when to 'tape-off'

wangotango

wangotango

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I'm assuming that you would use tape to keep from getting a product on rubber/plastic/black trim (glass?).
Seems like some products are ok with it and some are difficult to remove.
I have read labels relating to this but:
In general are there types of products (polish, glaze, sealants, wax) that are not an issue with above-mentioned parts?
Also in general, when is trim taped-off.

I'm new and practicing on some of our vehicles.
 
Oh my.
This must be a stupid question.
My apologies.
 
only use waxes and polish that wont turn white when they come in contact with trim. I never tape never had a problem.
 
Don't worry dude some of mine aren't answered too.
 
thank you rustytruck
I get the turn white part, trying to avoid that.
Since most of the products I'm going to be buying are new to me, which ones turn white on trim?
In other words do synthetics not stain trim but others don't?
Water base do but non water based don't?
Trying to find a "rule of thumb" here I s'pose.
 
Type in the below phrases in "search" and you should be able to get some good info on taping. Unfortunately I don't know how to put these in the proper form so you could get the information easier. Where do you live in the Pacific Northwest?

Taping-off and Covering Up

The Beach Towel Tip

The Soft Flannel Bed Sheet Tip

Tips on Taping Off Thin Paint and Chipped Paint

Tape it off and avoid a lifetime of ugly...

Best Practice - Avoid buffing on top of body lines and edges
 
I don't buy any waxes or polish off this site everything I buy is from a local manufacturer. All their stuff is formulated not to turn white. I'm sure someone will chime in and give you some specific waxes and polish to use.
 
I am far more worried about a burn through on a hard edged crease in the body with the incredibly thin paint these days. So I always tape the high edges.
 
You can only "burn" with a rotary not with a DA.
 
It's a great question, I'd like to know too. I put a drop of the product on my black plastic leaf blower, rub it in and let it dry as a test. Not a good test, but better than nothing. I never want to go back to the days of trying to get Nu Finish off black trim. Maybe try a bike tire too.
 
Webb said:
You can only "burn" with a rotary not with a DA.
Click to expand...

Not true, you can definitely burn through a cc with a DA, especially on raised body lines, ridges, and sharp edges. I suggest these areas should be taped off when machine polishing.
 
I apply Collinite 845 and 476S to the glass, all plastic trim, including the plastic mirror housings and door handles, all rubber trim and all chrome.
This is on an 05 Ford SuperCrew. Almost forgot, I also coat my rims with
it.
 
I'll look into it a bit further.
I'm guessing labels will tell me if the product is safe or not for trim.
S'pose I could test the ones I have and see how it does.

Paul Mitchell - Yakima
 
Most compounds/polishes/waxes/sealants will tell you if they should be kept off of plastic or rubber trim.

At the very least, even if I am only waxing I will tape off the trim pieces between the roof and doors. I figure it's quicker and less tedious then trying to do all of that by hand. Then it's just a quick pass with the PC and done.
 
Railroad - I'll look up those products, thanks.

Would be an interesting list to have of "what's ok " with what kind of trim and "what's not". I think we'd find some constant ingredients in the each category.

I'm also guessing that the veteran detailer knows already what's workin' for him and a search of some of the products gave me good insight as well.

Thanks for all the help everyone!
 
What are some good polishes and compounds that dont turn White ?
 
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