Just wanted to share the new FAQ from Optimum on application directions and post-application care:
Quote:
What do I have to prep/clean the surface with after polishing?
If you use Optimum polishes, you simply dry wipe to remove polishing residue and you can go straight to Opti Coat without the need for a chemical wipe down. This is the preferred method for all pros and the official recommendation of OPT. Opti-Coat Pro even comes with a modified polish that not only preps like the other polishes, but also promotes bonding.
If you choose to use another brand of polish, you're operating outside of the recommended guidelines and results may vary. Your goal is to make sure the paint is void of any surface contamination that could inhibit the bond. This includes oils, silicones, waxes, overspray, or anything that is not bare paint. IPA wipedowns are common and do a decent job of cleaning, but it can take more than one wipedown and IPA is not very slick...so, it can allow your towel to marr on soft paint finishes. Do yourself a favor and do it right the first time without seeing what you can get by with.
How is the surface prep/clean different for Optimum polishes?
Optimum Polishes do not contain excessive oils, fillers, nor any remnants that would inhibit bonding. There may be some other polishes that would perform this way...but OPT (nor any other manufacturer that I know of) can dedicate time to extensive testing of competing products. OPT polishes wipe away clean and even if you overwork the product to the point it's hard to remove, you can simply remove the residue with a water dampened microfiber or even wash dilution ONR without the need for a chemical wipedown.
Can I prep/clean with ONR?
ONR alone is not good enough. You can do a pre coating wipedown with ONR if you need to remove Optimum polish residue or dust accumulation pre coating, but best practices will always include a paint decontamination step and a polishing step. Decon with remove the bulk of accumulated grime and polishing will remove the rest unless the finish is severely neglected.
What is my window for recoating/second coat?
There are too many variables to state a definitive amount of time...but, it's easy to determine with a test spot. Simply wipe Opti Coat on and wait a couple of minutes. You will be able to see if it flashes to clear or is rejected. I've successfully added a second coat at 1 hour, 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month and 2.5 months. Also, if yup need to recoat but your test spot rejected the coat, yup only need a quick pass with Optimum Finish or Hyper Polish to micro abrade the surface enough to accept the next coat. I've also used compressed air and/or heat to force flash the first coat so the second coat could be applied faster.
How long before it can get wet/be washed/be exposed to chemicals?
Opti Coat can get wet after an hour, but this means ensure...not handling.
Opti Coat can be washed with ONR or a dedicated wash shampoo (nothing strong and no APC) after 3-7 days.
Opti Coat can be exposed to heavier solvents and degreasers after 7-10 days.
These are answers based on my experience with the products over the last 5 years as a Detailer, a beta tester for Optimum, conversations with Dr. G, and my 3 years offering online product support for OPT.
http://optimumforums.org/index.php?showtopic=4949&p=19322
