What to use!!

[chrt396]

Hi y'all!! Being a newbie on this forum...I have a question...well...maybe a few.

New Ford F-150 in silver color with black leather interior.

I just bought the truck last week. Of course..I want it to look its best. Here is what I have done so far.

1. Applied Surf City Garage Carnuba Paste Wax
2. Followed up with Surf City Garage Speed Demon Wax Detailer.
3. Used Meguiars Gold Class Rich Leather cleaner/conditioner

Then...searched and found products on Auto Geeks

4. Applied Pinnacle Sovereign Paste wax
5. Followed up with Pinnacle Crystal Mist AND Finish Kare 425

I have been experimenting with different polishes and waxes over time and with my last truck.. ended up settling on Surf City Garage products. Then..just yesterday.. I received some products from Auto Geek. However...with a silver truck...with Ford's less than stellar paint...what is the best wax..sealant..polish..that I can use? I care somewhat about durability..but I really want a great shine that will last for 3 or 4 months. I have no problem using a spray detailer in between waxes..but what is the best product out there for a silver finish?

I also bought Pinnacles Black Label Hide-Soft Cleaner as well as the Conditioner. Is that considered one of the best products out there to protect leather?

Your feedback is surely needed!!

OH..by the way...I bought a 7" DA polisher from Sears that they had for $79 and came with a yellow and an orange sponge applicator. Apparently....I have no clue how to use it...since I splattered some liquid Surf City Garage LIQUID carnuba wax all over windshield and cowl. Is a DA even needed on a newer vehicle? I have it boxed up and ready to return! It took me longer to clean up the mess than it took to wax the entire truck! I apparently removed the buffer before it stopped spinning and presto-bingo...a big mess!!!

 

[zx10r Elle]

Hello chrt396,

Forgive me if I missed it another post of yours but it almost seems as if you're putting the 'cart before the horse'. Once you received the vehicle did you perform a proper 'prep'? By that I mean good solid wash, followed by a clay / decontamination of the paintwork... Iron-X, etc. Followed by inspection of the paint to determine the condition regarding spiderwebbing, swirls, marring, minor scratches whatnot. Almost certainly guaranteed the paint is not perfect from a dealership especially with light colored finishes such as silver, white, tan/cream etc, it will be difficult to tell unless specifically looked for.

And if such is true then thats what will rob you of your 'Silver Pop', no amount of waxes, sealants, coatings, QDs, etc will compensate for hidden imperfections in the paint system.

After a nice prep then you can follow with whichever quality protection system suits your fancy. Soveran Paste Wax is excellent but it almost sounds like your 'smothering' it with other toppers thereby defeating the purpose of Soveran; which is a nice deep wet look unless I read your post inaccurately.

For longevity 3 months from any of the products you listed would be 'best case' scenarios, many other options could give far longer durability, if thats desired.

Something to consider also is how often you touch your paint determines how quickly it degrades and loses it luster, 3 months for a re-wax means 4 times a year for the process, not to mention how often and how you wash the vehicle, which many state thats when most micro-scratches occur, alternatively a wax/sealant that lasts 6 months means you re-seal the paint twice rather than 4 times, and sealants tend to release contaminants easier which means less harsh wash regimes. Expect also once a year to 'correct' the paint finish to remove all those swirlies and such to reinvigorate that 'Silver Pop'.

As far as the leather is protected from spills, dirt, dye transfer, body oils, and UV damage most anything appropriate is fine, the Black Label Hide-Soft Leather is excellent, 'best' is subjective, most anything on AG made for leather protection is fantastic as long as its used.

Careful of the pads that come bundled with the Sears polisher, they're likely to do more harm than good, Lake Country has fine pads as well as Meguiars, Griots and others.

If you determine the condition of the paint finish is not what you expected then you can decide whether a DA is necessary on a new vehicle. A nice DA will make brightening up your silver truck a more pleasurable experience thats for sure.

Then again, if the paint is currently flawless then most of what I said is moot.

Steve

 

[chrt396]

I did examine the paint for fall out, which is crazy in my area. It did have some imperfections. I used "Top Of The Line - Clay Away", and removed the imperfections. About 90% of what I found was on the hood! I smoothed it out...and applied the SC Paste Carnuba. (2 coats) THEN I applied the Pinnacle Sovereign. I have "dusted it" with SC Speed Demon..then the two other products I received from AG.

What do you recommend that I do at this point?

 

[custmsprty]

You're using too many different products and too many layers of them. Pick one and stick with it.

If longevity is not your goal than Pinnacle Souveran is the way to go. It's great on silver paints and metallic flakes.

It should be your last step product and not topped with other waxes and definitely not sealants.

If you want to do two steps for better longevity for our Tampa weather go with a sealant first for durability then top it with Souveran.

I have topped Wolfgang 3.0 with Souveran with exceptional results.

 

[chrt396]

You're using too many different products and too many layers of them. Pick one and stick with it.

If longevity is not your goal than Pinnacle Souveran is the way to go. It's great on silver paints and metallic flakes.

It should be your last step product and not topped with other waxes and definitely not sealants.

If you want to do two steps for better longevity for our Tampa weather go with a sealant first for durability then top it with Souveran.

I have topped Wolfgang 3.0 with Souveran with exceptional results.

OK..now that I've gone crazy and applied all this stuff...what should I do? Should I strip and start over...or just leave it be? I figured putting two or three coats of Carnuba would have been OK...since it says on the can that you can put multiple coats on the finish. However...It does not say to apply them in three consecutive days..but back in the day..I used to hear guys say that they had 4 or 5 coats of Carnuba wax on the finish.

If I need to just leave it be, how long should I re-apply and also...does it matter if I use one of the following - the Speed Demon Carnuba detailer...Pinnacle Crystal Mist or FinishKare in between waxes..or is that piling on too much ?

Set me straight..and I shall follow!

 

[custmsprty]

OK..now that I've gone crazy and applied all this stuff...what should I do? Should I strip and start over...or just leave it be? I figured putting two or three coats of Carnuba would have been OK...since it says on the can that you can put multiple coats on the finish. However...It does not say to apply them in three consecutive days..but back in the day..I used to hear guys say that they had 4 or 5 coats of Carnuba wax on the finish.

If I need to just leave it be, how long should I re-apply and also...does it matter if I use one of the following - the Speed Demon Carnuba detailer...Pinnacle Crystal Mist or FinishKare in between waxes..or is that piling on too much ?

Set me straight..and I shall follow!

I'd just let it be.

3,4,5 plus coats is pretty much diminishing returns. And some products may remove the other product in the process.

Go with the flow, the detailing flow that is.

Their is so much information on AG's store site, here you go, read all you can.

Auto Detailing Facts, auto detailing Tips, How to detailing Guides, how to polish, how to wax, DIY detailing, do it yourself guides

 

[chrt396]

I'd just let it be.

3,4,5 plus coats is pretty much diminishing returns. And some products may remove the other product in the process.

Go with the flow, the detailing flow that is.

Their is so much information on AG's store site, here you go, read all you can.

Auto Detailing Facts, auto detailing Tips, How to detailing Guides, how to polish, how to wax, DIY detailing, do it yourself guides

OH...just leave me high and dry!! You get me all excited about the Wolfgang 3.0 sealant and then say "LEAVE IT BE!"
LOL!!!

If I should choose to do exactly what you said...Wolfgang 3.0 and Pinnacle Sovereign as a topper...what process would you follow. I dont mind the extra effort! I kind of enjoy it!

 

[custmsprty]

The best advise I can give you is to read the how to's on the link above. The information their is invaluable.

 

[hawaiian]

I have a Silver Titanium 2005 Sport 4 Runner and for rhe past 2 1/2 years have been using Pinnacle Liquid Souverign Wax. It has a nice deep gloss and reflection to it. Have been getting favorable comments . I do use a dual orbit or to apply the wax using speed 3 1/2. I do keep 4 Runner garaged and use Ultima WW. Hopes this helps you.

 

[zx10r Elle]

Mr chrt396,

IMO I would leave things be as they are now until your next refresh of Soveran and take this time as a sort of 'grace period' to read up and perfect a proper wash routine as thats where most will argue much of the finish 'damage' occurs.

Stripping and starting over just means more chance of causing micro-scratches, swirls, marring and whatnot.

You enthusiasm is great but at some point we all must stop as working with the paint finish too much ends up being counter-productive. Simplify and hone your process. True enough in the past many enthusiasts applied many a 'coat' of wax however since then its become clear the quality of automotive finishes as well as the finish care has improved dramatically so thats not necessary or productive, also many did so simply as 'therapy' Kinda as you stated yourself "I kind of enjoy it!".

None of the products youve listed as using last longer then 3 months and thats with a proper delicate wash routine, so I would plan between now and then to refine your process by reading as much as you can, this all of course feeds right into the obsession so if this isnt your thing simply stop any time LOL! Asking obsessive personalities to describe an obsessive process is simply throwing fuel onto a fire. Also there are many many choices available to you and anyone detailing their own vehicle so any one process isnt always the right process for the next person.

There are many helpful guidelines though, such as: Its beneficial but not necessary to stay within one line of products, as an example; you're using Pinnacle Soveran, staying within the 'synergy' of the product line you could ( assuming paint is flaw free ) use Pinnacle Bodywork Shampoo, Pinnacle Paintwork Cleansing Lotion, then top with 2 coats of Soveran then maintain with occasional refreshes using Crystal Mist after a wash ( if needed ).

Or you could insert Wolfgang Sealant 3.0 as has been stated and top with a layer or 2 of Soveran, Wolfgang 3.0 has a much longer surface life so the paint finish will benefit from the increased protection while allowing you to use your Soveran or the others if you so choose for added depth and gloss.


Steve

 

[chrt396]

Mr chrt396,

IMO I would leave things be as they are now until your next refresh of Soveran and take this time as a sort of 'grace period' to read up and perfect a proper wash routine as thats where most will argue much of the finish 'damage' occurs.

Stripping and starting over just means more chance of causing micro-scratches, swirls, marring and whatnot.

You enthusiasm is great but at some point we all must stop as working with the paint finish too much ends up being counter-productive. Simplify and hone your process. True enough in the past many enthusiasts applied many a 'coat' of wax however since then its become clear the quality of automotive finishes as well as the finish care has improved dramatically so thats not necessary or productive, also many did so simply as 'therapy' Kinda as you stated yourself "I kind of enjoy it!".

None of the products youve listed as using last longer then 3 months and thats with a proper delicate wash routine, so I would plan between now and then to refine your process by reading as much as you can, this all of course feeds right into the obsession so if this isnt your thing simply stop any time LOL! Asking obsessive personalities to describe an obsessive process is simply throwing fuel onto a fire. Also there are many many choices available to you and anyone detailing their own vehicle so any one process isnt always the right process for the next person.

There are many helpful guidelines though, such as: Its beneficial but not necessary to stay within one line of products, as an example; you're using Pinnacle Soveran, staying within the 'synergy' of the product line you could ( assuming paint is flaw free ) use Pinnacle Bodywork Shampoo, Pinnacle Paintwork Cleansing Lotion, then top with 2 coats of Soveran then maintain with occasional refreshes using Crystal Mist after a wash ( if needed ).

Or you could insert Wolfgang Sealant 3.0 as has been stated and top with a layer or 2 of Soveran, Wolfgang 3.0 has a much longer surface life so the paint finish will benefit from the increased protection while allowing you to use your Soveran or the others if you so choose for added depth and gloss.


Steve

Thank you for understanding my illness!! I do have the fever!

I have been reading the link supplied...and I have decided to buy the Pinnacle Body Wash...and the Wolfgang 3.0 Sealant as recommended. I read some pretty stellar reviews on the combo. So....I ordered from AG and I should be receiving in a day or two. I'll take a couple week vacation from piddling with the finish..then I'll use the Pinnacle body wash, Wolfgang 3.0 sealant and Sovereign paste wax..and then just LEAVE IT ALONE!

On my last truck...I had used the Surf City Garage Nano Sealant and Glaze as well as the Carnuba to top it off..and the shine lasted for a long time. I touched it up between washes with Speed Demon detailer. What has been prescribed is the same concept...except using better products.

When I bought the new truck..I was totally out of sealants and what not..and had the Carnuba wax on hand...and so I just started to go to town..BEFORE I did research. I will reel in a bit..and will do as prescribed. Well...I was actually advised to leave it be for a while...but I'm just going to do it right...THEN leave it be!

 

[GSKR]

Hi y'all!! Being a newbie on this forum...I have a question...well...maybe a few.

New Ford F-150 in silver color with black leather interior.

I just bought the truck last week. Of course..I want it to look its best. Here is what I have done so far.

1. Applied Surf City Garage Carnuba Paste Wax
2. Followed up with Surf City Garage Speed Demon Wax Detailer.
3. Used Meguiars Gold Class Rich Leather cleaner/conditioner

Then...searched and found products on Auto Geeks

4. Applied Pinnacle Sovereign Paste wax
5. Followed up with Pinnacle Crystal Mist AND Finish Kare 425

I have been experimenting with different polishes and waxes over time and with my last truck.. ended up settling on Surf City Garage products. Then..just yesterday.. I received some products from Auto Geek. However...with a silver truck...with Ford's less than stellar paint...what is the best wax..sealant..polish..that I can use? I care somewhat about durability..but I really want a great shine that will last for 3 or 4 months. I have no problem using a spray detailer in between waxes..but what is the best product out there for a silver finish?

I also bought Pinnacles Black Label Hide-Soft Cleaner as well as the Conditioner. Is that considered one of the best products out there to protect leather?

Your feedback is surely needed!!

OH..by the way...I bought a 7" DA polisher from Sears that they had for $79 and came with a yellow and an orange sponge applicator. Apparently....I have no clue how to use it...since I splattered some liquid Surf City Garage LIQUID carnuba wax all over windshield and cowl. Is a DA even needed on a newer vehicle? I have it boxed up and ready to return! It took me longer to clean up the mess than it took to wax the entire truck! I apparently removed the buffer before it stopped spinning and presto-bingo...a big mess!!!

hands down collinite gives you the best of both worlds,durability and shine and cheap.

 

[Paul A.]

I'll agree with most here and also suggest you leave it be until those LSP's wear off. I am also in Tampa and a long time ago realized how perishable carnauba's are in our climate. I have a black car. Take that car after freshly applying a carnauba wax and drive over to the mall, movie theatre, ball game etc. As it sits in the sun try to touch your paint. Ouch! Shoot, that's hot. I remember hearing some time ago that carnauba's melt down to mush at about 165-180 degrees. That's about what my car's paint is at when i return to it. Now...drive home through one of our torrential downpours and much of that mush is washed away or at least weakened.

I strictly use sealants and will be going to a coating very soon for my daily driver.

I'm up in Citrus Park area if you ever want to get together and talk or see what i do. Been afflicted with this disease...er, passion for about 15 years.