My Rover given a deep clean

[MrBitsy]

I thought car washing was done with a sponge, shampoo then polished :shock: I bought a Rover 75, joined this forum, then saw a post pointing to CleanYourCar - this is the result after three weeks.

All products were purchased through CleanYourCar or Halfords.

Meguiars
----------
Gold class shampoo
Quick detailer
Ultimate quick detailer
#16 paste wax
#21 sealant
ScratchX
DC#2 polish
Metal Polysh
Gold class trim detailer
Wash mit

I havn't got a polisher, so these results are by hand. Actually, I was amazed how well swirls were masked by these products. The pictures were taken late in the day after 8 hours of washing and polishing by hand - my shoulders blooming hurt :D

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail1.jpg
http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail2.jpg
http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail3.jpg
http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail4.jpg
http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail5.jpg
http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail6.jpg

:D

Ray

[stocktake]

See picture four on crimewatch UK later this week! :):D

top quality reflection from car. Looks like plenty of elbow grease used there.

[kevin]

I knew should have got the red one i was looking at.

as you live near to me can i being my light blue tourer rould for you to clean.:)

Lovely looking car well done.

[The Pez]

Fantastic! and now you must do it all again!
I did mine 6 times in about a fortnight, and the results are amazing!

Mind you, its a great help with such a nice colour, i doubt you would achieve anything like them results with a lesser colour i.e Silver.......

:D Oh here we go, tin hats on!

[Tom Collins]

It does look fantastic, and is a credit to all your hard work.

Even after reading all about how we should clean our cars. I still use a sponge and one bucket. The same sponge does the paint and wheels.
Yes my car has some swirl marks, but to be honest, when washed, it still looks beautiful.
Lifes too short to worry about the swirls, maybe if it was garaged and only used as a second car then I may take more care, but it's my everyday, left outside, child trampled transport that gets washed once a month if it's lucky.
I do love it though, honest.

[JohnDotCom]

Mind you, its a great help with such a nice colour, i doubt you would achieve anything like them results with a lesser colour i.e Silver.......

:D Oh here we go, tin hats on!

I think Comments like that are only allowed when you have subscribed and Paid your £3! :D :getmecoat:

[Tom Collins]

Mind you, its a great help with such a nice colour, i doubt you would achieve anything like them results with a lesser colour i.e Silver.......

Well JDC, somebody had to do it. :D

[Greeners]

It does look fantastic, and is a credit to all your hard work.

Even after reading all about how we should clean our cars. I still use a sponge and one bucket. The same sponge does the paint and wheels.
Yes my car has some swirl marks, but to be honest, when washed, it still looks beautiful.
Lifes too short to worry about the swirls, maybe if it was garaged and only used as a second car then I may take more care, but it's my everyday, left outside, child trampled transport that gets washed once a month if it's lucky.
I do love it though, honest.

I used to be like that, but I now use a second bucket and a wash mit. The difference is unbeliveable. Wash one panel at a time then rinse the mit out in the clean bucket.

When you've finished, the clean bucket will be almost black. Using one bucket, this is the dirt you keep putting back on the car.

[MrBitsy]

I knew should have got the red one i was looking at.

as you live near to me can i being my light blue tourer rould for you to clean.:)

Lovely looking car well done.

Clean your car too - my shoulders will need a while to relax - about a year :D

[Tom Collins]

Using one bucket, this is the dirt you keep putting back on the car.

I know, but it's my dirt, and I'm loathe to part with it. :lol:

[JohnDotCom]

There is nothing wrong with liking Dirty things Tom! :D

[rapid6]

I think Comments like that are only allowed when you have subscribed and Paid your £3! :D :getmecoat:

Pop round to mine MrBitsy at the weekend, and if you can put a shine like that on my car.....Consider your subs paid!!!!!:drool4:

[tourerfogey]

You do realise that the local squadron of seaguls are performimg their pre-take off checks and planning their bombing strategy at this very moment, don't you ;)

Seriously though, folks, when you go to these lengths to clean a car presumably the finish is longer lasting than a normal wash and polish? Has anyone found this to be so in the good ol' British climate?

[rapid6]

Funny you should say that TF, I washed the car the other day, and then gave the bonnet, wings and nose a serious waxing.(time constraints and all that) Now a few days later, the front end is noticeably cleaner looking than its tail...:dung:

[MrBitsy]

You do realise that the local squadron of seaguls are performimg their pre-take off checks and planning their bombing strategy at this very moment, don't you ;)

Seriously though, folks, when you go to these lengths to clean a car presumably the finish is longer lasting than a normal wash and polish? Has anyone found this to be so in the good ol' British climate?

Once the first big clay, clean, polish, seal and wax has been done, you settle into a normal routine. Wash weekly, followed by a detail spray (spray on, wipe off) to bring back the just waxed look. Every few months, polish and wax the car. couple of time a year, clay the car - doesn't take long to do.

If you have never clayed the car, you will be amazed how much easyer it is to polish and wax a car. Claying the car gives a glass smooth surface, so washing and polishing requires far less effort.

If you car is garaged, the sealant/wax should last a few months, a bit less if the car is left outside.

[tourerfogey]

Right - all I need do now is find the time......

[rapid6]

Right - all I need do now is find the time......




Have you tried Ebay..................he he he

[MrBitsy]

Pop round to mine MrBitsy at the weekend, and if you can put a shine like that on my car.....Consider your subs paid!!!!!:drool4:


Blimey - your car looks very nice now :drool4:

I took the pictures as it was getting dark, so I didn't take any whole car shots - will do when this rain stops :shrug: My Sig below shows the car before the big clean *no it doesn't - updated the sig now!

[rapid6]

Blimey - your car looks very nice now :drool4:

I took the pictures as it was getting dark, so I didn't take any whole car shots - will do when this rain stops :shrug: My Sig below shows the car before the big clean.


BEFORE

Crikey, i thought that was after, looks nice

[rapid6]

Blimey - your car looks very nice now :drool4:

I took the pictures as it was getting dark, so I didn't take any whole car shots - will do when this rain stops :shrug: My Sig below shows the car before the big clean.


Thanks for the compliment, it takes a very special colour to look this good.....
Quickly runs for cover:laughing2::laughing2:

[ragitty]

It does look fantastic, and is a credit to all your hard work.

Even after reading all about how we should clean our cars. I still use a sponge and one bucket. The same sponge does the paint and wheels.
Yes my car has some swirl marks, but to be honest, when washed, it still looks beautiful.
Lifes too short to worry about the swirls, maybe if it was garaged and only used as a second car then I may take more care, but it's my everyday, left outside, child trampled transport that gets washed once a month if it's lucky.
I do love it though, honest.

Same here tom except I let the croations on uppingham road do mine;)

[ragitty]

I thought car washing was done with a sponge, shampoo then polished :shock: I bought a Rover 75, joined this forum, then saw a post pointing to CleanYourCar - this is the result after three weeks.

All products were purchased through CleanYourCar or Halfords.

Meguiars
----------
Gold class shampoo
Quick detailer
Ultimate quick detailer
#16 paste wax
#21 sealant
ScratchX
DC#2 polish
Metal Polysh
Gold class trim detailer
Wash mit

I havn't got a polisher, so these results are by hand. Actually, I was amazed how well swirls were masked by these products. The pictures were taken late in the day after 8 hours of washing and polishing by hand - my shoulders blooming hurt :D


:D

Ray

Seriously Ray just how long did it take you to get your car looking that good

Opps just read 8 hours, geezeeeeeeeeeeee just don't get that sort of free time, but it does look beautiful

[MrBitsy]

Seriously Ray just how long did it take you to get your car looking that good

Opps just read 8 hours, geezeeeeeeeeeeee just don't get that sort of free time, but it does look beautiful

No, not 8 hours - that was today. a few days ago I spent another 8 hours on it :D It only took that long because I wanted to minimise the swirls, so each panel on the car was done 8 times :cool:

Now it is done though, the paint should be protected over the winter, with just a weekly wash and a 'spray on wipe off' spray to keep it looking just waxed. Even next summer, I won't need this much effort on it. If I had a polisher then it would've taken a lot less time.

[ragitty]

Thanks for your reply Ray, who knows! we break up for christmas on the 17th of dec so I may just have a go, and as you say it is ready for the winter, your car looks awesome young sir:drool4:

[Greeners]

I've just notice where you are.......might have to pop over and look at it in the flesh...

[empsburna]

nice results.

non of those products would ever be my choice by hand, but they seem to have filled them very well.

Kudos to you for the effort.

[MrBitsy]

nice results.

non of those products would ever be my choice by hand, but they seem to have filled them very well.

Kudos to you for the effort.

Thanks.

I have been an Autoglym man for many years, but the Meguiars range is far better IMHO. One thing I like about the Meguiars range is no white residue when polishing - no white residue in the nooks and crannies.

[trebor]

I have just bought an ultimate detailing machine but because of the weather only done half a bonnet so far - when done will post pictures - please pray for some dry weather for me !

[Tom Collins]

I have just bought an ultimate detailing machine

It's not Mr Miyagi from Karate Kid is it?


Wax on. Wax off :pillow:

[kevin]

off work for 4 days will have have to see what my car cleans up like if it stops raining

[JohnDotCom]

Right I'm going to ask,
cause eyes stewpid.
What is an Utimate Detailing Machine?

[GreyGhost]

Right I'm going to ask,
cause eyes stewpid.
What is an Utimate Detailing Machine?

Do a Google for "Ultimate Detailing Machine" Seems like every car forum has good things to say about them

[JohnDotCom]

Ah, A luxury polishing Gizmo.

[MrBitsy]

I have just bought an ultimate detailing machine but because of the weather only done half a bonnet so far - when done will post pictures - please pray for some dry weather for me !


I have been looking at one of those. There is a UK spec one being released next year. Mind you, I don't suppose there is much hassle having a transformer.

[wicksy_64]

No need for a transformer with this baby, which seems to be the one to buy. Perhaps Empsburna can give a bit of advice on this one.
http://www.cleanyourcar.co.uk/polish.../prod_409.html

[Dave***t]

Yeah I just stumbled on the Meguiars machine. Seems it'd most likely be much of a muchness with the PC, and with Christmas coming up...

Any thoughts, Emps or anyone with machine experience?

[empsburna]

I have been looking at one of those. There is a UK spec one being released next year. Mind you, I don't suppose there is much hassle having a transformer.

With a long enough extension lead you won't know it is there.

I have just bought an ultimate detailing machine but because of the weather only done half a bonnet so far - when done will post pictures - please pray for some dry weather for me !

Come on! ;)

No need for a transformer with this baby, which seems to be the one to buy. Perhaps Empsburna can give a bit of advice on this one.
http://www.cleanyourcar.co.uk/polish.../prod_409.html

Yeah I just stumbled on the Meguiars machine. Seems it'd most likely be much of a muchness with the PC, and with Christmas coming up...

Any thoughts, Emps or anyone with machine experience?

That Meguiars Dual Action Polisher looks ok at first glance, but I can't see, nor does it say that it has variable speed control.

Liking the look of the Megs machine. Seems user friendly enough.

After having some time with trebor's UDM I think this will be the way forward, Light, sturdy, all the cutting power of the PC but £100 less.

It is as easy to use as a Porter Cable (AKA PC), does all the same things, plus there will be a UK version hopefully soon.

If you can't hold out, then an American UDM with a transformer will be great. Depending on where you get it from you can get the machine, transformer, extension, pads, some polish and a few cloths for around £200.

I will be happy to answer any specific questions, just fire away!

[Tatts]

Emps, do you know if it has variable speed?

[empsburna]

Emps, do you know if it has variable speed?
Sorry, yes, it is variable speed.

pretty much the same as the PC but with a nice carry case and a better handle!

[Dave***t]

Ah, I'd wandered off and ended up considering the UDM/transformer from The Polishing Company (you know the way it happens, you start paying vague attention to something and suddenly it's an hour later and you've spent loads of money one one with all the trimmings!).

But if the Meguiars one is virtually the same as a PC and a proper UK version it definately sounds good.

[empsburna]

The Megs/UDM/PC machines are all virtually the same.

Although there are some slight weight differences between them, most people wouldn't know the difference unless they have tried them!

[wicksy_64]

The thing I dont understand is the different types and colours of the various pads. Bit of advice on this please Emps.

[Tatts]

There's a 'bit' of reading on here, which might answer a few questions!

http://www.detailingworld.co.uk/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=17

[empsburna]

The thing I dont understand is the different types and colours of the various pads. Bit of advice on this please Emps.
Different manufacturers colour pads slightly differently, and some are better than others for the job! I've got a mix of megs, Lake Country and 3M pads, and have to write on the back of them to remember which ones are which!

There are a number out there,

going from really abrasive cutting pads - then to light cut, polishing pads - then to finishing pads.

examples;

cutting - Lake Country Yellow - REALLY HARSH - should only be used in extreme cases
polishing - Sonus DAS Green - Polishing - Safe for most jobs and minor swirls
finishing - Sonus Black - Finishing - for application of sealant/liquid wax - no cutting power at all.

I'm a firm believer in using the lightest polish/pad combination to get the job done. Always work with the lightest cut possible to get the desired results. The longer you have been doing it the quicker you can make choices - you can always step up the pad/polish to one with more cut - if you steam straight in with a heavy polish on a harch cutting pad you will have less to work with in the future.

I always try to give the best level of correction for the least amount of clearcoat.

People who go take the car into a bodyshop for a polish with an old wollen mop and some 3M/Farcella won't have as much correction available to them in future because most of the clearcoat will have been removed.

Bit rushed - but does that make sense?

[MrBitsy]

I got some better pictures today as the light was better.

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-32.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-11.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-13.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-14.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-16.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-17.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-18.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-19.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-20.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-21.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-22.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-23.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-24.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-25.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-26.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-27.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-28.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-29.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-30.jpg

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail-31.jpg

[Tom Collins]

I really don't think I have ever seen a car as shiny as that before. Incredible. Well done.

By the way, I see you have a Carcraft sticker in the back window. Did you find them as useless, uncooperative, timewasting and generally incompetant as I did?
Which one did you buy it from.
"Carcraft, we make it nice and easy", don't make me laugh.

[tigerchubs]

Car looks fantastic, however if I had one critisism it would be the dirty great carcraft sticker. It may be a personal thing but I cant stand dealer stickers in rear windows.

[tigerchubs]

The one in sheffield is known as Carcrap

[Tom Collins]

The one in sheffield is known as Carcrap

Yes, that's the one I got mine from, absolutely terrible buying experience.
And let me tell you, the one in Newport is no better.

[MrBitsy]

I really don't think I have ever seen a car as shiny as that before. Incredible. Well done.

Thanks :)

By the way, I see you have a Carcraft sticker in the back window. Did you find them as useless, uncooperative, timewasting and generally incompetant as I did?
Which one did you buy it from.
"Carcraft, we make it nice and easy", don't make me laugh.

Enfield, north London. I was in there a long time. I took a Volvo for a test drive, and had to point out to them the engine management light was on :mad: Didn't feel me with confidence, but then I saw the Rover :drool4:

[tigerchubs]

Tatts you need a hobby?

[Tom Collins]

Tatts, I like your style, must try that next time I see one of their Centers Of Mugging Excellence.

[MrBitsy]

It would appear so!

Must admit, red cars look damned fine when polished! Credit to Ray for his hard work!

Thanks! :lol:


I cheat when I do mine, couple of power tools come in handy!

I will be getting one of those 'ultimate detailing machines' when released - can I wait for it though, or will I end up buying one now with a transformer? :rolleyes:

[ragitty]

Thanks! :lol:



I will be getting one of those 'ultimate detailing machines' when released - can I wait for it though, or will I end up buying one now with a transformer? :rolleyes:

Ray your car looks fantastic, but after all your hard word I did see one thing out of place..........:eek::eek::eek::eek:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
A droplet of water on the rear screen:laughing2::laughing2::laughing2:

[apywell]

WOW.... I always knew that the paintwork on these cars was good but the time you spent on your vehicle makes it look second to none. Makes me want to get out and do mine.

nice work!!

[Dave***t]

I will be getting one of those 'ultimate detailing machines' when released - can I wait for it though, or will I end up buying one now with a transformer? :rolleyes:


Seems more likely the (apparently virtually identical) Meguiars machine will be available first (start of December) as a proper UK version, and although it's more expensive than the projected price of the UDM, it's cheaper than buying an imported model. It's certainly making my wallet groan in anticipation ;)

[apywell]

Just had another thought on this subject....................

It's sad but I'm not so sure I could get me car as gleeming as this one, as I'm sure someone would take a key or nail to it......

some people are like that:getmecoat:

[Graham1961]

That Looks Fantastic Looks Like Firefrost Red Which Is The Same Colour As Mine . It Is A Lovely Colour To Polish As Pictures Show. I Do Car Valeting And You Have Got Your Car Gleaming.

[MrBitsy]

Fantastic! and now you must do it all again!
I did mine 6 times in about a fortnight, and the results are amazing!

By hand? :cool:

If I were to do it another 6 times, I wouldn't be able to move my arms for a month, and as a signaller that could be embarrasing :D Your car must be like a mirror!

[MrBitsy]

Right - all I need do now is find the time......


Two biggest tips to make cleaning the car easier and quicker.

1.. Clay the car twice a year 1-2 hrs.
2.. Buy a detailing spray - After waxing, use a detailing spray after each wash, to keep that just waxed look. Takes 10 mins for the whole car. I use ...

http://www.cleanyourcar.co.uk/detailing-sprays/meguiars-ultimate-quik-detailer/prod_361.html

[MrBitsy]

I've just notice where you are.......might have to pop over and look at it in the flesh...

Your welcome to :)

[Simon]

Damn that's a fine shiny car... :drool4:

I do like a shiny car but you have just put my efforts to shame.... :(

http://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/forum/imagehosting/2744638e146a5c3a.jpg

[JP53]

I thought car washing was done with a sponge, shampoo then polished :shock: I bought a Rover 75, joined this forum, then saw a post pointing to CleanYourCar - this is the result after three weeks.

All products were purchased through CleanYourCar or Halfords.

Meguiars
----------
Gold class shampoo
Quick detailer
Ultimate quick detailer
#16 paste wax
#21 sealant
ScratchX
DC#2 polish
Metal Polysh
Gold class trim detailer
Wash mit

I havn't got a polisher, so these results are by hand. Actually, I was amazed how well swirls were masked by these products. The pictures were taken late in the day after 8 hours of washing and polishing by hand - my shoulders blooming hurt :D

http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail1.jpg
http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail2.jpg
http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail3.jpg
http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail4.jpg
http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail5.jpg
http://www.gardenforwildlife.com/assets/images/Car/detail6.jpg

:D

Ray

Thats not a polish, I reckon it's a top price, top quality respray. You cheated! ;) :D

[Keith]

There you go!
Nice shiny car makes first post in a nice shiny new forum

[JP53]

Damn that's a fine shiny car... :drool4:

I do like a shiny car but you have just put my efforts to shame.... :(

http://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/forum/imagehosting/2744638e146a5c3a.jpg

LOOK another one here! Resprays are us must be doing a roaring trade!!!! :D

[Simon]

There you go!
Nice shiny car makes first post in a nice shiny new forum

Blimey! When did that happen! :confused:

That was a bit of quick thread-moving, forum-creating, post-writing geniusnessness..... :pillow: :D

[Simon]

LOOK another one here! Resprays are us must be doing a roaring trade!!!! :D

That was a few hours of hard graft I'll have you know! :pillow: And not a spray-gun in sight! :p: :D

[GreyGhost]

Blimey! When did that happen! :confused:

That was a bit of quick thread-moving, forum-creating, post-writing geniusnessness..... :pillow: :D

You can thank Christopher for setting up the forum and the rest of the team for agreeing it was worthwhile.

[Simon]

Well, thanks to Christopher and the rest of the team then! :lol: :hurray:

[wicksy_64]

Thanks Christopher et al. This is sure to be a popular addition.

[JohnDotCom]

Couldn't have you lot with your Wollen Wash mittens on,
having no where to post after you Drop all your suds and Polishing Machines. :D :grouphug:

[JP53]

Couldn't have you lot with your Wollen Wash mittens on,
having no where to post after you Drop all your suds and Polishing Machines. :D :grouphug:

I reckon this should be THE CRAFTY RESPRAY forum. :D

[MrBitsy]

Damn that's a fine shiny car... :drool4:

I do like a shiny car but you have just put my efforts to shame.... :(

http://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/forum/imagehosting/2744638e146a5c3a.jpg


Your kidding - the shine on your car has a lovely 'warmth' & 'glow' about it, as well as being highly reflective :) I have been trying to achieve a shine like yours for weeks, as I didn't want just a reflective surface - well done :clap:

[Greeners]

Ray

Is there any chance you could post up the method you used and the products in the order they were applied ?

[MrBitsy]

Ray

Is there any chance you could post up the method you used and the products in the order they were applied ?

Sure :D

I tried various products and settled on Meguiars. None of their products leave any residue and each one gives great results.

First the car is washed using the two bucket system. One bucket contains 'Gold Class' shampoo, and the other clean water. A 'Mit' is used so that any dirt and grit is drawn up into the fibers while washing. The 'mit' is rinsed often in the clean water. The car is rinsed and dried using a 'Sonus Der Wunder Towel' instead of a chamois. The towel will dry the whole car and not need to be wrung out!

The car is then 'Clayed' using a lube and clay bar. This step removes contaminates bonded to the paint surface. When complete, the paint will be glass smooth and already more glossy. After this step, the car was washed and dried again.

Now is the time to polish to remove scratches, swirls and oxidisation. I used a three step process to polish - the better the job at this stage, the better the shine and gloss at the end.

Each panel on the car was treated twice with ScratchX, in an attempt to reduce surface 'swirls' and light scratches. After this, each panel was treated twice with 'Deep Crystal Paint Cleaner'. This is a finer grade cleaner than 'ScratchX'. The final pass used 'Deep Crystal Polish' the finest grade polish. Each panel was done three times to really smooth out the surface and make the paint reflective and glossy.

Now is the time to protect the finish. As I had not used a polisher, I chose a product that contained 'fillers' to mask any remaining light scratching and swirls. I used #21 sealant for this task.

At this point, the car has a very reflective finish, but with no 'warmth' or 'glow', so I applied two coats of #16 paste wax. After the wax had cured (24 hours) I applied a layer of 'Ultimate Quick Detailer' (UQD) for a fantastic extra deep shine.

The car is now finished with just regular maintenance to keep it clean. After washing, or when the paint is a little dull, a spray and wipe of Ultimate Quick Detailer really does make the car look like it has just been waxed (15 minutes for whole car).

A lot of work, but now I can enter maintenance mode. :D

Weekly wash and UQD
Quarterly polish and wax.
Six monthly clay
Yearly full deep clean.

[Greeners]

Thanks Ray

Whilst I was in Canada earlier this year, I picked up a washmit and a couple of Simoniz drying towels.

I'm already a 2 bucket boy, so it's the next stage I'm after. I can see a few more bits going on the christmas pressie list.....

[mattthetourer]

No Pics I am afraid but I use the Meguiars 3 step system and can vouch for it.Certainly the best products I have found.(have a basic rotary polisher that takes a lot of the effort out of the process)

[JP53]

Although I mostly use Auto Glym, I've found Meguiars products to be first rate.

[empsburna]

The car is rinsed and dried using a 'Sonus Der Wunder Towel' instead of a chamois. The towel will dry the whole car and not need to be wrung out!

IMHO I wouldn't bother drying the car if you are going straight onto the clay - Just an added step!