Review: Finish Kare #108: Top Kote Tire Dressing

CEE DOG

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Review: Finish Kare #108: Top Kote Tire Dressing

Introduction:

Hi guys! I got an email from Eric (budhoehn) a few weeks ago asking me if I had tried this product. My reply was no so he generously sent me a sample and asked if I would provide some thoughts. Eric, my apologies for an extremely speedy review this time around!!

Product Info from Finish Kare:

- A liquid polymer sealant conditioner formulated to condition, restore and protect leather surfaces and all interior/exterior plastic, rubber and vinyl surfaces.
- It leaves a like new finish that is not greasy or wet.
- Excellent for use on leather interiors, dashes, engine compartments, tires, rubber trim and molding.
- #180AS is enriched with an anti-static agent to eliminate dust attraction.
DIRECTIONS: Use as is. Do not apply on suede. Spray or wipe on using 100% terry cloth towel or soft applicator pad. Allow it to dry, wipe surplus material slightly.


Details:

1.- Packaging: N/A - Sample
2.- Directions: From Internet (Clear and Simple)
3.- Viscosity: Very Thin
4.- Color: White
5.- Scent: Forgot to sniff it
6.- Regular Price: 31 oz. $15.99
7.- Manufacturer: Finish Kare
8.-Made in: Would appear to be USA but who really knows?
9.- Finish Kare was founded in 1964 by Floyd Meguiar

Method of Preparation:

APC scrub / Wash / IPA Wipedown

Product used for application:

Dragon Cloth

Application:

On interior, wheels, and exterior trim the application method was the same. Spray onto my dragon cloth and buff in. After 1 hour I lightly buffed the surface. On all surfaces I found it darkened nicely…on black particularly well. On extremely faded trim it was unable to do much. The surface doesn’t feel greasy but maybe a bit tacky. I’ll report back after another day or so. Also big rainstorms coming so will see if it runs soon!!

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Pros:

1.- Application: Easy
2.- Appearance: Darkens the surface without excess gloss
3.- Versatility: Use on exterior trim and tires, interior vinyl and leather, and under the engine bay


???:

1.- What will the durability be?

Cons:

1.-Not a trim restorer when dealing with very faded trim


Final Observations and Summary:

Finish Kare #108 appears to be a jack of all trades. It is simple to apply, decent price as quality car care products go and can be used on multiple surfaces. On extremely faded trim it fell a bit short but on standard faded trim that still has some pigment it darkened nicely without adding much gloss. As always durability on exterior trim will make a big difference in my final thoughts. I compared it next to PERL as it too can be applied to all of the rubber and vinyl surfaces. Initial appearance on gray exterior trim appears to be very similar. Appearance on black interior surfaces appears to be a bit different but still similar. #108 appeared to be slightly more matte while PERL appeared with a satin look and slightly darker. PERL is concentrated and should be diluted between 1 and 5 parts water while #108 cannot.
 
I've used #108 for a year or so now, and I find that the best place it works is for wheel wells. Keeps them nice and dark while keeping the dust out from them.
 
Thank you Corey, I use it undiluted on exterior but do dilute it 1:1 on the interior. I was really interested how it compared to Perl. When I'm out of 108 I will get Perl more than likely. I do like the 108 though.
 
Thanks for the info guys! Eric, you were right on with your thoughts and what to compare it to. Good to know I can dilute it also! How long does it last on exteriors in rain?
 
Nice review. Looks like another solid product from FK.

There seems to be no shortage of faded Saturn bumpers to use as test samples. ;)
 
Always great reviews Corey! Can't wait to see how it holds up!
 
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