Giving zaino a chance...

sportgemmo · 11-18-08, 10:58

I've been using Zymol for quite a long time and im quite pleased with the results. However, after reading some posts and looking at the pics i want to try some zaino stuff on my cars. One of them ( MB E320 metallic black) has some swirls (not that bad) but it does need some polishing. What would you say about trying Z-PC, Z5 PRO and Z-CS?

Would the finish be better if i top it with a layer of Zymol Concours, or it makes no difference at all?

Any tips?

beau · 11-18-08, 01:06

Zymol and Zaino = alot of hype. And expensive to boot, especially when Zaino doesn't offer larger sizes. Einmann Fabrik, Chemical Guys, Poorboys World, Menzerna, Optimum, Detailers Pride, Hi-Temp... better value.

Sorry, didn't answer your question. Always nice to see new members, but the two brands you mentioned are very popular an auto forums, but aren't as popular here as some of the brands I mentioned above (not suggesting they're not used here by many proficient detailers, of course). I've used Zymol and thought it was very difficult to work with. Haven't tried Zaino, as I like to buy in volume to save money. Neither brands, in my opinion, offer anything that the others can't accomplish, and often at a fraction of the price.

MikeEast · 11-18-08, 01:16

I've used Zaino since I bought my Magnum and while I agree that there are equal/better products out there that I haven't used, I have to say that Zaino stuff really is pretty decent stuff.

It is expensive and in little containers, but a little goes a long way indeed.

I started using Meguires products on a few neighbor's cars and I'm very impressed with the results so far.

I'm learning more and more reading this site - y'all are some seriously talented folks with some serious experience.. I expect my car will be getting better and better because of you.

Mike

stiffdogg06 · 11-18-08, 01:24

I highly suggest getting Z16. It's zainos tire dresing. I used probably 1/4 oz to cover full size Aurora tires two times!

I like Zaino plus I get it locally.

pwaug · 11-18-08, 01:31

Zaino makes great products. One coat each of ZAIO, Z2 (or Z5) and ZCS will easily last me 6-9 months through New Hampshire winters (with ONR washes). That being said it is expensive, but a little goes a long, long way. There are other alternatives that can be just as durable like DG and Optimum products which are less expensive and are available in larger sizes. Do some searching on this website for more information than you will want. Everyone has there own opinion, but you can start to see some clear indication of which products are used and the merits of each.

As far as the swirls--removing them by hand will be difficult, but I've had good results by hand using Megs M105 (also the new ULTIMATE COMPOUND available in January is the consumer version of M105) with a MF applicator. It's allot of work and you'd best do a panel a day rather than trying to do the entire car at once.

Inzane · 11-18-08, 01:35

Hehe... just wait, the Zaino Zealots will flock this post, just give 'em time.

I've bought a few Zaino products: Z16 tire dressing, Z9 & Z10 Leather Cleaner & Conditioner, and the Z18 clay bar.

The Z16 and Z10 are awesome products.

I haven't tried any of their 'paint' products, and don't really plan to. Why..? I don't need to. Too many wonderful alternatives out there.

Scottwax · 11-18-08, 01:44

If you want the Zaino look at about half the price, I'd give the Duragloss line a try. I honestly can't tell a difference between the two, other than the price. However, I am not aware of a Duragloss product that matches up with Z-PC, which is a very good medium grade polish for use with DA buffers. Z-10 is a decent leather conditioner that smells great.

WhiteStripes · 11-18-08, 01:46

I got the show kit plus their ZPC. It's good stuff from what I can tell, but it's the only stuff I've used so far, I also got some P21S Carnauba and put a layer or that on top. I did a 50/50 with tape, and literally couldn't see a difference with the Z5 only side and the Z5 plus P21s side. I dunno though, that could be my noob detailer's eyes.

The ZPC really needs at least an orange pad. It didn't do anything on a white pad. The stuff was really really dusty too, but I think I was using too much. Also I've heard it doesn't work too well on German paint. Or any of the ceramic based clearcoats since it's water based.

Another thing is that it really brings out the defects in the paint if there are any, so some good paint correction is really recommended before putting it on.

I hope that helps, but I'm definitely going to be trying other products as well. Can't wait to get my hands on some Menzerna.

wannafbody · 11-18-08, 03:08

If you want to try Zaino try ZAIO at the very least. ZAIO is pretty durable for an AIO type product.

sportgemmo · 11-18-08, 03:09

Guys, first of all thanks for all the input. I'm newbie here, but i've just learned a lot from you. I've been reading the forum for a long time but i just got registered...

Scottwax: i saw some pics of cars you have worked and i must say its incredible what you can do with Vanilla Moose! But i just have a rotary buffer... do you think i can get similar results? What about trying by hand??

Thanks again for all your answers

Greetings from Germany!

Slickery · 11-18-08, 04:14

Start with ZAIO and then build you zaino kit off that. If you want to wax, you can wax on top of that. I would bet good money if you use ZAIO with CS, that you would forget about waxing.

Does duragloss have a clear seal product or an AIO like ZAIO, if not I think there is a pretty large difference between the two as these are my personal favorite Zaino products?

z06meister · 11-18-08, 04:37

The ZPC, Z5p and CS is an excellent routine. I WOULD NOT top it with the Concourse but would instead finish off with Z8, especially if using the CS. I find that when you follow the CS with Z8 it really brings out the depth. I also think that CS should always be followed with Z8.

Don't forget to clay first if it needs it.

Then
ZPC
Z5p
CS
Z8.

AWESOME routine that will blow away you old nuba regiment IMHO.

I have even compared it to Vintage and could not really see any difference other than durability and with Zaino you don't get the oily hologram on the side when the sun hits it. You also do not get any sweating. My two biggest complaints with nuba's.

As far as tips go apply your Zaino thin.

Mist your applicator with Z6 or water before applying your Zaino, it will help you apply it thin.