What do you guys use for applicators/rags?

[mstrjon32]

So I'm planning on putting two coats of NuFinish on my car tomorrow. I think I'm going to pick up a can of the paste, I've always prefered the paste to liquid waxes.

My questions are this: Should I use a traditional wax applicator, or should I use some kind of a rag to apply the paste? My first instinct was to use the good 'ol circular applicator, but I was looking at the NuFinish website and it seems to imply that it should be applied with a rag.

Second, what kind of rags do you use to take the polish off? In the past I've always just used old t-shirts and the like and haven't had a problem, but maybe there is some kind of better cloth I can be using. Any recommendations here appreciated.

Finally, what kind of prep do you guys do before applying a coat of polish/wax? I usually wash the car with Dawn, then hit any really tough spots with the bug and tar remover, and then another wash with Dawn, then towel dry. I've always found this to be adequate, but wondering if there is something better I could be doing.

I'm hoping that they're not full of it when they say the once-a-year car polish!

 

[chewbacca]

I just put on some Nufinish (liquid) on my Nissan Frontier. Came out pretty good. I used a foam applicator then buffed with a microfiber cloth. No problem at all. When you wash your vehicle, Dawn or any other dish soap will take the wax/polish off your vehicle. When you wash your vehicle, use a car wash soap, any brand should do.

 

[bretfraz]

Only thing I'd use a "rag" for is wiping up oil spills and grease spots. For applying wax use a new, soft applicator. Foam, cotton terry or microfiber are all fine. For a cleaner wax like NuFinish a cotton terry covered app will add a little more polishing power which prolly would be beneficial. I'd pickup a couple in case one get dropped or something.

For removal of said wax, nothing comes close to microfiber. Far softer than any cotton type product and more absorbent; holds the wax residue better. Most big stores carry them and for $10-15 they'll last a long time if cared for properly. Leave the old tshirts for dog washing or mopping up coolant spills.

Target's "Vroom" brand is decent for the price and widely available. A couple applicators and 2-3 towels will get you started.

As for prep, you've got the right idea. Don't know if you want to get involved with paint detailing clay but it sure smooths out the paint and makes waxing easier. Here's a link to a discussion we had awhile back: http://theoildrop.server101.com/forums/s...true#Post787007

Good luck and have fun. Remember, shiny cars make the world a better place.

 

[Shelby]

What he said, Micro Fiber for everything except applicator. Get a cotton apl, even those cheap round ones are good. Go to Waynes Towels online, best towels anywhere. Second choice would be pakshak or Viking plush. Do not use Fabric softener with Micro Fiber.

 

[mstrjon32]

Hello all,

Thanks for the replies.

I just returned from the auto parts store, ended up with some NuFinish liquid, they didn't have the paste unfortunately, but I'm pretty set on giving the NuFinish a try. Last time I used liquid wax/polish I remember it being pretty annoying, but I guess it's worth another shot.

I also picked up a pack of 12 microfiber towels for $9 (they wanted $6 for 3, or $9 for 12...go figure) and a neat little applicator with some refills for another $3. Not bad, I think.

Tomorrow I'll get to it; I'm looking forward to having a nice clean, protected, shiny car!

 

[mstrjon32]

Another quick question -- the instructions for NuFinish indicate to apply it with a damp rag. Should I wet the applicator (slightly, obviously) before attempting to apply the polish?

 

[bretfraz]

Yeah, a slightly damp applicator will make it easier to apply thin coats which is key. This is true with many products. Slop it on and it will be a nightmare to remove. Careful around plastic trim, body seams, lights, etc.

 

[daemonite]

microfiber towels from costco are awesome.

36 of them for $14.

liquid nufinish is easier to apply then the paste, or so it seems to me

 

[Chris B.]

NuFininsh is good stuff:

 

[chewbacca]

Proof is what you see above, yes? ChrisB, nice ride!

 

[mstrjon32]

What prep work did you do before you applied NuFinish, ChrisB?