Multiple coatings question

[Cliffnopus]

Sufficient time had passed on the new paint job for my Harley; I could finally add some protection. This is 45 days cured, new virgin paint that has only seen Optimum Instant Detailer used to keep the finish clean.

I decided on using Optimum Opti Seal to seal the paint. At the last minute, I decided to top the opti seal, several hours later with a coat of Liquid Souverän from a recently recieved sample. (thanks Meghan). It worked out brilliantly and couldn't have been easier. The reflectivity was noticed by my wife who commented that she could put on her makeup in the finishes reflection.

I tossed around the idea of adding another 'layer' of Liquid Souverän tomorrow and then the thought hit me; would it really do any good?? My questions is: Is there any definitive, not anecdotal, data that shows that mutiple applications of wax/sealer(s) result in multiple levels/layers of product? I have a nagging notion that adding another application of Liquid Souverän would just remove and replace what's on there and not "build-up" an added layer.

I know everyone talks about mutiple coats of wax, etc...but do we really know that it is happening? I'd like to see actual measurements by a wax reflectometer (I just made that up, sounds like a cool tool) to be sure.

Any help on this one?

Cliff

 

[trhland]

from all the reading ive done over a few years about this is you need to wait 24 hours then reapply a second coat of wax. thats what i do . i only apply 2 coats . of wax at the most.so if i were you the next day just goover the bike with a q/d wipe down then go ahead and add another layer of protection. :xyxthumbs:

 

[Buckskincolt]

As Tom said make sure each coat (of what ever you use) has cured then it's OK to add another. I believe there is gain in protection as long as the products being layered on top do not have any cleaners in them. If it has a cleaner then it cleans away the bottom coat so you really don't gain much if anything. If it is a Finishing Wax or sealant then the product will layer and build protection. I believe Liquid Souverän is a finish wax or hybrid.
Here is a great article by mike explaining the difference in LSP's http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...erence-between-cleaner-wax-finishing-wax.html

 

[trhland]

yes true make sure you use a pure carnuaba wax. souveran is fine. :xyxthumbs:

 

[Cliffnopus]

Thanks, I figured that the Souveran would be fine as it's a hybrid sealer/wax with no cleaners. I still have my question about "layering" though and I know we're only talking about microns in thickness.

Cliff

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

The reflectivity was noticed by my wife who commented that she could put on her makeup in the finishes reflection.

Like Brittany using a fender coated with Fuzion?

1994 Porsche Detailed for "Operation Comfort" Modeled by Brittany from Stuart, Florida

I tossed around the idea of adding another 'layer' of Liquid Souverän tomorrow and then the thought hit me; would it really do any good?? My questions is: Is there any definitive, not anecdotal, data that shows that multiple applications of wax/sealer(s) result in multiple levels/layers of product?

I have a nagging notion that adding another application of Liquid Souverän would just remove and replace what's on there and not "build-up" an added layer.

I've written quite a bit on this topic on MOL as "layering" was a hot topic for a number of years... I don't know of any definitive tests off hand but in the big picture instead of trying to create a thick layer of protection, adopt the oil change mentality of preventative maintenance and that goes like this,

You change your engine's oil before the oil is so worn out that the bearing assemblies and other moving parts become damaged.

Add another coat of wax before you know the other coat is completely worn off...


As for you're question about subsequent application simply liquefying previous applications and moving them around or removing them at final wipe-off... some factors come into play and that can be as simple as how gently or aggressively you apply a second product application. The product isn't always as big a factor as the process. Rubbing spit real hard over a waxed surface won't add wax to the surface... what's the opposite of adding?

A good rule of thumb is to apply two thin coats of your favorite LSP this insures,

• Uniform coverage
• Uniform appearance

:xyxthumbs:

 

[Cliffnopus]

Thanks Mike, makes sense. Also thanks for the writeup "What's the deal about layering" well done. I knew the measurements, if any manufacturers have them would be very thin, in the micron level.

My years managing a group of product test engineers has made me somewhat skeptical of just accepting a manufacturers claims without proof.

What you've written has a real common sense ring to it, thanks.

Cliff