*Official* Ask A Detailer Thread

I just ordered the griots garage 6".

 

Anyone have any input on the easiest coating to apply? Opticoat? CQuartz? Other?

 

I have used Optimum Glosscoat. Super easy to apply. I applied to two panels at a time. Once done with 2nd panel I would wipe off the 1st panel then move on to next panel. I was really nervous about using the coating but it was super easy and highly recommend it. So far I have applied to 3 vehicles.

 

I used the AmmoNYC wheel regiment and wrote a few words about on my build thread if anyone is interested.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/building-a-toy-a-photo-essay.400021/page-5#post-11472041

 

Can any Detailer's comment on any experiences with Tire shine / Tire Gels overspray staining white paint? I like to use some type of tire dressing but stained the shit outta my white paint on my 2012 Tacoma. Got a 16' on order and would like to know is anyone else has had similar experiences.

 

because its silicone based most likely and flings on to your paint.

you need a quality product, or you're putting too much on.

 

Can anyone tell me how to protect my headlights on my new 2016 truck? I want to keep them like new and the roads up here are brutal in the winter, so lots of salt!
should I wax the headlights? I did the "mothers 3 step treatment" on the truck right after buying it...(polish, sealer and then carnuaba wax) but I did nothing to the lights...any help would be appreciated

 

How about putting clear bra on them? If not then find good uv sealer thats what makes them hazy. Wax doesnt last long on headlights

 

a clear bra? what's that?

 

A UV film.

Think of it like a clear tint film for your headlights.

 

what do the detailers on here use on new headlights?

 

I use Meguiars Headlight Protectant. It's the consistency of sun tan lotion. You just rub a few drops all over the headlights- wipe on, wipe off. Lights will feel super slick afterwards. Reapply as needed, but I think every 6-8 weeks would be realistic. It works just like a polymer paint sealer.

I purchase on Amazon, but here's a Walmart link.
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Meguiar-s-Headlight-Protectant/19794456

 

I also sometimes use Aerospace 303. It's a spray, wipe on wipe off. Also very good stuff and easier to apply more frequently. Mist it and wipe off weekly if you want. That would keep them protected as well. You can also use it on tires and all interior/exterior plastic and vinyl. A nice all purpose protectant. Arguably one of the best around.

 

Clear film, usualy u see it on front ends of cars to protect paint from rock chips, you can remove it after few years and have perfect paint under it

 

Im sure if you get one of those headlight restoration kits it has uv headlight sealer or sometimes you can buy it separetly

 

i use Sonax Polymer net-shield on my headlights after restoring.

 

Got some oil and grease on my steering wheel and inside door handles. What do you guys recommend I use to best remove these stains? Thanks

 

All purpose cleaner or citrus degreaser

 

I ended up getting a griots 6" DA. And I got 3", 3.5", and 5" backing plates.

 

Pretty good price on the gloss coat and polyseal right now: