The only part that I as a novice am nervous about is the polishing.  That is something I have zero experience with and from some of the instructional videos I've seen can be overdone easily.  Both of my vehicles are fairly new and garage kept with very little to no blemishes.  Having said that you make me want to try at least to polish while taking the time to do this.  In your opinion, what is the safest option here?  I have never attempted to power polish nor do I have a polisher.  Is it risky for me at this stage or am I just being skiddish?     

 

Again, I can't thank you enough for this as you have more than answered my questions and have even given me some additional products that I am adding to my cart that I was not thinking about.

Here is a recommendation and how I did my first, second and third run with a polisher.  I went by my local Pick-A-Part, pulled a couple trunk lids and brought them home.   I think I paid $5 each for them if I remember correctly - it was a long time ago.  I started by washing them to get the grime off and then taped off sections and started experimenting.  I learned how to use the equipment, pads and chemicals with a "can't hurt it attitude".   

 

Once you have them polished, you have a perfect platform for testing difference sealants and product combinations.  Most trunk lids are easy to transport, light weight and sit on a couple of sawhorses that can be clamped underneath so they don't move.  If possible, I suggest getting them in the same color as your vehicle.    

 

If you have a fiberglass vehicle, try to find a snowmobile hood for your experimentation.  Again, they are light, easy to move around and pretty much react the same way as fiberglass vehicle.  When I lived near Buffalo, they were easy to get since so many ended up getting broke during the winter or maybe they were just off my snowmobiles  😉