Products to use in general...

[Gene H.]

Hello Everybody,

I was lucky enough to purchase a '92 4matic that has been kept in mint condition. I would like to continue to take good care of the paint and wood interior pieces. Any suggestions on a good detergent to wash with and a good wax ??


Thanks
Gene[8)]

[bjwebster]

Well, there are tons of good products out there. What are your goals?

Shine?
Longeveity?
Protection?
Depth?
How Much Time Are You Willing To Spend?
How Much Money Are You Willing To Spend?

[Gene H.]

I know my question is somewhat vague and elementary at the same time. Yes, there are tons of products out there- and they all for most look the same to me. Some are expensive and some are cheap. Some are available here in Anchorage and I'm sure there are tons more available on the internet. I am interested in decent wash detergent that will give a good shine, clean well and not damage the paint. Likewise in a wax I am looking for something that protects (winter is coming, I live in Anchorage) and gives a good shine... If the products are worthy I don't mind paying for it - I just didn't want to get into a trial and error scenario. Longevity is key...

Any specific care for MBTex.

Thanks for the reply ![8)]

[bjwebster]

I personally use a product called Zaino. I have never used anything that lasts longer ever. (And I have used lots of products). (Do you know if your vehicle has clear coated paint? I will explain this procedure for clear coats, but if its not it’s a simple swap of one product and ill explain that at the end)
Zaino is a whole system.
It consists of:

Step1:
Either Z1 as you first step or ZFX a flash Cure Accelerator. If you use Z1, you only use it before your first initial coat. I personally don’t use it because I like ZFX much better. ZFX is not an extra step like Z1 because it mixes in the product itself. ZFX does cost a bit more, but it will allow you to apply three coats in one day versus having to wait 24 hours between coats. Three coats will last an incredibly long time.

Step2:
I would recommend using the ZFX with Z5 for your first one or two coats. This will help fill in any swirls or scratches.

Step3:
Your last coat would be with Z2. It is supposed to have the best optical qualities for the best shine possible.

Breakdown of products I would recommend:
1: Z1 or ZFX
2: Z2 (Zaino Bros' Show Car Polish for clear-coated paint) or for non-clear coat: Z3 (Zaino Bros' Show Car Polish for regular paint)
3: Z5 (Zaino Bros' Z-5 Polish for swirl marks & fine scratches) this works for clear and non-clear coated cars
4: Z6 (Zaino Bros' Ultra Clean "Gloss Enhancer" Spray) this is for use between coats, or for any smudges or touchups when they are not big enough for a wash
5: Z7 (Zaino Bros' Show Car Wash (concentrate)) this is a wonderful wash. It will help keep your car ultra slick, and each Z7 wash makes the car look even better

I know this probably seems like a lot of trouble, but it’s really not. You can do this once and it will last a very long time, versus using a traditional wax that will most likely be gone in less than one month.
It also probably seems like a lot of products, but again, they work incredibly well and will last you a very long time.

I know that was a lot and may be kind of confusing. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask!
[:)][:)]

Link To Zaino's Website: http://zainobros.com/

Zaino is not sold in stores. Ita a pretty archaic system where you mail Sal Zaino the check and he sends the product. You can also e-mail him and see if he has any local distributors in your area.

--Bolton

[DUTCH]

It is, in my experience, also the easiest to apply of any other car finishes I've used in the last 45 years.

You don't rub it in or have to manually polish the surface. Just wipe on a thin coat. Hot sun? Go for it. Apply and let sit over night before wiping it off? No problem.

Just my experience. The G500 in the sig photo has Zaino and the truck is 2 years old.

[bjwebster]

It is, in my experience, also the easiest to apply of any other car finishes I've used in the last 45 years.

You don't rub it in or have to manually polish the surface. Just wipe on a thin coat. Hot sun? Go for it. Apply and let sit over night before wiping it off? No problem.

Just my experience. The G500 in the sig photo has Zaino and the truck is 2 years old.

I Could Not Agree anymore. As long as the coats are applied thin, it is so easy to use and work with, it will make other products seem barbaric.

[Gene H.]

Sorry for the late reply, I just got back into town...


I appreciate the tips - I'm preparing to order a supply Monday morning! Which washing detergents work best in general or with Zaino?


Thanks again,
Gene [;)]

[Gene H.]

Oops... I just reread your original reply to answer my question about car washs.


gene

[Lynn]

Before using Zaino for the first time, wash the car with Dawn dishwashing detergent to remove the old wax and other crud.

[MercedesMax]

I've always been keen on keeping my Benzes looking their best, so have been through many products over the years.

The best I've come across are Autoglym. They're from the UK, and are the approved cleaners for quite a few prestige makes, including MB. Many of us in the MB Club chapter here in BC are now using Autoglym products.

The engine and machine cleaner is particularly good - the first time I used it I had just bought the 190D turbo, and there was years of caked on oil and crap. I could not believe the way the oil and gunk just fell off the motor and surrounds. Better still is that this stuff is not caustic, so does not corrode any of the aluminium parts like so many other degreasers do. It's also excellent on the inside of wheel arches etc.

The polishes are also particularly good - similar to other good products, there are a number of stages to the process. The water doesn't just bead, it sheets off the car and only needs to be done every six months to one year. My 190 now looks brand new again - not bad for a 15 year old car!

Before you ask, I do not work or am not associated with Autoglym [;)], just a really impressed customer.