Too many sealant options!

mc01ta

New member
I pretty much have my detailing routine down on my 2001 Black Trans Am. I like my 845 IW ok, doesn't seem to last as long as everybody states. I'm set on my process below as i have great results with:



wash

clay

wash

IP

FPII

AIO

?



I see too many great posts about Finish Kare sealants, Chemical Guys, etc. I want something cost effective (under $20), is durable, easy to use and has great looks.



845 IW is easy to use but doesn't seem anywhere near as durable as people speak of. I saw water stop beading after 2 weeks in normal VA weather. I then took AIO to the car and reapplied 845 for the same results. I spread 845 by using PC, is this the problem? I let it sit for close to 15 minutes per panel then took off with a microfiber.
 
mc01ta said:
845 IW is easy to use but doesn't seem anywhere near as durable as people speak of. I saw water stop beading after 2 weeks in normal VA weather. I then took AIO to the car and reapplied 845 for the same results. I spread 845 by using PC, is this the problem? I let it sit for close to 15 minutes per panel then took off with a microfiber.



Hmmm, and the AIO was your base for the 845? I also apply mine via PC, but I wait until it wipes cleanly with a finger "swipe".
 
yup, my base. I was happy with product but feel that some OTC products I could have better durability with.
 
How about trying Collinite's 476S paste wax? The last car I used it on was a loaner from my mechanic- one coat over a month ago. Been parked outside ever since (tree droppings, bad weather, you name it) and I run it through the local touchless when it looks too awful. Still beading like crazy in the rain, still feels nice and slick, still looks fine. Remember that most (all?) sealants won't be as forgiving of imperfect prep/marring as a wax will and I'd take any durability claims with a grain of salt..



I use KSG on my minivan but I keep it marring-free and I apply many layers. Not wild about the look. I like how UPP looks on my S8, but it's pampered and I don't think about durability (the wonderful slickness drops off so I'm refreshing it frequently).



Applying the 845 by PC shouldn't compromise its durability. If anything, just make sure you let it set up long enough before you buff it off. I believe that the closer one gets to W-O-W-O type applications the greater the chance of compromised durability (not always with everything, but often enough that it's worth considering). You might try letting it dry for an exaggerated lenght of time, like an hour or so. My niece-in-law uses it on my old Volvo wagon (also outside 24/7) down in Memphis and it lasts a *lot* longer than two weeks for her.
 
I second the 476 ..I love it...



01cb60e5.jpg


IMG_2446.jpg


IMG_2447.jpg




All of those are with the 476 on it
 
Often times washing the car can renew the water beading. I've had great success with 845, its my go-to wax by far.



If you want to go the sealant route, Chemicalguys Factory Sealant is amazing in my opinion. I love topping Klasse AIO with it. I feel that for a sealant it has above-average ability to hide imperfections, is incredibly easy to use, and very cost-effective as it takes very little to do an entire car. CG claims that it will last 3-6 months.



Personally, I would combine the best of all three products and start with AIO, then Factory Sealant, then Collinite. Unnecessary, but so much fun...
 
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