[Detailed Image]

Originally Posted by snowman81

Greg, thanks. It's definitely exciting...and tiring having a little one around. I try to head out to the garage and pass up the nap time. We'll see how long that lasts.
As for the paint, I can definitely see the orange peel but I guess I never thought I'd be able to feel it. I did go over another section of the hood with the clay just to make sure I was putting in enough elbow grease into it and I didn't have any better results. The paint looks great IMO so maybe it is orange peel that I'm feeling. As usual, thanks for all the help. Also just got the stuff I ordered...leatherique, 303 protectant, sonax wheel cleaner and some snappy clean. You guys are great, fast shipping and good prices.

Glad to hear you're getting some free time with the new born around. My brother and his wife are expecting a boy this summer and I'm excited for that!

Thank you for the order I sincerely appreciate it! I like your list of products a lot I think you'll love them! To some extent yes you will definitely feel the orange peel. Contaminants will feel like an abrupt bump where as the orange peel feels just more consistently uneven. Even though most people don't want to hear it, in general I recommend most people to "just live with it". I don't mean to be harsh but removing orange peel can be tricky and is generally something that should be left to an expert detailer. In this article you can see Rasky do a full wet sand if interested (http://www.detailedimage.com/Ask-a-P...e-orange-peel/). I hope this info helps!

Greg @ DI

[CLE-335]

I want to thank you for the best thread for detailing. All my questions were answered simply by reading the posts and I have since dropped some cash on your site for products I never knew existed. I have been using Zaino by hand for years but now I am diving into a PC7424xp for the first time and some Megs 105/205, Poor Boys Black Hole and Blackfire sealant.

Thanks again Detailed Image!

[Brent]

Originally Posted by Detailed Image

You are right the marketing and hype of certain products far exceed the actual performance, however there are several products that do work extremely well in long term protection.

As mentioned above the CarPro Cquartz Ceramic Quartz Paint Protection and Optimum Opti-Coat 2.0 Permanent Paint Coating are the real deal. These products offer protection that can last years and really protect the clear coat extremely well.

Check out these articles about the Opti-Coat:
http://www.detailedimage.com/Ask-a-P...opti-coat-2-0/
http://www.detailedimage.com/Ask-a-P...pearance-mods/

Let me know if you have any other questions and I'll be happy to help.

Greg @ DI

Thanks Greg, I appreciate the response. I might try one of the two listed. It sounds as if the CQuartz might be the easier of the two to work with for a less experienced person like myself as opposed to a professional detailer? I see the warnings on the Opti Coat 2 about high spots and such. Am I correct in that assumption?

I appreciate the candid answer. So many of the "high tech" nano products come with so much hype that it is really hard for the average guy to filter through what is true and what is BS. It makes sense to me that chemists will work on new & better products, and I hope to use such, but then some of the advertisements seem to be unadulterated BS and it strains belief. I think it is better for a guy like me to listen to a voice of experience rather than stumble along blindly trying different products, so I do appreciate your advice.

[snowman81]

Greg, thanks again. I'll definitely take your recommendation and just live with the orange peel. This obviously isn't a show car and there is no need for me to attempt wet sanding or to spend the money to have the whole car wet sanded. I'm very happy with what you've guided me on thus far. Just finished M105/M205 and got a couple panels of BFWD done. It looks great, but my car is silver. I can't wait to do my wife's dark gray RDX. Her car has some swirl marks and since its darker I feel like i'll be able to see the results a lot better.

[reddemon73]

Greg,
I have purchased all my detailing products from you in the past year and want to thank you for the great products and service you provided.

I need your expert opinion on my situation. I have an 2011 mineral white E92. The have the car for about a year now. I have never waxed or polish before. I noticed a couple of swirl mark on the trunk lid the other night. I'm thinking I need to do a complete detail on the car. I have a PC 7424 polisher I purchased a few years back but have never used it. I really dread doing the clay bar part of the detail. I'm afraid I might mess up the paint on my car. I saw recently from a thread on this board about a new product called NanoSkin Autoscrub. This is suppose to replace claying and take less time. Do you have any experience with this product? advantage and disadvantage to using this product vs. claying? I need your assistance in recommending good pads for my PC. I also need your help on the polishing step and sealant/wax part. Should I go with zaino products or other brands?

Thank you for all your help.

[BrazilianBimmer]

What product/s, equipment to use to clean the carpet inside a car?
My carpet has spots on it.

[Detailed Image]

Originally Posted by CLE-335

I want to thank you for the best thread for detailing. All my questions were answered simply by reading the posts and I have since dropped some cash on your site for products I never knew existed. I have been using Zaino by hand for years but now I am diving into a PC7424xp for the first time and some Megs 105/205, Poor Boys Black Hole and Blackfire sealant.

Thanks again Detailed Image!

Great post!!! We're all thrilled you were able to search and find the answers you were looking for. I like the items you picked up and I'm confident you'll love the results. Let me know if you have any questions.

Greg @ DI

[Detailed Image]

Originally Posted by Brent

Thanks Greg, I appreciate the response. I might try one of the two listed. It sounds as if the CQuartz might be the easier of the two to work with for a less experienced person like myself as opposed to a professional detailer? I see the warnings on the Opti Coat 2 about high spots and such. Am I correct in that assumption?

I appreciate the candid answer. So many of the "high tech" nano products come with so much hype that it is really hard for the average guy to filter through what is true and what is BS. It makes sense to me that chemists will work on new & better products, and I hope to use such, but then some of the advertisements seem to be unadulterated BS and it strains belief. I think it is better for a guy like me to listen to a voice of experience rather than stumble along blindly trying different products, so I do appreciate your advice.

I understand that there is so much BS/marketing hype it's hard to read between the lines. I'd encourage you to check out our Ask a Pro Blog for more unbiased advice and info, it's a great resource that I learn from as well.

The original Opti-Coat was definitely much harder to work with but version 2 is relatively user friendly. I would say the application is pretty similar between the two, if you leave ridges or high spots you'll simply want to polish them for perfection. You can't go wrong either way, both are outstanding.

Take care!

Greg @ DI

[Detailed Image]

Originally Posted by reddemon73

Greg,
I have purchased all my detailing products from you in the past year and want to thank you for the great products and service you provided.

I need your expert opinion on my situation. I have an 2011 mineral white E92. The have the car for about a year now. I have never waxed or polish before. I noticed a couple of swirl mark on the trunk lid the other night. I'm thinking I need to do a complete detail on the car. I have a PC 7424 polisher I purchased a few years back but have never used it. I really dread doing the clay bar part of the detail. I'm afraid I might mess up the paint on my car. I saw recently from a thread on this board about a new product called NanoSkin Autoscrub. This is suppose to replace claying and take less time. Do you have any experience with this product? advantage and disadvantage to using this product vs. claying? I need your assistance in recommending good pads for my PC. I also need your help on the polishing step and sealant/wax part. Should I go with zaino products or other brands?

Thank you for all your help.

Glad to hear you have a PC and you are ready to make the vehicle lok like new again. Doing a full detail does take a lot of time but the results are well worth it and there are some new products out that will save you a lot of time that I'll highlight below.

Wash / Dry
Most swirls come from this process so be sure to use good technique and quality products. If you need to upgrade your products check out these kits:
DI Packages Washing and Drying Basic Kit
DI Packages Washing and Drying Starter Package

Before drying the vehicle the CarPro Iron X Iron Remover is an amazing product. Simply mist it on the paint let it dwell for about two minutes and watch it break down embedded iron deposits. If you have any stubborn areas wipe them with your wash mitt and light pressure before rinsing off.

Clay Bar
Traditionally we've recommended a clay bar and lube but some more time efficient options do exist. If you do want to use a clay bar check out the DI Packages DI Gentle Fine Grade Clay Bar 100g & Clay Lube. The NanoSkin AutoScrub Medium Foam Pad is another option that is much faster! It is just as thorough as clay but you may not be able to get in to tight spaces with it. It can add imperfections to the paint like a clay bar can but with some basic precautions it's a pretty safe and effective option. If you are polishing afterward you can remove any micro-abrasions afterward anyway.

Polish
This is the step where you actually remove the swirls for good and restore that like new shine again!
Meguiar's Ultra-Cut Compound M105 - Lake Country Orange Light Cutting Pad 2x
Meguiar's Ultra Finishing Polish M205 - Lake Country White Polishing Pad 2x

Sealant
Protect the shine and enhance it!
Blackfire Wet Diamond with Polycharger - Lake Country Blue Fine Finishing Pad 1x

Wax
A sealant provides more than enough protection and an outstanding shine so you can certainly stop there. If you want the maximum gloss apply a wax on top of the sealant.
Poorboy's World Liquid Natty's Blue Wax - Lake Country Blue Fine Finishing Pad

Hand remove all of these products with CLEAN microfiber towels. I highly recommend picking up about 5x - 10x DI Microfiber All Purpose Towel.

If you have any questions please check out our detailing guide or ask me I'd be happy to help!

Greg @ DI

[Detailed Image]

Originally Posted by BrazilianBimmer

What product/s, equipment to use to clean the carpet inside a car?
My carpet has spots on it.

I use a medium scrub brush and the 303 Cleaner & Spot Remover. Spray the affected area and brush it in multiple different directions. If that doesn't remove it spray it again, let it sit for 1 - 2 minutes then agitate the stains again with your brush after you have dipped your brush in a tray of hot water. This is my go to interior cleaner that I highly recommend!

Greg @ DI

[BrazilianBimmer]

Nice, thank you
what if stains are all over the carpet? should I use a wet/dry van instead?
could I used this stain remover u recommended and suck it up with vac?

Originally Posted by Detailed Image

I use a medium scrub brush and the 303 Cleaner & Spot Remover. Spray the affected area and brush it in multiple different directions. If that doesn't remove it spray it again, let it sit for 1 - 2 minutes then agitate the stains again with your brush after you have dipped your brush in a tray of hot water. This is my go to interior cleaner that I highly recommend!

Greg @ DI

[Detailed Image]

Originally Posted by BrazilianBimmer

Nice, thank you
what if stains are all over the carpet? should I use a wet/dry van instead?
could I used this stain remover u recommended and suck it up with vac?

This product should be fine to use all over and it works in extractors if needed. I would just spray it all over and use a brush, I've found this to be even more effective than just an extractor. If desired you can use a wet dry vac after to accelerate the drying process. If not just try not to use excessive amounts of water and leave the doors open so air can circulate.

The 303 Fabric & Vinyl Cleaner is the concentrated version of this same cleaner if interested. It can be diluted up to 10:1, I personally use it around 6:1 - 8:1, regardless it's an amazing value.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Greg @ DI

[mjz]

Just sent you a PM I've been following this great thread online. Wondered if you would also recommend an auto care package for me. I just purchased my first BMW, a 2009 335i convertible. It's a CPO from the local dealer. Black with red leather. It's my everyday driver car and I have children. Not a lot of time to detail it constantly, but want to take care of it. Recommendations on a full car care package? I need it all!

Thanks in advance.

[rogerdiaz]

Is it okay to use Optimum Spray Wax after using quick detailer (optimum no rinse mixture)? Will the wax actually stay on or does car need to be rinsed with 100% water and dried for it to work??

Thanks,

Roger

[jiaan13]

This isn't BMW-related, but I'm hoping you guys can help. I have a white 1994 Volvo 940 turbo with a lot of deposits on the paint. It used to be garaged, but my 335d took its place :P.

I wax it 2x/yr and clay once a year, but it was never "buttery smooth". I use Meguiar's clay, but it doesn't pick up everything-- even after claying the same 2'x2' section for ~10 mins. Should I be using a different type of clay? More aggressive clay? Any help would be appreciated

[Detailed Image]

Originally Posted by mjz

Just sent you a PM I've been following this great thread online. Wondered if you would also recommend an auto care package for me. I just purchased my first BMW, a 2009 335i convertible. It's a CPO from the local dealer. Black with red leather. It's my everyday driver car and I have children. Not a lot of time to detail it constantly, but want to take care of it. Recommendations on a full car care package? I need it all!

Thanks in advance.

Congrats on the new ride! I'm going to suggest a full detail as I normally would with some of my favorite products.

Wash and Dry
Most swirls come from this process so be sure to use good technique and quality products. If you need to upgrade your products check out these kits:
DI Packages Washing and Drying Basic Kit
DI Packages Washing and Drying Starter Package

Clay Bar
Helps deep clean the paint.
DI Packages DI Gentle Fine Grade Clay Bar 100g & Clay Lube

Polish
This is the step where you actually remove the swirls for good and restore that like new shine again!
Meguiar's Ultra-Cut Compound M105 - Lake Country Orange Light Cutting Pad 2x
Meguiar's Ultra Finishing Polish M205 - Lake Country White Polishing Pad 2x

Sealant
Protect the shine and enhance it!
Blackfire Wet Diamond with Polycharger - Lake Country Blue Fine Finishing Pad 1x

Wax
A sealant provides more than enough protection and an outstanding shine so you can certainly stop there. If you want the maximum gloss apply a wax on top of the sealant.
Poorboy's World Liquid Natty's Blue Wax - Lake Country Blue Fine Finishing Pad

Hand remove all of these products with CLEAN microfiber towels. I highly recommend picking up about 5x - 10x DI Microfiber All Purpose Towel.

If you have any questions please check out our detailing guide or ask me I'd be happy to help!

Wheels and Tires
To clean the wheels I highly recommend the SONAX Wheel Cleaner Full Effect. It's my favorite wheel cleaner because of how effectively it breaks down brake dust and road grime. Best of all it's pH neutral so it's safe on your wheels and you don't have to worry about any staining or discoloration. After you have thoroughly cleaned them you can protect them with virtually any sealant or pick up a wheel specific product like the Poorboy's World Wheel Sealant. It's a great way to protect the wheel's finish and it makes future cleanings much easier! It applies with ease, smells amazing and one jar can protect 100+ wheels.

TUF SHINE Tire Appearance Kit is easily my favorite tire care product, just thoroughly clean the tires with the supplied cleaner and the tire clear coat will provide you a shine that lasts MONTHS, not days or weeks.

Interior
The Leatherique products are my go to choice for the leather seats, they do a great job of cleaning and conditioning the leather. The 303 Cleaner & Spot Remover is perfect for interior cleanings as it can be used safely on the doors, dashboard, console, etc.

303 Aerospace Protectant protects just about the whole interior (vinyl, plastic, rubber, leather). It blocks out UV rays and preserves the finish so apply it to the dashboard, doors, console, arm rests, exterior trim, rubber moldings, etc. etc. Protecting the carpets and mats is super easy just mist the 303 High Tech Fabric Guard on them and you are done! It will help repel moisture while keeping the fibers flexible and soft.

If you follow these basic pre-cautions your vehicle will look great for years to come and keep the re-sale value up! If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask. Take care!

Greg @ DI

[Detailed Image]

Originally Posted by rogerdiaz

Is it okay to use Optimum Spray Wax after using quick detailer (optimum no rinse mixture)? Will the wax actually stay on or does car need to be rinsed with 100% water and dried for it to work??

Thanks,

Roger

Roger,

If you've washed with the ONR or just used it as a quick detailer the spray wax should still bond to the surface fairly well. Try to make sure you've removed the excess ONR and let the surface dry before applying a nice thin coating.

Greg @ DI

[Detailed Image]

Originally Posted by plantationwalrus

This isn't BMW-related, but I'm hoping you guys can help. I have a white 1994 Volvo 940 turbo with a lot of deposits on the paint. It used to be garaged, but my 335d took its place :P.

I wax it 2x/yr and clay once a year, but it was never "buttery smooth". I use Meguiar's clay, but it doesn't pick up everything-- even after claying the same 2'x2' section for ~10 mins. Should I be using a different type of clay? More aggressive clay? Any help would be appreciated

I'm not sure what the issue is but give the age of the vehicle and the fact that those previous efforts didn't solve it here is what I recommend:

Wash and Dry - should remove most of the loose build ups
CarPro Iron X Iron Remover - helps remove embedded iron deposits from brake dust, rail dust, etc.
Clay Bar or NanoSkin AutoScrub Medium Foam Pad - to remove the remaining deposits and ensure the surface is contaminant free
Polishing - This is the step where you really create the shine and remove micro-fine surface abrasions (ie swirls, oxidation, etc.). It's the most important step in getting that deep shine back and ideally I'd recommend a two step process with a buffer. If you have the time this kit would be absolutely ideal - DI Packages PC 7424XP with M105, M205 and 5.5" pads. If you don't the time or funds I'd still highly recommend doing at least a one step process with medium pressure with the Meguiar's Ultra Finishing Polish M205.
Protection - Apply your favorite sealant or wax, I personally recommend sealants since they are so much more durable. The Blackfire Wet Diamond All Finish Paint Protection is my favorite because of the incredible shine, protection and ease of use.

Let me know if you have any other questions and I'll be happy to help.

Greg @ DI

[mjz]

Greg,

Thanks for the detailed recommendation. I placed my first order earlier this week. It should be here tomorrow!

-Marc

[Detailed Image]

Very much appreciated! I hope you enjoy the products!

Greg @ DI

[mjz]

Greg - I received my products and got to work on my interior this weekend. Let me first off say that the products you recommended are awesome. Noticeable difference. Now my wife wants me to tackle the interior of her 6 year old mini-van!

A couple of follow-up questions for you....
1) I noticed that on my driver seat some of the leather seemed to "rub off" and a bit of red dye came up from the leather. NOTE: I used Leatherique. I'm guessing this has something to do with the seat being a little worn in a couple of spots. What should I do?

2) I got Leatherique on a few black plastic parts of my 335i. The Leatherique caused some of the matte black finish to "blister and pop". Now revealing a shiny black undercoat. Guessing I should not have let the Leatherique sit on it. Anything I can do?

Thanks again.

-Marc

[Detailed Image]

Originally Posted by mjz

Greg - I received my products and got to work on my interior this weekend. Let me first off say that the products you recommended are awesome. Noticeable difference. Now my wife wants me to tackle the interior of her 6 year old mini-van!

A couple of follow-up questions for you....
1) I noticed that on my driver seat some of the leather seemed to "rub off" and a bit of red dye came up from the leather. NOTE: I used Leatherique. I'm guessing this has something to do with the seat being a little worn in a couple of spots. What should I do?

2) I got Leatherique on a few black plastic parts of my 335i. The Leatherique caused some of the matte black finish to "blister and pop". Now revealing a shiny black undercoat. Guessing I should not have let the Leatherique sit on it. Anything I can do?

Thanks again.

-Marc

Marc,

Glad to hear the products overall were a huge success! Others asking you do their vehicle is inevitable when you do good work. Just make sure you are compensated, lol.

As for the Leatherique I'm guessing you may have rubbed a little too hard while working them in. I would only use very light pressure going forward and monitor trouble spots. In general the dye should not be coming off so if it keeps happening you may want to stop or be extra careful. To be safe I would apply the Leatherique with literally my bare hands, since they are softer. I would also use less product so less would need to be wiped away afterward.

In general the Leatherique products work great on vinyl trim. I've used it to treat vinyl that looked overly dull and it can make it look normal again. Since it works so well on vinyl I'm surprised to hear it may have caused any issues on plastics. I've honestly never heard of this type of issue so I'm not sure happened. Leatherique is a gentle all natural formula so I would normally think it was not cause. The marks could have come from something else being used in the vehicle but maybe it was just noticed as you got close to it. If you are certain it was the cause I guess I would just be very careful with the application and only pour it on, don't use a spray top. Sorry I don't have more specifics for you.

Greg @ DI