AIO Alternatives- Best Cleaning Ability?

A

Accumulator

Well-known member
Although I plan to keep using AIO under SG, I'd like to find a less-expensive alternative for other applications. Something that will provide cleaning abilities at least equal to AIO's. I've tried Autoglym's SRP, TOL's Snap Seal, 1Z's various polishes, and VM- none of them match AIO's cleaning ability. Seems like everybody offers an all-in-one product, but I don't want to mess around experimenting, I'd rather see what people have already experienced.



Any suggestions? If nothing sounds promising I'll just order a big jug of AIO...
 
Have you tried Flitz in the liquid form?





Its certainly stronger than AIO and has the same qualities (chemical polish with a protective quality).
 
FK1 #215 or #216. I don't recommend the new CL68, aka Prime, because I feel that because of the smaller abrasives the raw cleaning power is less than the original AIO's.
 
There's a reason I have 68 ounces of AIO in my supply. :)



AIO works so well, I've been reluctant to even bother trying to find an equal product.
 
I have recently used a product from Detailers Paradise called Prima Swirl. The first time that I used it I was shocked at what appeared to be a swirl free surface. I have used it since and have not been able to repeat the swirl removal results from my first application. I used a PC and LC polishing pad. Never the less it is a very good cleaner of paint. The surface is smooth after application and removal. It was rather grabby when buffing it off. I was advised by the manufacturer that with an application of a QD the removal would be easier. This proved correct.



Have used this three times on my truck so far. Just doing a panel at a time to see how it works. I did the truck box panel and a door. Then a front door and front fender. The last application was on the roof. It is an up and comer in my book. It would be nice to have a sealant to put on top of this product. Was advised by the manufacturer that they were still in the design stage but would eventually produce a companion product.
 
Addendum: The new CL68 is still an excellent chemical surface cleaner but the original AIO was stronger, its 'mechanics' were more abrasive.
 
Forgot too..





Poorboy's Pro Polish is a much stronger chemical cleaner than AIO...bit harder to work with though.
 
Accumulator, have you tried the Long Haul polish/wax. That's a very decent cleaner/wax product and it has some staying power. You get a qt. for $15 or so.
 
Wow, that's a lot of responses in a short period of time! Some of the products mentioned aren't what I'm after for one reason or another and others sound intriquing. Thanks for sharing your opinions and further suggestions are certainly welcome.



FWIW, some critical criteria include: available in quantity (quarts minimum), extreme ease-of-use (no harder than AIO), abrasiveness not more than AIO (older version), suitable for the same household uses as AIO (in addition to detailing applications), must not leave white/etc. residue on trim, must be suitable for use on most all surfaces like AIO (which I've even used on rubber). Marring correction and filliing are of no importance. Protection/durability need not be any better than untopped AIO.



Gee...my criteria basically say "it should be just like AIO", which sorta makes me wonder about trying something new :o 3 litres for ~$70 doesn't sound all that bad..
 
Bence said:
Addendum: The new CL68 is still an excellent chemical surface cleaner but the original AIO was stronger, its 'mechanics' were more abrasive.
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On well prepped paint, I'd say they are pretty equal and Prime has a wetter look.
 
Accumulator said:
FWIW, some critical criteria include: available in quantity (quarts minimum), extreme ease-of-use (no harder than AIO), abrasiveness not more than AIO (older version), suitable for the same household uses as AIO (in addition to detailing applications), must not leave white/etc. residue on trim, must be suitable for use on most all surfaces like AIO (which I've even used on rubber). Marring correction and filliing are of no importance. Protection/durability need not be any better than untopped AIO.



Gee...my criteria basically say "it should be just like AIO", which sorta makes me wonder about trying something new :o 3 litres for ~$70 doesn't sound all that bad..
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:har:



Basically, you are looking for <drumroll please> ..... AIO!!!!



I got a kick out of your response. You are your own therapist :rofl



That cracked me up, sorry. That last line was vintage Accumulator. :laugh:
 
Accumulator: You might not believe this.... but try FK #218.



Yes, it's a sealer by 'tag', but it does many (not all) of the same things that AIO does. I can send you a sample if you'd like to give it a shot.



I find myself using it, just like AIO, often.



That said.... AIO is comfort food on my shelf. I'm not sure if I'd ever completely replace it, because it's such a great all around product. AIO might be the one and only product that doesn't get a ton of debate. It's a great product, period.
 
tom p. said:
Accumulator, have you tried the Long Haul polish/wax. That's a very decent cleaner/wax product and it has some staying power. You get a qt. for $15 or so.
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I buy it for 9.00 at Pep Boys.
 
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