Best way to clay my 2016 Tacoma

I have clayed several vehicles and have never had marring. Claying is simple. So first time you might want to start with a big box kit.

Yes, you are picking up contaminants but that is why the clay needs to be kneeded repeatedly.

 

New vehicles need clayed. A lot pick up contaminants from transportation. Especially if they have been shipped by rail car.

 

I agree. Many new vehicles are full of bonded contaminants. It's a great time to clay a vehicle if done correctly- get it good and clean before sealing it up with a polymer sealer (i.e. Synthetic Wax).

 

And using medium grade clay....

 

I have clayed a few cars in the past but in recent times have not. To me it doesn't make a difference. The paint looks fine and my LSP still protects/beads water just fine without having clayed the car. That's me though...

 

I appreciate everyone's thoughts. I purchased the new clay bar kit from Adam's Polishes. I'm still kind of apprehensive as like previously stated I have never clayed before. Still, I've heard overwhelming good things about claying. I enjoy detailing and I don't think I will have a problem as long as I take my time and don't rush. I've been told that clay is in fact the SAFEST way to remove bonded contaminants. Again, Thank You to everyone for your feedback.

 

Claying doesn't effect LSP. However a clayed vehicle will stay cleaner longer. Plus you eliminate the fish of the contaminant getting in your applicator and scratching/swirling paint.

If paint is being marred then there is no where near enough lubrication for the clay.

 

Not doubting you, but how does it help it stay cleaner longer? I find that just by using a water based LSP as opposed to a silicone/oil based LSP really cuts down on stuff sticking to the surface. Check out Prima Hydro Max. It's a water based polymer spray sealant that can be used on a wet or dry surface. I use it as a drying aid as well as a LSP. Safe on trim. Durable.

 

The paint on my 2015 was very rough the day I brought it home from the Dealer, clay did a great job removing all the contamination and prepped for a good waxing.

 

Dust and grime collect to the contaminants after it rains and what not. My wife says she can tell a difference in her car after claying.

I have been using Optimum Gloss Coat on our vehicles topped with Opti-seal. Works well so far.

Hydro Max sounds similar to Adams H2O Guard and Gloss.

 

Clay bar= liquid soft finish.

 

I bought a few of their products last week and am timpressed. Ill be claying my truck in the next few weeks then buttery wax and h20 sealing.

https://youtu.be/rm67k_ArlF0

 

Nice! I need some..

 

H20 is amazing. I just tried out the new wash and wax tonight. Very solid product. It is derived from silica which is in coatings.

 

Claying is almost a necessity if you're going to polish with a DA polisher. If you don't clay on contaminated paint polishing will take a lot longer and make your pads dirtier faster.

If you're just throwing some cheap meguairs cleaner wax on then no, it doesn't really matter unless you want it to feel smooth.

 

I disagree. A vehicle that has been clay barred is easier to keep clean. You will be surprised at the difference it makes

 

This is way better than clay. Easier and faster to use, plus it can be used multiple times. I used dishwasher soap, a few drops into a spray bottle with water. Works!

 

The meguairs clay kit is awesome. It cost me like 17 bucks and I've clayed 3 cars and still have clay left. If you've never clayed your car before I suggest clawing the car followed by a cleaner wax. I did this to my 24 year old white t4r and she looked 20 years younger when I was done. The clay took all the contaminants out but when I was done there was smudges of old oil and grease. The cleaner wax took all of that out and then I waxed it. Night and day difference

 

Subd for later

 

I've used the Meguiar's clay in the past with good results but I'm going to switch to one of the mitts this year, just need to get rid of the snow and ice and get to detailing season !