favorite wax

Actually @gorram, I’ve got a follow-on question. Where does Aerospace 303 protectant fall in the mix? From what I understand, it’s primarily meant to be used on plastics to prevent UV damage. Would PNS be a better option, keeping the 303 in reserve for interior applications only?

 

303 didn't last that long for me when I used it on the exterior, but you can always keep topping it I guess. It's hard to know how good the UV protection is on any of this stuff, just because it doesn't bead or have the look that it's there doesn't mean it's not still protecting. PNS probably would protect longer but maybe 303 does better in the short run. Usually a good rain or two and 303 seems to be gone. Definitely good for interior but like the exterior there are no end to good products available to use on any surface.

More so than paint since you have more options to enhance or clean up paint I'd recommend something that was a trim coating instead. Many detailing brands have them, something like Carpro DLUX for example. Particularly if you're going to be using Solution Finish. Let the SF dry and see if you need to go further with another application if needed or splotchy. When you're fully dry (24-48 hours) and no residue wipes up then apply a trim coating. Carpro DLUX for example can be used on metal too, high temp safe so great option for wheels too.

 

I figured there were specialty trim coatings out there, but I’m not keen on accumulating a pile of different specialized sprays when one will do the job adequately. All my maintenance stuff is kept in my toolbox, so space is at a premium. If I can get away with using PNS on all my exterior stuff, great. If I have to get a specialty coating just for trim, that’s fine too; I just need to determine what other fluid will be removed to make space.

 

The Trim coatings usually come in a small 30ml vial which is more than enough for two cars even with multiple coats. Though once opened it needs to be used up.

From CarPro: *This coatings shelf life expectancy is approximately 12-14 months unopened, and 6 months or less once opened.*

 

This is what I've been using lately too. Love it so far.

 

I guess this is my actual question: is PNS just a sub-optimal choice for trim, or will it outright not work at all? I place a higher premium on maintaining mechanical function of the vehicle, so all this exterior coating stuff is more of an afterthought.

 

There is always a better product to the point of having a whole arsenal of products. Products just meant to prep to apply other products, products to top other products, just depends on how deep down the rabbit hole you want to go. I can't speak to how your experience will turn out other than to recommend at least as far as trim goes to use a more durable product for it. Just look around at other vehicles and notice how awful the trim can get even in a few short years. The paint on the other hand will fair well if you just wash it and use some kind of spray wax/sealant/coating. All products still need to be cleaned after and either topped up or cleaned and reapplied at some point in time. I was just saying that something like 303 could last you two weeks, DLUX should last you many months. I'm sure PNS will fair somewhere in between but vary from user to user. Keep the truck in a garage and 303 will hold up well for example.

I don't see any loss in you giving PNS a try to see if you like it, got to start somewhere.

 

Used Collinite again today after first trying it 4 weeks ago. Washed the truck 2 times since and the wax held up good as far as beading. Also tried Mother's Speed Spray wax and that kind of compares to Turtle Wax Ice spray. Here's a pic of my tailgate after Collinite...can you spot my reflection?!

 

Col 845 was always my go to back in 2010-2012 when waxes were still the thing to use. Ceramic and Hydr02 (for maintenance) since I stopped using wax, so much easier and more effective.

However, of all the waxes I've used, 845 seems to be the easiest to apply and cheap. Menzerna Powerlock would be my second choice, equally as easy to apply (with a machine).

 

I always liked 845. Another favorite is Wolfgang Fuzion. I bought the small container and it would last forever it seemed. Felt like the wax melted as you applied to the pad.

 

Shine Supply Cherry Silica Wax, mix in a couple sprays of Shine Supply Clutch...And apply. A Great Combo!!!!!!

 

Just to be clear - since I like both products - Collonite 845 is a true wax. Jescar Power Lock is a synthetic sealant. Having used both, the Power Lock goes on and comes off easier - and lasts at least twice as long. And yes, coatings last much longer than either of the above.

 

once a year after every wash (excellent UV protection. I use it on everything: paint, plastic & rubber) every couple months for an extra pop

 

It don't get any easier than this. I use it on everything, rubber window seals, black plastic.

Meguiar's G18220 Ultimate Liquid Wax, 20 oz

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-G18220-Ultimate-Liquid-Fluid_Ounces/dp/B06WVGZL5W

 

If I ever am blessed again to live in the country I'll get my truck Line-X'ed. You cannot keep one looking shiny like my asphalt queen driving on gravel & dirt roads. I would not even try.

 

And if you want real easy it don't get any easier than McKee's 37 Hydro Blue Sio2.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EqZD0dN_3jM&feature=emb_logo

 

This. It’s the only wax I will use. I’ve tried others, but they never compare.

 

If I had a inside parking spot I would use Carnauba wax on my truck. They say if your truck/car sets outside in the sun, like mine does all day, the sun will melt the carnauba wax right off the paint.

 

Griots 3-1 Cermanic
Any of the Collinites
Megs Ultimate fast finish

 

Turtle Wax Flex is my go to now. I used Turtle Wax Ice for years but this new product is fantastic. I use the paste for the base and the spray for upkeep.