How to test waterless products do not scratch paint?

[rbhula90]

I am new to this forum and have read many threads on waterless washing. I notice many videos are available to show how waterless solution works - most claim waterless products are safe with the proper cleaning technique. I have bought a few products but have been hesitant to use it. Wanted to brainstorm ideas with anyone who has experience. What are some method I could use to test that the product will not scratch painted surfaced (with proper technique)?

I would like to find test method that I could use to show my buddies, cause they tend to be skeptical about products like this also.

My idea:
- find scrap body panel and treat it to eliminate any surface defects
- capture initial picture under controlled lighting
- leave the panel outside for a few days/weeks, to accumulate natural dirt
- use waterless car wash
- capture after picture and compare (look for scratched, swirls)

I'm looking for a quicker method that I may do on the fly. Please, rip my idea apart and offer any suggestions. I appreciate any insight.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Setec Astronomy]

Just to clarify, because sometimes the terminology gets confusing, you are talking about a waterless wash (spray on, wipe off) vs. a rinseless wash (which is used with a bucket, some sort of wash media, then dried after)?

 

[ronkh57]

I did it on a jet black bmw to test it. Did it many times after. No problem.

So it passed the ron test......

 

[Hantra]

Do you need a control? Like, maybe wash half the panel with waterless, and half traditional, or rinseless? Because we're not just looking to see if it scratches. We want to see if it scratches more or less than ____.

I would carefully measure out your product, so you're using the same amount each time. I don't think this should be a one time test. It could go for a while, if you're up to it.

And lastly, I would try and rig up some kind of jig to pull across the panel, so that you're applying the exact same amount of pressure with each pass. Like maybe put a bit of weight on a block of wood, and put your folded microfiber under it, and pull it across the panel, instead of applying your traditional varying pressure.

None of these are absolutely necessary, but if you're looking to do some science, might as well try and mitigate any variances in the system, IMO. Regardless, I'm looking forward to seeing the results.

 

[FUNX650]

threads on waterless washing.
videos...

most claim waterless products are safe
with the proper cleaning technique.

What are some method I could use to test
that the product will not scratch painted surfaced
(with proper technique)?

I would like to find test method that I could
use to show my buddies, cause they tend to
be skeptical about products like this...

•If it's "technique" you're looking for, then:
-I'll suggest to follow AGO forum member
Marc's directions on:
"How-To Do A Waterless Car Wash"; per:

"Michael Stoops Waterless Wash Method"...(or MSWWM for short)

•The MSWWM can be found in the following thread:
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/product-reviews/60643-review-how-ultima-waterless-wash-plus.html

Note, and IMO:
•The brand of the Waterless Wash in this How-To
of Marc's can be substituted with others of equal
stated characteristics.

-After all, isn't it the technique/tools, not the
cleaning fluid itself, that may most likely be
the paint-blemish-inducing culprits?
-Just a thought.




Bob

 

[rbhula90]

Just to clarify, because sometimes the terminology gets confusing, you are talking about a waterless wash (spray on, wipe off) vs. a rinseless wash (which is used with a bucket, some sort of wash media, then dried after)?

Yes, that's correct. I'm interested in testing this just for waterless washing (spray on, wipe), as you mentioned.

 

[Detailsbydaniel]

Yes, that's correct. I'm interested in testing this just for waterless washing (spray on, wipe), as you mentioned.

Waterless is not really intended for vehicles that have dirt present, rinseless washing is more what your describing to me. Waterless wash is good for show cars or vehicles that do not see the elements of the real world outside of blue sky and sun. Waterless is great for the quick wipe down with a minor amount of surface dust that is present, or if your at a show a small shower comes through you can waterless wash it so no water spotting is present. This is my personal opinion and might be completely invalid but we all have our own methods.

 

[rbhula90]

Awesome, that's good to hear.

I am curious though, if you recall, what level of contamination does your car typically have?
I'm assuming it's well kept (light dust) if you're frequently cleaning but have you ever tried this with moderate and heavy contamination?

Thank you!

 

[pheerix]

Just use your own car. That shows the most confidence in the product and technique. I'll go as long as a week of regular commuting, 44 miles freeway roundtrip, as long as it didn't rain or there aren't too many bugs splattered on the front bumper.

 

[rbhula90]

I did it on a jet black bmw to test it. Did it many times after. No problem.

So it passed the ron test......

Awesome, that's good to hear.

I am curious though, if you recall, what level of contamination does your car typically have?
I'm assuming it's well kept (light dust) if you're frequently cleaning but have you ever tried this with moderate and heavy contamination?

Thank you!

 

[rbhula90]

Do you need a control? Like, maybe wash half the panel with waterless, and half traditional, or rinseless? Because we're not just looking to see if it scratches. We want to see if it scratches more or less than ____.

I would carefully measure out your product, so you're using the same amount each time. I don't think this should be a one time test. It could go for a while, if you're up to it.

And lastly, I would try and rig up some kind of jig to pull across the panel, so that you're applying the exact same amount of pressure with each pass. Like maybe put a bit of weight on a block of wood, and put your folded microfiber under it, and pull it across the panel, instead of applying your traditional varying pressure.

None of these are absolutely necessary, but if you're looking to do some science, might as well try and mitigate any variances in the system, IMO. Regardless, I'm looking forward to seeing the results.

Hantra, yes, I am trying to experiment to compare waterless washing to other methods. I may even go the extent to purchase and panel with dark paint, hopefully black, and use that as a test method. I like the idea of keeping the wiping procedure consistent and will consider your suggestion. Thanks for the advice!

I

 

[rbhula90]

•If it's "technique" you're looking for, then:
-I'll suggest to follow AGO forum member
Marc's directions on:
"How-To Do A Waterless Car Wash"; per:




•The MSWWM can be found in the following thread:
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/product-reviews/60643-review-how-ultima-waterless-wash-plus.html

Note, and IMO:
•The brand of the Waterless Wash in this How-To
of Marc's can be substituted with others of equal
stated characteristics.

-After all, isn't it the technique/tools, not the
cleaning fluid itself, that may most likely be
the paint-blemish-inducing culprits?
-Just a thought.




Bob

Thank you Bob I will check the link.

I agree the procedure is a large contributor to surface defects when cleaning. I would like to put the uncertainty to rest and test if the solutions actually 'lower surface tension' between grit/dirt and the surface it's on. I understand time and thermal conditions could play a factor.

Maybe I am question the topic too much but regardless, I appreciate the info!

 

[cleanmycorolla]

why bother buying an entire panel to test, do a small area on your car and if it causes damage(which is highly unlikely) just polish it out. If it does damage a mild polish would remove any marring cause by it!

Also, and just an opinion, but no matter what you do, your rides is going to get scratches, have fun with the hobby and try not to go down the rabbit hole of buying test panels just to test marring most people will tell you they won't experience with waterless and rinseless Enjoy!