Need product advice

04LemansZ

New member
I have never used anything other than OTC products and Zaino. After browsing around the site, there are obviously much better alternatives to OTC products. But, I'm not sure what I need.



I've tried researching, but came across so much info I don't know where to start. I plan on ordering a PC this week, probably the 7336?



As far as products, I'd kind of like to get everything in a bundle to cut down on the different orders I need to place. Doing some research, I came across this thread:Thread I know people have different opinion's about products, so I'm open to suggestions.



Do I need all of those products? I drive an '04 Lemans Sunset 350Z. It's only got 14,000 miles on it so the exterior of the car is in pretty good shape IMO, but there's definitely room for improvement. I tried getting some pics but they didn't turn out to well so I'll try and get more.



Any advice would be greatly appreciated, or if someone can get me started in the right direction I'd appreciate it. I'm sure I'll have more questions...but I'll search some more and wait until I get my products before I ask them. Thanks!



paint.jpg




paint2.jpg
 
That's a very cool color car!



The paint, as you see, has some swirling but isn't terrible. The package in the thread you mentioned has a few very nice Menzerna polishes, but a lot of it is more expensive than it coule be. If you want to go the package route, then this would be a great first choice. It comes with the PC, pads, backing plate, and polishes...basically a whole arsenal for polishing. Bob is a great guy to order from and he offers a 10% forum discount on top of the price you see there.



Otherwise, you need to search more and get a feel for what TYPE of products you want...then look for reviews on the products that fit those categories.
 
You don't need ALL of that stuff posted in the thread you mentioned, but it sure would be nice to have. :chuckle:



For equipment - get yourself a PC and a basic pad kit. I would suggest one that has two cutting, two polishing, and two finishing pads. Its always nice to have a clean pad to go to if your first one gums up. Don't skimp on the MF towels either



In terms of products, Optimum has a great reputation for being very user friendly. Something like Optimum Compound and Optimum Polish would be a good place to start. I used Poorboys SSR 2.5 and SSR1 as my first crack with the PC - they were OK, but I hear Optimums tend to dust and haze a little less. You'll also want a good LSP - lots and lots of opinions out there on those, so just start digging and have fun.
 
Agreed. The PC is a must.... And though I dont use these products myself, my next product order for polishes will include optimum or menzurna - they are discussed to death on this forum so one could assume that they are fairly effective. I am currently using pinnacle products with lake country pads, but after reading more and more on this forum it seems Optimum and menzurna are a sure bet. Menzurna makes a nice acrylic sealant similar to Klasse aswell ,check properautocare.com for some ideas on starter kits that have significant pkg savings. Autogeek.net is a nice site too, even if you dont buy, a lot of information avalible to window shoppers.
 
Alright, I've got my PC...it's sitting in its box begging to be used, but I have to order products first. Here's what I think I am going to try.



I have some Claymagic Clay.

I thought about ordering some OC, OP, and finishing w/ Meguiar's #21.



1) Is that combo compatible?

2) Do I need to order anything else?



Oh yeah, I think I'll just order this, too: Pads or Pads I'd get the VCPF-KIT w/ the second one.



Thanks!
 
That should work out nicely.



Assuming you have the pads and MF towels you will need, the only other thing that might be handy this first time are a QD like Megs #34 to remove any polishing residue that doesn't buff off and to prime the pads (if you want).



Don't expect miracles your first time with the PC. Go slowly on the movements (an inch per second is a good guide) and be prepared to work an area more than once.



Have fun
 
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