I have a couple questions about Zaino.

[OverExposed]

I have been using Optimum as several highly respected detailers on this board do, but I have been interested in trying Zaino for some time.



I realize that looks or appearance is subjective because I didn't find Optimum to be any better than my previous product: Macguiars 26. I have read this board for a while and understand that many people on here have different eyes.



Here are my questions, if anybody with experience with the Pros or Cons could help me out I would really appreciate it. Thanks in advance.



Does Zaino layer? Over on the Macguiars forum, they state that nothing can layer past two coats, yet many Zaino members seem to believe that it does get better with each coat.



Is Zaino the longest lasting polish on the market? I would like something that can last four to five months on its own, which Zaino seems capable of doing. The Macguiars seemed to loose its luster on my old Corvette after several weeks.



Which products should I use on my black Corvette? I have read the website and have started to familiarize myself with the process, but am interested in which products would look best per experience?



I use Optimum Polish with my UDM, do I need to worry about bonding issues with Zaino after polishing?



I have been reading autopia for a little while, and it seems the more I learn the less I know.



Butch

 

[Setec Astronomy]

...and it seems the more I learn the less I know.

An important life lesson! And one that will keep you in good stead if you always remember it.



As to your questions, you're going to get a lot of arguments/opinions on those. Layerable? Well, every product is going to have some diminishing returns on subsequent application, as no one has ever been able to prove any build-up of product (although Ultima claims to gradually fill in small imperfections). Also, any product is going to benefit from frequent applications.



Is Zaino the longest lasting? Again, a lot of opinion/argument on that one...it can certainly be said it lasts a long time, and I would be comfortable saying it is one of the longest lasting. As far as prep after Optimum polish, a Z-6 wipedown may be enough, or an IPA wipe, or you can do an application of Z-AIO. The Z-2 will probably be closest to the look of #26 (out of the Zaino products), but the look will likely be different.

 

[imported_weekendwarrior]

It is tough to say one product way out performs another in terms of durability. There are just too many variables. Do you drive or park your car near industrial areas? What kind of climate do you live in? Is you car garaged, or parked outside? Do you apply a booster wax or something like Ultimate Quick Detailer after each wash? What kind of soap do you use? All of these things effect durability.



One thing they say over on the Meguiar's board is to find something you like, and stick with it. That is pretty good advice, regardless of which product line you choose.

 

[cwcad]

Zaino products are amoung the best for durability.



Zaino products can be layered. How many layers.....? It is subject to the eye of the beholder. The Zaino website says no more than three layers in one day.



I would get ZAIO, Z2Pro(just to see if you like the products). ZFX, ZPC, Z5Pro, Z6, Z8, CS, plus the other two mentioned, if you want to become addicted.



One can do a IPA wipedown(for bonding issues) and apply ZFX'd Z2Pro or Z5Pro. If you use the ZAIO, the IPA wipedown would not be needed, nor is the ZFX, if one layer of the poilish/sealant is applied in one day.



Do not feel bad about what you know or learn. There is a lot of information to be gleaned from this forum. Just keep reading and trying products and you will begin to understand.

 

[JeffM]

The only thing i dont like about z2p is that it is subject to waterspotting. Even after a wash, i can see where the water spots were.



I dont notice much difference between 2 and 6 coats, and really there isnt much need for me anyways.

 

[wannafbody]

The only way to determine how durable Zaino is is to try it yourself in your environment and form your own opinion. I believe that it indeed does layer.

 

[gmblack3]

On a black vette if already defect free...



Wash



Either ZAIO, IPA/water 50/50 wipedown or Z6 wipedown.



2-3x of Z5pro with ZFX.



Z8



Then wash with Z7 and use Z8 once to twice a month.



Depending on your use of the car (daily or w/e) and if its garage stored, my est would be 5-7 months before it needs more Z5pro.

 

[Cleaning Fool]

My favorite combo on black is 1 coat of Z5 followed by 1 coat of Z2. Mirror finish. If you already have polish, I really don't think you need ZPC or ZAIO. And I would skip Clear Seal, but get Z8.

 

[Scottwax]

I have yet to see any real proof that any product layers but I think that two applications ensures complete coverage.



Follow Optimum Polish with either ZAIO or Z6, then a layer of Z5. The faithful will tell you need to get ZFX so you can apply 3 layers at one time but personally, I'd save the money that ZFX costs and the extra time the first time you use Zaino by just applying a single layer instead of three. Add another layer of Z5 next time you wash and then maintain with Z8. Keep it simple and Zaino is pretty easy to use.

 

[Rob Tomlin]

Keep it simple and Zaino is pretty easy to use.

Advice worthy of being quoted!

 

[imported_never gone]

The only thing i dont like about z2p is that it is subject to waterspotting. Even after a wash, i can see where the water spots were.



I dont notice much difference between 2 and 6 coats, and really there isnt much need for me anyways.

In all reality, ANY product can be prone to water spotting. If a droplet of wanted gets on your car and it's not big or heavy enough to just roll off it's going to sit. As it sits and dries all the minerals and contaminants are left and there is no product that can stop that from happening. There isn't a product that will magically make the mineral deposits vanish while sitting there untouched. What a good product WILL do is make that spot easier to get off and not allow it to penetrate into the paints surface. I've personally had no more of an issue with Zaino water spotting than I have with Megs, Menz or whatever. Just sayin. :woot2: