How to Strip Old Wax and Sealant

Do you find yourself asking how do I strip old waxes and sealants to prepare for polishing? Or maybe you are wondering how to prep the surface for clear bra application? or for vinyl wrap application? Well we have the answer. Introducing the new Chemical Guys Clean Slate Surface Cleanser Wash.

Clean Slate Surface Cleanser Wash is formulated to strip away old waxes and sealants from exterior paint. Wash with Clean Slate before polishing to avoid wax residue buildup on polishing pads. Remove leftover coatings with Clean Slate to make clay bar decontamination services faster and easier. Use Clean Slate after polishing to remove oils and residues before applying vehicle coatings, clear bra wraps, vinyl wraps, decals, or protective wax. Clean Slate provides maximum lubrication to avoid installing any swirls or scratches while washing any vehicle. Clean Slate is pH-balanced, non-caustic, and will not dry out any plastic, rubber, or vinyl surfaces found on bumpers and mirrors. Clean and prepare the surface of your vehicle for a fresh layer of wax and sealant, or wraps and decals. Wash away old detailing jobs and start fresh with Chemical Guys Clean Slate Surface Cleanser Wash.

How to Best Clean Headlights

We all have done it, we have searched vigorously online for a solution to bring back our yellowing headlights. In our search we have found different answers ranging from household products to 'quick fix' products. Some of us have tried it with immediate but never lasting results and others have given up. In this recent video we showcase the products you need and the correct method and steps necessary to not only achieve like-new crystal clear headlights but also headlights that remain that way. Watch the video below to see all the great tips, and steps to fix your headlights for good.

Wheel Wednesday: How to Protect Wheels from Brake Dust

It always happens, you finish detailing your car and just a few days later you find yourself seeing the heavy brake dust collecting on your wheels. There are some vehicles that are known to have heavier brake dust problems, but the reality is that mostly all cars have the same issue. It becomes a daunting task to have to rigorously scrub away at your wheels during your weekly or bi-weekly washes. But little did you know there is a way to make wheel cleaning an easier task. Follow the steps below to clean and protect your wheels from brake dust and dirt buildup – and ultimately make wheel cleaning an easier task.

Step 1: Soak the Entire Surface of your Wheel/Rim with a Wheel Cleaner

In this step you can use either Chemical Guys Diablo Wheel Gel or Signature Series Wheel Cleaner. Now, keep in mind that with Diablo Wheel Gel you have to dilute the product in a separate bottle first. To clean the wheels you can use a wheel brush to scrub in between spokes and to get tough dirt, debris and brake dust away from the wheel.

Step 2: Use a sharp stream of water to rinse wheels/rims

Make sure to use a flow of water to remove left behind debris and dirt for a clean finish.

Step 3: Use a microfiber towel to dry the surface of the wheel/rim

Prior to applying a wax coating onto your wheels and rims you want to make sure they are dry and free from any leftover debris or dust. So we recommend to give a wipe down to ensure a clean finish.

Step 4: Using an applicator, apply Chemical Guys Max Coat Wheel Guardto your wheels and allow to haze

Using your choice of applicator sponge or microfiber cloth apply Chemical Guys Wheel Guard Max coat liberally to the surface. Max Coat Wheel Guard is combines a wax formula with sealant technology to protect your wheels for a longer period of time. Using Max Coat Wheel Guard you will reduce brake dust by up to 75%. Don’t worry, Max Coat is safe for all gloss wheel types, including chrome, painted, aluminum, powder coated, stainless steel, and even gold finishes. (If you want to learn about this product visit the Chemical Guys site.) You want to ensure that you allow Max Coat Wheel Guard to sit on the wheel until you see the product haze.

Step 5: Buff off Max Coat Wheel Guard with clean microfiber cloth

After you see the product hazing on the surface use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe away excess product and buff to a nice shine.

Step 6: For superior results, or if desired, you can apply two coats of Max Coat Wheel Guard

How To Detail A Silver Car - Ferrari 575M Maranello Detail - Chemical Guys

Want to know how to detail a silver car? Watch as the team performs a full exterior detail on this Ferrari 575. Starting with a complete foam wash, then moving on to paint correction using the TORQ10FX. All the way to applying a sealant to protect the exterior as well as protect all of the hard work you put in.


Have you ever wondered how to test if your paint is soft or hard? If you haven't asked yourself before, you should. Soft and hard paint react differently to polishes and paint correction. So in this detailed video the Chemical Guys team shows you how to create a test spot for polishing to ensure that you achieve the best results for your paint type.


Along with polishing and paint correction tips, this Ferrari detail video also answers your common question of 'how can I hide minor swirls and scratches' in metallic paint finishes. Utilizing Chemical Guys Glossworkz Glaze the team shows you how to properly apply and create a great sparkly finish on your metallic paint finish.


With so many tips, tricks and fun this is a video that is a must watch!

How to Protect Car Trim - Chemical Guys

Find yourself asking 'how do I protect my car trim?' or 'How do I make my plastic trim black again?' well in this video, the team at Chemical Guys shows you the answer to your questions. Nick takes this rare Laguna Seca Blue e46 BMW M3 and restores and protects the trim and gives you the right tips to keep it looking that way!

How To Wash Microfiber Towels 

Properly caring for microfiber towels is an important step to maintaining a scratch-free shine on any vehicle. Washing and drying microfiber towels properly ensures towels last longer, stay softer, and produce better results when detailing. Washing your towels incorrectly can ruin your towel collection and lead to poor results when detailing. The following is a complete guide on how to properly wash and dry your microfiber towels. If you follow these steps, your microfiber towels will stay soft and last longer.

Step 1: Separate Your Towels

In the world of microfiber, there are many different types of towels for everything from interior detailing and drying, to wheels and engine bays. All these different towels encounter unique types of dirt and contamination when working around the vehicle. Microfiber towels that are used for cleaning wheels are going to be dirtier than towels used to clean windows. Before washing your microfiber, it is good practice to separate your towels into specific groups such as interior, windows, wheels, exterior, engine bays, etc. Washing your towels in separate groups reduces the change of cross-contamination during the washing process. If you wash your waxing towels and your window cleaning towels in the same load, wax residue can become embedded in the window towels and can cause streaks when cleaning glass. To ensure microfiber is washed properly, separate towels before washing.

 

Step 2: Use Proper Microfiber Wash

Choosing the correct microfiber wash solution is important to maintaining the condition of your microfiber. Using generic laundry detergent can reduce the life and performance of microfiber towels. We recommend only using a microfiber specific washing solution, such as Chemical Guys Microfiber Wash, to achieve the best results when washing your towels and microfiber goods. Microfiber Wash is designed to safely remove dirt and contamination from your microfiber without harming the material. Using generic laundry detergent can make microfiber feel stiff and rough. Chemical Guys Microfiber Wash is designed to make microfibers feel soft and plush for improved performance. DO NOT USE FABRIC SOFTENER! Fabric softener clogs the fiber material and reduces microfiber performance. Fabric softener blocks liquids from being absorbed by the microfiber material. Always use a microfiber specific wash solution for best results.

 

Step 3: Choose The Correct Wash Settings

Now it’s time to wash the microfiber. Place all your microfiber goods in the washing machine. Select “Hot” for the water temperature. Washing microfiber with hot water opens the fibers to release dirt and contamination. For the speed speeding, select “regular” to properly clean the dirt out of the microfiber goods. Add 1 oz. to 4 oz. (depending on load size) of Microfiber Wash to the machine. Press start and allow the machine to do the work.

 

 

 

 

Step 4: Drying The Microfiber

Now that the towels are washed, it is time to dry the microfiber. Machine drying is recommended to ensure the towels are clean, fluffy, and ready to detail. Place all your microfiber goods in the dryer, and set the temperature to “low”. Do not dry microfiber goods on high heat. Using high heat on microfiber can fry the polyester in the microfiber, causing the towel to feel stiff and hard. Towels that are dried on high heat can lead to scratches and swirls when used on paintwork. Dry microfiber goods on low heat for the best results.

Step 5: Fold & Storing Microfiber Goods

Once the towels are dry, properly fold and store the microfiber goods for the next detailing job. Microfiber goods can easily hold dirt and dust. To ensure microfiber towels stay clean, store the towels in a clean cabinet or container. Storing the towels properly can ensure that no dirt, dust, or debris lands on your towels and you can achieve better results when detailing any vehicle.

Now you know the proper steps to care for your microfiber goods. Proper washing and maintenance of your microfiber goods will keep your towels and applicators lasting for years. Knowing how to care for your microfiber goods will produce better results on any detailing job!

 Check Out Chemical Guys Microfiber Wash:
 

 

Chemical Guys Microfiber Wash

DIY Polishing Auto Detailing Hands-On Training

Todays Hands-On DIY Polishing class started off to an amazing start with yet another sold out class. It's going to be awesome.  Be sure to check out the leading hands-on Detailing Training University.

We also have 1 opeing for this months Masters Training Course so be sure to contact us asap if you would like to take part in this amazing class.

With students from all over the world attending, SDU classes have something for everyone. Be sure to check out the entire lineup of amazing SDU classes available as well as our Chemical Guys Master Training Class

Info@SmartDetailingUniversity.com
877-738-1010
310-695-7237
877-SDU-1010

Ford Mustang DIY Care Car Training & DIY

This mornings Ford Mustang Day has an amazing turn out so far. Car enthusiasts and fun seekers alike all came out for todays Chemical Guys DIY DO IT YOURSELF DETAILING DAY.... It's going to be a lot of fun.... Looking forward to a day filled with great friends and great times.

Weekend car care an detailing fun at Chemical Guys

We opened today up to employees and fiends to come down and have some fun learning about car care and having a great time .. Great turn out so far and a good time for everyone. Hope everyone is having a great weekend. Our Chemical Guys Showroom and detailing arena is open till 4pm today for everyone coming down .

When perfection is desired, real products are required. Lightning Fast Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner Review by Viiny of Detailed by Vinny

So a few weeks ago I was sitting at my desk when a call comes in. It was an older gentleman who had been saving up for a while to buy his dream car, a 2006 Audi A8L. He was incredibly excited to have finally purchased the car, but there was one problem; the previous owner had trashed the once perfect cosmetic condition of the vehicle. The new owner felt that the interior could never be what he considered perfect, but he wanted it to look “as good as possible”. I don’t know about you, but in the detailing world whenever I hear someone say it will never be perfect, the first think that comes to my mind is “challenge accepted”.

He went on to describe the damage to the interior of the vehicle. He also said that he had just purchased new floor mats so I wouldn’t have to worry about detailing those. I asked him if the mats had been shipped yet and when he said no, I instantly replied, “Cancel the order”. He insisted that I didn’t understand the severity of the damage to the mats. I tried to be polite and told him that he didn’t understand what it meant to have a true detail performed. When perfection is desired, real products are required.

This is where Chemical Guys comes into play. Their vast line of tools and products opens up a whole new playing field in the detailing world. They have shot past the lower end “cover-up” products and have released what I believe to be the best and most efficient line of true correctional products. For this task I knew I was going to have to use their heavy hitting stain-fighting shampoo known as Lightning Fast.

And so it was, we scheduled the detail for that following week. I knew I was going to be in for a challenge, but with the CG product line backing me I know I am always in good hands. After the inspection, I got started right away knowing it was going to take a while. The main area of concern for me was the floor mats. Had I not been able to make the mats perfect, I would have failed at my job.

I started by completely vacuuming the interior and the mats. I then made sure there were no dies in the carpet and then grabbed my Lightning Fast and began working away. I first started by spraying down a light mist of water on the mat to help dampen them. After it had absorbed some water I then proceeded to apply an even coat of LightingFast to the mat. I let the mat absorb the shampoo for about 20 seconds, then hit it with the Porter Cable 7424 with the 5” backing plate and carpet brushattachment. With the PC set to speed “3”, I worked the brush back and forth to work in every little inch of that mat. After I was satisfied the shampoo was completely worked in, I grabbed a towel a wiped down the mat to pull the now lifted dirt off, as well as assist in the drying process. After letting the mat sit out for a while, I noticed there was a very, very thin shadow where one of the coffee stains used to be. So, I repeated the process with slightly less product and viola, the mat was now in what I considered to be perfect condition.

With my stress now gone, I repeat this process to the remaining mats as well as carpet in the vehicle itself. Needless to say the customer was astonished that the 5 year-old stains had been removed and he had just saved $150 from not having to purchase the new mats. He thanked me and then told me he would be my customer for life. Funny, because that is exactly what I told Chemical Guys the first time I used their products. Oh how the legend grows…

BEFORE

 AFTER

Review  Done By :

Vinny Sorreentino

Business Owner and Professional @  Detail By Vinny

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/vinnysorrentino

More car car product input from our amazing customers.

Thanks to everyone that has shared with us over the years. Our new Chemical Guys Blog http://chemicalguysusa.blogspot.com enables car enthusiasts, detailers and really anyone who simply loves car care to share your stories and passion with incredible people all around the world. Email your story to us at sales@chemicalguys.com or paul@chemicalguys.com.

Thank you Bill Rasmussen of Minnetonka, Minnesota for this incredible email.


Subject: Lava Wax review Thanks Chemical Guys!

Chemical Guys,

I recently put in an order for a jar of Lava wax, Hybrid V7 spray sealant and received a free 16 oz. bottle of Glossworkz Glaze. As soon as the products arrived, I went to work on my 2011 Octane Blue Mitsubishi Evo X. First, I applied the Glossworkz Glaze. Goes on and off very nicely. Then, I applied the Lava wax. Again. application was easy. Removing it was slightly difficult due to the heat and high humidity. Then, I sprayed on the Hybrid V7. After the car was done, I backed it out into the driveway and looked at the results.

The car was absolutely stunning. The shine was amazing. Depth, clarity and reflection were amazing. The metalflake in the paint popped like never before. I could not believe how great the car looked. As an aside, I am a hobbyist detailer and have been doing so for over 40 years. I have several large shelves in my garage full of just waxes and sealants. Some are from retail stores and some are more expensive, boutique type products. Never before have I seen the results like I got with the combination of Glossworkz Glaze, Lava and Hybrid V7.

The next day, my son and I decided to do his 2011 Mitsubishi Evo X as well. It is Wicked White. While it is easy to bring out depth in darker paint, it is much more difficult to do so with white or silver. We followed the same steps as on the Octane Blue Evo. Now comes the truly amazing part. The car was backed out into the driveway and the sun was quite intense, being around 3:00 in the afternoon. Looking at the car was actually painful! Both of us had to turn our eyes as the combination of sun and Lava made it difficult to look at the paint for any length of time. There is white and then there is radiant white. This is radiant, brilliant white.

We went and did a photo shoot afterwards with both cars. Now driving two Evos together in and of itself draws attention, but to have two eyepopping Evos with intense shines made it all the better. Will I buy more Lava in the future! Yes! Will I tell others about it? Yes! I will be posting this information on some forums that I belong to.

Now, the bigger question is what am I going to do with all those cans and jars of wax sitting forlornly on the shelf in the garage? Thanks Chemical Guys. I heart you.

Bill Rasmussen
Minnetonka, Minnesota