Okay, Im not sure if any of you already use this method to clean your cars. If you don't Ill give you a quick run down. Many of the viper guys have been picking this up.

If you dont drive in the rain at all there is no need to wash your vehicle. Washing just puts water into places that it doesnt need to go which promotes rust and grime build up.

So the problem then becomes what to use to clean the paint surface without creating all those pesky swirl marks. If you have a black car, you feel my pain.

The solution..... swiffer pads. I use the cheapo's cause they work just as good without the name brand price. After a drive I just lightly dust off the entire car with a swiffer pad. Usually one will do the whole car unless it's down right filthy. Sometimes I will go behind with a spray detailer and micro cloth however, this is how we rub most of our wax off, so go light and seldom.

I am not here to change anyones mind on brands of wax or types. I for one use TurboWax and Pig Snot. Pig Snot is a bike wax which is very durable to the elements. Between full waxes I use TurboWax spray and wax very lightly.

Caranuba wax is great, but like most quality waxes over a short time they wear off. Meguires is great for a base. Dont be fooled. You can only apply so much wax before you are just wasting your time. 15 coats or 3/4 end up to be about the same thickness on top of the clear coat. Even 3/4 coats are excessive unless you've stripped it all with dish soap or a water wash.

Hope these little tips help out. Grab a box of generic swiffer pads and throw em in the trunk for the next show. I've always got a box in the back.

Viper_One

Well, wish I'd known before i bought a California duster, sounds like the same trick, less bucks! Know what u mean bout these fast black painted cars, I've been using the Turtlewax Ice myself, no shadow, no swirls, wish they'd made that stuff back in the 90s, the last time I owned a black car, never could find a wax back then, wasn't a royal PITA to use!

Ice is good for a quick shine but not so great as a protective wax. I use it now and then.

A California duster is great, but it is only good for a limited time as well. They get full of dirt and just end up adding smears to the finish. I learned that the hard way. :eek:

Viper_One

So the problem then becomes what to use to clean the paint surface without creating all those pesky swirl marks. If you have a black car, you feel my pain.


So are you monitoring for micro scratches by using this method? Granted it should be fine for an occasional quick shine, but I would not do it on a regular basis for fear of introducing very fine swirl.

It is impossible to eliminate the introduction of swirl marks completely. Which would you rather have: Extremely fine ones or Larger obvious ones? Any decent wax will fill very fine swirls.

The swiffer and even the generic brands do not have any chemicals added to the pad. The fibers gather and hold the dirt, dust, and small particles with very little pressure. Using too much detailer spray on a micro rag actualy promotes swirl marks as you work because you are stripping the wax.

I have noticed a huuuuuge difference since using the swiffer pads as opposed to the micro rag and detail spray.

I haven't washed my car in about 6 months. Granted it also never sees the rain.

Viper_One

I have noticed a huuuuuge difference since using the swiffer pads as opposed to the micro rag and detail spray.

Viper_One

Yep, I would agree with that. I recently went to a two wash bucket method and then using a leaf blower and MF drying cloths. Very good results.
I don't drive my Challenger in the rain and with the rear splash guards, an occasional puddle is not as big of a deal. Now the SRT brake dust, sheesh that is a whole other story. Most of my washes are really to get the brake dust off and the bug splats on the front. Can't wait for my pads to wear out to switch to Ceramics. (Since I am cheap and won't switch em out before hand...)

Ceramics have a lot less brake dust. Ive got em on my car however, I am going to change to Hawk HPplus pads for added performance. Seriously I suggest trying a swiffer pad, after your next drive, on the rear lower quarter pannel. You will be surprised at how well they do without stripping wax.

I hated washing. Mainly because of the water spots. Living in the south you know what a pain those are. I never can get the car dry fast enough. Since I went to the no wash method, I substitute a clay bar for the wash.

Viper_One

FYI, the small swiffer dusters are awesome on the interior.

I'll have to try the swiffer. Good idea. I have a lot of swirl marks.



Joe

Zaino number 5 works well for me eliminating swirls on our black Challenger and I will use it on the DWB Charger also.

http://www.zainostore.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=Z-5&Category_Code=Zaino&Product_Count=8

Thanks Mike! I'll check it out



Joe

Very informative. I will have to try This since I hate washing my car.

I have been using a california duster and then got the bird droppings removal sheets for those dirty birds. (watching my language so as not to offend anyone again).
I do use a swifter inside as it is a pain to reach.

I have a wash/wax no dry kit in the trunk of my car and I can't even remember the name of it now. But I plan on trying it out Saturday if it's not raining. I also got a free california duster when I ordered my car cover.

My swifters now are the lavender scented ones so I will get a regular one and try it out.

Check back and let me know how the method works for ya.

Viper_One