I seem to remember either reading this here or that someone here posted a link to a site that mentioned this. I have been a lurker here for some time, trying to accumulate as much knowledge as I can before asking questions or jumping into my first serious detail. I have used the search button..alot!!, but am seriously confused about which products in which sequence. I realize each person has their own preference, but what do you guys think about the DACP, #9, #7, wax order? I have just purchased the PC and need to make my first big order. I have a couple of containers of IHG, so if that can be substituted for any of the above please tell me. I do seem th remember reading that anything one uses with the PC should say "for machine use", which the IHG does not. I plan on detailing a 1997 altima, 1986 guards red 911 turbo, and a 2003 E500- in that order. I was planning on skipping at least the DACP on the E500. Any and all comments/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.:nixweiss
DACP, #9, #7, wax. Is this the "proper" sequence?
- Thread starter pcar 930
- Start date
ntwrkguy1
New member
Mike,
I've used that sequence (DACP, #9, #7, Meguiar's Gold Class wax) before on some clients cars. You'll get great results, though the #9 step might be redundant if you work the DACP correctly. On the E500, depending on the color, I might go for GEPC and P21S wax. Don't forget to clay them all, and good luckwith the detailing!
-DavidM
I've used that sequence (DACP, #9, #7, Meguiar's Gold Class wax) before on some clients cars. You'll get great results, though the #9 step might be redundant if you work the DACP correctly. On the E500, depending on the color, I might go for GEPC and P21S wax. Don't forget to clay them all, and good luckwith the detailing!
-DavidM
imported_BretFraz
New member
Welcome, and I speak for all veteran Autopians in saying "thanks" for using the Search function. We appreciate your efforts.
DACP is a polish that starts like a fine cut but buffers to a SMR. So my suggestion would be to start with DACP then evaluate the finish before going to the #9. My guess is that you won't need the #9 but that's a judgement call on your part. After having used DACP over the past year I no longer use an SMR after it. There's just no need, IMO.
IHG can be subbed for #7. There's no rule stating you have to stick with Meguiar's polishes. I've used IHG with a PC and got great results. Its a lot easier to use a machine with a glaze than it is glazing by hand.
You're probably right about the E500. Try the #9 on a small area to gauge performance and go from there. Use the DACP only on spots you feel it would be needed.
What wax are you using? And I assume you are using clay after the wash and before the polishing?
DACP is a polish that starts like a fine cut but buffers to a SMR. So my suggestion would be to start with DACP then evaluate the finish before going to the #9. My guess is that you won't need the #9 but that's a judgement call on your part. After having used DACP over the past year I no longer use an SMR after it. There's just no need, IMO.
IHG can be subbed for #7. There's no rule stating you have to stick with Meguiar's polishes. I've used IHG with a PC and got great results. Its a lot easier to use a machine with a glaze than it is glazing by hand.
You're probably right about the E500. Try the #9 on a small area to gauge performance and go from there. Use the DACP only on spots you feel it would be needed.
What wax are you using? And I assume you are using clay after the wash and before the polishing?
Jngrbrdman
New member
That is a good sequence. DACP may leave some finer marks that #9 will remove. #7 is an excellent glaze that may fill whatever swirls that are left and then if you still want to wax then that will give it an even nicer appearance. I think that sounds like a good combination of products to use. I'm not a huge fan of glazes so I would probably replace the #7 with a sealant and then wax it a day later.
Yes, I do plan on claying after the initial dawn wash. About the wax- I have Blitz for the Altima(official color beige pearl), and the Porsche. I was planning on Souveran for the Mercedes. I recently went to a Porsche concours event and saw some black 911's that looked outstanding after souveran. Very deep shine and wet in appearance. The porsche hasn't been detailed properly since the dealer did it 2 years ago when I bought it. Actually, thinking back, I could honestly say that they didn't do a respectable job either so who knows when it was really-if ever-done. I am a bit concerned about the bumbers and edges when using the PC. I plan on taping all the trim and was considering doing some by hand, but I wonder about the differences in appearance I would get mixing hand and machine. Am I correct to use the DACP with the yellow pad and the #9 or #7 with the white pad? Even thoghh some of the folks here say that with the PC a lambswool pad is okay, I am too afraid to try it at this point. Maybe after a bit of experience and on a doorskin from a junkyard or something to practice on. Anyway, even though I picked up the PC today, it is really a father's day gift, so I won't be getting started until after then. I am really looking forward to it. You guys have been a big help and I must say, a real confidence builder. Thanks.
Personally, I wouldn't bother with a Dawn wash. Highly overrated, IMO. Just use a good car wash soap. The polishes will remove any old wax that is left on the cars.
You have the order right. I'd use S100 as the wax of choice, but #26 is a fine product and lasts longer than Gold Class in my experience.
You have the order right. I'd use S100 as the wax of choice, but #26 is a fine product and lasts longer than Gold Class in my experience.
imported_BretFraz
New member
And you're right on with the pad use - DACP & yellow, #9 & white.
Good luck. Post some pics when you're done.
Good luck. Post some pics when you're done.