What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, after 15 years in the trade, I've seen too many people jump straight to polishing while their paint is still filthy. If you've spent the summer parked under a gum tree or trekking through the red dust out west, your paint is likely riddled with contaminants that a normal wash won't touch. This checklist is exactly what I use in my shop to get a car ready for a proper wax or ceramic coating. It's not rocket science, but you've gotta do it right or you'll mar the living daylights out of your panels.
The Gear You Actually Need
What You'll Need
Pre-Start Checklist (Don't skip this!)
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Step-By-Step Execution
Section your clay
Cut your clay bar into 3 or 4 pieces. Flatten one out into a patty. If you drop it on the garage floor, chuck it in the bin immediately.
Lube the panel
Work on a small area, maybe 40cm x 40cm. Spray the lubricant liberally. You want that clay sliding like it's on ice.
Light pressure only
Glide the clay back and forth. No need to push hard. You'll hear it 'singing' as it picks up grit, then it'll go silent when smooth.
Check and fold
After each section, look at the clay. If it's brown from red dust or black from fallout, fold it over to a clean side.
Wipe and move on
Wipe the excess lube off with a microfibre. Feel the paint. It should feel like glass. If it's still catchy, give it another pass.
Final Inspection
What You'll Need
Watch Out
A Quick Thought
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