Hey guys, is this process right?

[AcuraTL]

I will be claying for the first time this Friday and I just want to make sure that my process is correct.

1. Wash with z-7
2. clay
3. wash again with z-7
4. zfx + z2 or z5

Is this okay?

[Guess My Name]

Looks good.

inspect for swirls after your second wash and if you have some I say remove them with some abrasives like SMR first.

[NSXNEXT]

I would think you'd want to wash with Dawn to get any oils or crap off the car prior to claying. Since Dawn doesn't remove Zaino, you should be fine. Anything to lessen the scratching caused by the clay.

[Brad B.]

Really no need to be wary of oils when you clay. They have no adverse effect at that point. Z7, by the way, is an excellent lube for clay. You may use any combination of Z2 and Z5 but typically you want to start with Z5 since the fillers will hide any scratches when you start.

[AcuraTL]

Yawl are the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Intermezzo]

Not to cause any confusion on a question that seems to be settled, but what about applying a coat of PPCL prior to your first application of Z-2/ZFX instead of doing another wash. This would allow you to 'deep clean' your paint, remove any clay residue and leave a very nice surface to apply Zaino. I've done it this way a few times now with excellent results.

[Brad B.]

That would work fine.