few detailing questions

[EachIt]

Hey guys, Im getting ready to detail my black mustang. The last time I REALLY detailed it my car was still fairly new so Mequires scratch X did the trick. Its now been through hell and back and it needs a good detailing.


So! This is what I started with. I have the 3M Fine Scratch remover, the 3M Swirl Mark remover for dark cars, the mothers clay bar kit and some Mequires Gold class wax. Im thinking I should wash the car first, clay bar it, then wash it again, polish the more damaged areas using the fine scratch remover and then go over the whole car with the swirl mark remover. Then wax that bad boy.

Here are my questions.

1) I already tried applying the scratch remover by hand (foam applicator) and wiping it off using a microfiber cloth. I wasnt very happy with the results, I can still see some scratches in the finish. So what should I do to fix this? A more aggressive polish? A DAP? A different applicator pad??? I dunno.

2) Anyone have any tips for claybaring? I already figure that it should be done in a cool area. But i tried it on a small part of the car and it seemed pretty worthless. Not much at all came up. I apply the lubricant and then rub the clay bar along the paint.... I havent really noticed a difference between the spot I used it on and the spot I didnt use it on.. so maybe im doing something wrong?

 

[larrendeuce]

To get any decent scratch removal you need a buffer. If you don't have one you need a product that can hide them. If the scratch x isn't working try mothers scratch remover, I use it near door handles with good results.

The claybar removes contaminants from the paint. If you keep the quick detail spray from drying you don't need to wash the car again. Its also possible to clay while washing the car, just add a little extra soap to the mix and rinse frequently. If your not noticing any results you probably don't need to clay. Before I clayed my car the surface felt rough. While using the clay the feeling went from a sandpaper sensation to that of wiping glass. So if your not getting any drag your good to go.