Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing

mrche · 05-08-2005, 12:40 AM

Washed my truck today. After doing that, I decided that I'd wax it. I bought a container of Turtle Wax Carnauba Wax that I used on the hood, right fender and door. (Then It got to late to finish, so that's what I'm doing first thing tommorow morning.) And it didn't look much different. Am I just using a bad product, or is it not suppose to be noticable?

Also... I forgot to apply this scratch remover to some waxed areas. Would I just apply this, and then rewax?

-tomislav

RedNoma · 05-08-2005, 12:52 AM

I've never used the Turtle wax before, but you should be able to tell a big difference. I had heard they were good, but I only use Mothers or Meguairs. I really like both em. I recommend getting a buffer/polisher tho. They are easy to use and make a world of difference. I love mine.

2LW2TW · 05-08-2005, 01:37 AM

I waxed my truck last week for the first time as well. I bucket washed it and dryed it. I then waxed it by hand with Mothers all-in-one Cleaner Wax using round wax applicators and brand new 100% cotton towels to wipe it off. The paint on the truck is still great because its a 2001, but after I was done waxing the truck, the thing looked like it just rolled off the assembly line. It looks great and it rained today and the water just beads off so nicely. I also used rain-x for the first time on all the exterior glass and I do have to say its the best 2 bucks ive ever spent at an auto parts store. Well as far as your situation, I don't know what condition your paint was in so its hard to say.

FlintTown · 05-08-2005, 01:56 AM

Rain-X is one of the best things to apply to any windshield, half the time you dont even use your windshield wipers because the water beads off so quickly. Well worth the money!

Quote: Originally Posted by 2LW2TW

I . I also used rain-x for the first time on all the exterior glass and I do have to say its the best 2 bucks ive ever spent at an auto parts store..

mrche · 05-08-2005, 02:36 AM

by the way, what does everyone think is the best drying method, using a leather chamois, or a leaf blower to blow off the water?

mrche · 05-08-2005, 02:16 PM

So, Like I said, I waxed for the first time today.

I was going to finish the rest of the truck today, but pollen was all over it once again, so I jsut said 'I'll just wait another two weeks until the pollen disappears.'

I sprayed water onto the truck to see the difference between the waxed area and the not waxed area. the waxed area beaded well, but SPOTTED REALLY BAD. That pissed me off. It looked better in the places where I didn't wax. Is it supopse to be like that? I guess so, huh.

HouseOfAtlas · 05-08-2005, 02:25 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by mrche

by the way, what does everyone think is the best drying method, using a leather chamois, or a leaf blower to blow off the water?

I use a leather chamois and like it a lot. I don't think I'll use anything else, but I've heard using a leaf blower works just as well (maybe better.... not sure, because I don't have one

)

2LW2TW · 05-08-2005, 03:26 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by mrche

So, Like I said, I waxed for the first time today.

I was going to finish the rest of the truck today, but pollen was all over it once again, so I jsut said 'I'll just wait another two weeks until the pollen disappears.'

I sprayed water onto the truck to see the difference between the waxed area and the not waxed area. the waxed area beaded well, but SPOTTED REALLY BAD. That pissed me off. It looked better in the places where I didn't wax. Is it supopse to be like that? I guess so, huh.

Well the only place I have spotting is on my fiberglass tonneau cover. Thats probably because the water just sits on it and doesnt roll off so the water evaporates and leaves the dirt behind.

Nate01Xtreme · 05-08-2005, 08:06 PM

Go with Meguiars NXT Generation. Goes on and off the easiest. And it gets rid of light scratches. MEGUIARS IS THE BEST !!!

Nate01Xtreme · 05-08-2005, 08:11 PM

As far as drying get a chamois, the one that comes in a plastic bottle called the Asorber. I think it is like $10. Best one I have found. Wax isn't going to keep you from getting water spots.

RedNoma · 05-08-2005, 08:12 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by mrche

by the way, what does everyone think is the best drying method, using a leather chamois, or a leaf blower to blow off the water?

I've got the Mr. Clean auto dry kit. I really like it. When used right it has a good result.

dropped1 · 05-08-2005, 11:59 PM

Ahh, don't use any of those rubber absorbers, california water blades, or any of that on anything but your windows. You're just asking to damage your paint.

Use a leaf blower, and get all the water out of the crevices, then use a quality 100% WHITE cotton towel, or a quality microfiber style drying towel like a waffle weave.

That mr. clean thing is a waste IMO, you have to use their soap, and their replacement filters which all adds up to $$$. Just spend the money on some quality towels. Don't be lazy.

LikeaRock · 05-10-2005, 02:05 AM

When you've got a free weekend and it's nice, do a complete detail on the truck. The time and effort you put in will really pay off in the end.

What sort of condition is the paint in? Are there some swirl marks, light scratches, oxidation, etc? Waxes add protection, yes, but if the paint isn't prepped correctly beforehand, then you're basically waisting wax. turtle Wax is a good product, but there's tons of other products out there that can give ytou the results yo want. Some waxes actually work better on certain colors. Some make the metal flakes in a metallic paintjob really sparkle, some can mute it, its the same for all paintjobs.

Start out with a clay bar after you wash. It's an easy step, and it doesn't take long. You can purchase them at Autozone, PepBoys, Napa, and check to see if you've got any local detailing stores around. Using the clay is easy. Use CAR WASH SOAP and water in a bottle, spray it on the surface and run the clay across the surface of the paint. It'll pick up most of the contaminates on the paintjob, and leave a smooth surface for the next step. When claying, do small areas at a time, and go in the same direction. Use plenty of lube and keep folding the bar over and over so you have a clean surface to work with. If you drop the bar, throw it away, all the crap on the ground basically ruins it. It helps to cut the bar into 3rds or 4ths, that way when you drop a piece there's more to work with.

If the truck has minor or bad swirls, I'd reccomend something like Klasse AIO (All In One), a 3< polish, or if you want to order a polish off the internet, try PoorBoys SSR2, and SSR1 to follow that. They work great when applied by machine, yet also work great when applied by hand, it just takes more effort. If there's a minor haze left by the swirl remover, polish it again with a less abrasive compound, it'll remove all the hazing and take away any minor swirls left, for the most part that is.

Follow that with a quality wax. Meguiars #26 (Yellow Carnauba Wax) is an excellent off-the-shelf wax, it can be found almost anywhere too. Apply it with a microfiber applicator or a sponge applicator. I'm a fan of the MF apps, since they seem easier to work the product with IMO. 2-3 coats of wax will really bring the shine out in that baby.

It seems like a lot of work, yes, but in the end the results are outstanding, and you will envy your work. It's worth the time to do it right, even if you've got to spend a few extra bucks

BIGGERISBETTER · 05-10-2005, 07:25 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Nate01Xtreme

As far as drying get a chamois, the one that comes in a plastic bottle called the Asorber. I think it is like $10. Best one I have found. Wax isn't going to keep you from getting water spots.

I bought that thing too and im happy with it. Ive used it since my new paint and it hasnt caused any damage. It picks up water good.. cept for on my grill.. but i think thats just because its plastic.

nox · 05-10-2005, 07:28 AM

I love the absorber.

How exactly does it hurt the paint?

BIGGERISBETTER · 05-10-2005, 07:59 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by nox

I love the absorber.

How exactly does it hurt the paint?

My guess is that it picks up dirt particles that you didnt get when washing.. and then ya run them down the side or somethin causing some scratches. But unless it was some serious dirt.. i dont think it would even be enough to notice.

nox · 05-10-2005, 08:01 AM

probably.

absorber + spray quick wax = best inventions ever

Waynestowels · 05-10-2005, 10:08 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by dropped1

Ahh, don't use any of those rubber absorbers, california water blades, or any of that on anything but your windows. You're just asking to damage your paint.

Use a leaf blower, and get all the water out of the crevices, then use a quality 100% WHITE cotton towel, or a quality microfiber style drying towel like a waffle weave.

That mr. clean thing is a waste IMO, you have to use their soap, and their replacement filters which all adds up to $$$. Just spend the money on some quality towels. Don't be lazy.

My thoughts exactly

comics22 · 05-14-2005, 09:22 PM

i use one of those california wiper blade things and it works well u just hav to be sure u washed your truck

but ya i havent noticed anythig scratch wise from using the blade
i dont think a leaf blower (atleast here u wouldnt) would be good

cuz it would suck in dust and pollen and "shoot" it at your truck at 150+mph but it may work
i wouldnt though

Scott01 · 05-15-2005, 01:03 AM

If you got an air comprsseor use it with a blower attachment.One thing that helps drying is if you take the sprayer off your water hose and just let the water run normally out of the hose.Its low pressure so it will get the soap out of your mirror,grille,cowl,etc.ANd the water sheets away as you go.

05-08-2005, 12:40 AM	#1
mrche "Let's shag ass." Join Date: Mar 2003 Posts: 205 Location: South Jersey User is: OffLine	Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing Washed my truck today. After doing that, I decided that I'd wax it. I bought a container of Turtle Wax Carnauba Wax that I used on the hood, right fender and door. (Then It got to late to finish, so that's what I'm doing first thing tommorow morning.) And it didn't look much different. Am I just using a bad product, or is it not suppose to be noticable? Also... I forgot to apply this scratch remover to some waxed areas. Would I just apply this, and then rewax? -tomislav
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 12:52 AM	#2
RedNoma . Age: 21 Join Date: Oct 2004 Posts: 10,870 Location: south central KY User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing I've never used the Turtle wax before, but you should be able to tell a big difference. I had heard they were good, but I only use Mothers or Meguairs. I really like both em. I recommend getting a buffer/polisher tho. They are easy to use and make a world of difference. I love mine.
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 01:37 AM	#3
2LW2TW Got Beer? Age: 28 Join Date: Oct 2003 Posts: 1,599 Location: Rhode Island User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing I waxed my truck last week for the first time as well. I bucket washed it and dryed it. I then waxed it by hand with Mothers all-in-one Cleaner Wax using round wax applicators and brand new 100% cotton towels to wipe it off. The paint on the truck is still great because its a 2001, but after I was done waxing the truck, the thing looked like it just rolled off the assembly line. It looks great and it rained today and the water just beads off so nicely. I also used rain-x for the first time on all the exterior glass and I do have to say its the best 2 bucks ive ever spent at an auto parts store. Well as far as your situation, I don't know what condition your paint was in so its hard to say.
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 01:56 AM	#4
FlintTown Skatin On 6Kickers Age: 28 Join Date: Oct 2004 Posts: 104 Location: Chandler, AZ User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing Rain-X is one of the best things to apply to any windshield, half the time you dont even use your windshield wipers because the water beads off so quickly. Well worth the money! Quote: Originally Posted by 2LW2TW I . I also used rain-x for the first time on all the exterior glass and I do have to say its the best 2 bucks ive ever spent at an auto parts store..
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 02:36 AM	#5
mrche "Let's shag ass." Join Date: Mar 2003 Posts: 205 Location: South Jersey User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing by the way, what does everyone think is the best drying method, using a leather chamois, or a leaf blower to blow off the water?
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 02:16 PM	#6
mrche "Let's shag ass." Join Date: Mar 2003 Posts: 205 Location: South Jersey User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing So, Like I said, I waxed for the first time today. I was going to finish the rest of the truck today, but pollen was all over it once again, so I jsut said 'I'll just wait another two weeks until the pollen disappears.' I sprayed water onto the truck to see the difference between the waxed area and the not waxed area. the waxed area beaded well, but SPOTTED REALLY BAD. That pissed me off. It looked better in the places where I didn't wax. Is it supopse to be like that? I guess so, huh.
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 02:25 PM	#7
HouseOfAtlas Time to bulk up! Age: 27 Join Date: Feb 2004 Posts: 4,330 Location: Cottage Grove, Minnesota User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing Quote: Originally Posted by mrche by the way, what does everyone think is the best drying method, using a leather chamois, or a leaf blower to blow off the water? I use a leather chamois and like it a lot. I don't think I'll use anything else, but I've heard using a leaf blower works just as well (maybe better.... not sure, because I don't have one )
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 03:26 PM	#8
2LW2TW Got Beer? Age: 28 Join Date: Oct 2003 Posts: 1,599 Location: Rhode Island User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing Quote: Originally Posted by mrche So, Like I said, I waxed for the first time today. I was going to finish the rest of the truck today, but pollen was all over it once again, so I jsut said 'I'll just wait another two weeks until the pollen disappears.' I sprayed water onto the truck to see the difference between the waxed area and the not waxed area. the waxed area beaded well, but SPOTTED REALLY BAD. That pissed me off. It looked better in the places where I didn't wax. Is it supopse to be like that? I guess so, huh. Well the only place I have spotting is on my fiberglass tonneau cover. Thats probably because the water just sits on it and doesnt roll off so the water evaporates and leaves the dirt behind.
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 08:06 PM	#9
Nate01Xtreme Registered User Age: 26 Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 171 Location: Ohio User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing Go with Meguiars NXT Generation. Goes on and off the easiest. And it gets rid of light scratches. MEGUIARS IS THE BEST !!!
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 08:11 PM	#10
Nate01Xtreme Registered User Age: 26 Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 171 Location: Ohio User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing As far as drying get a chamois, the one that comes in a plastic bottle called the Asorber. I think it is like $10. Best one I have found. Wax isn't going to keep you from getting water spots.
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 08:12 PM	#11
RedNoma . Age: 21 Join Date: Oct 2004 Posts: 10,870 Location: south central KY User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing Quote: Originally Posted by mrche by the way, what does everyone think is the best drying method, using a leather chamois, or a leaf blower to blow off the water? I've got the Mr. Clean auto dry kit. I really like it. When used right it has a good result.
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-08-2005, 11:59 PM	#12
dropped1 bagged1 Age: 23 Join Date: Sep 2002 Posts: 2,214 Location: Yokosuka, Japan User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing Ahh, don't use any of those rubber absorbers, california water blades, or any of that on anything but your windows. You're just asking to damage your paint. Use a leaf blower, and get all the water out of the crevices, then use a quality 100% WHITE cotton towel, or a quality microfiber style drying towel like a waffle weave. That mr. clean thing is a waste IMO, you have to use their soap, and their replacement filters which all adds up to $$$. Just spend the money on some quality towels. Don't be lazy. Last edited by dropped1 : 05-09-2005 at 12:00 AM.
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-10-2005, 02:05 AM	#13
LikeaRock Rustbucket Club Age: 22 Join Date: Jun 2004 Posts: 772 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing When you've got a free weekend and it's nice, do a complete detail on the truck. The time and effort you put in will really pay off in the end. What sort of condition is the paint in? Are there some swirl marks, light scratches, oxidation, etc? Waxes add protection, yes, but if the paint isn't prepped correctly beforehand, then you're basically waisting wax. turtle Wax is a good product, but there's tons of other products out there that can give ytou the results yo want. Some waxes actually work better on certain colors. Some make the metal flakes in a metallic paintjob really sparkle, some can mute it, its the same for all paintjobs. Start out with a clay bar after you wash. It's an easy step, and it doesn't take long. You can purchase them at Autozone, PepBoys, Napa, and check to see if you've got any local detailing stores around. Using the clay is easy. Use CAR WASH SOAP and water in a bottle, spray it on the surface and run the clay across the surface of the paint. It'll pick up most of the contaminates on the paintjob, and leave a smooth surface for the next step. When claying, do small areas at a time, and go in the same direction. Use plenty of lube and keep folding the bar over and over so you have a clean surface to work with. If you drop the bar, throw it away, all the crap on the ground basically ruins it. It helps to cut the bar into 3rds or 4ths, that way when you drop a piece there's more to work with. If the truck has minor or bad swirls, I'd reccomend something like Klasse AIO (All In One), a 3< polish, or if you want to order a polish off the internet, try PoorBoys SSR2, and SSR1 to follow that. They work great when applied by machine, yet also work great when applied by hand, it just takes more effort. If there's a minor haze left by the swirl remover, polish it again with a less abrasive compound, it'll remove all the hazing and take away any minor swirls left, for the most part that is. Follow that with a quality wax. Meguiars #26 (Yellow Carnauba Wax) is an excellent off-the-shelf wax, it can be found almost anywhere too. Apply it with a microfiber applicator or a sponge applicator. I'm a fan of the MF apps, since they seem easier to work the product with IMO. 2-3 coats of wax will really bring the shine out in that baby. It seems like a lot of work, yes, but in the end the results are outstanding, and you will envy your work. It's worth the time to do it right, even if you've got to spend a few extra bucks
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-10-2005, 07:25 AM	#14
BIGGERISBETTER flat blue and layin frame Age: 25 Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 5,871 Location: Bolivar, Ohio User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing Quote: Originally Posted by Nate01Xtreme As far as drying get a chamois, the one that comes in a plastic bottle called the Asorber. I think it is like $10. Best one I have found. Wax isn't going to keep you from getting water spots. I bought that thing too and im happy with it. Ive used it since my new paint and it hasnt caused any damage. It picks up water good.. cept for on my grill.. but i think thats just because its plastic.
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-10-2005, 07:28 AM	#15
nox rox Age: 26 Join Date: Feb 2002 Posts: 8,990 Location: A Holiday Inn near you... User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing I love the absorber. How exactly does it hurt the paint?
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-10-2005, 07:59 AM	#16
BIGGERISBETTER flat blue and layin frame Age: 25 Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 5,871 Location: Bolivar, Ohio User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing Quote: Originally Posted by nox I love the absorber. How exactly does it hurt the paint? My guess is that it picks up dirt particles that you didnt get when washing.. and then ya run them down the side or somethin causing some scratches. But unless it was some serious dirt.. i dont think it would even be enough to notice.
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-10-2005, 08:01 AM	#17
nox rox Age: 26 Join Date: Feb 2002 Posts: 8,990 Location: A Holiday Inn near you... User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing probably. absorber + spray quick wax = best inventions ever
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-10-2005, 10:08 AM	#18
Waynestowels Registered User Age: 47 Join Date: Nov 2004 Posts: 805 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing Quote: Originally Posted by dropped1 Ahh, don't use any of those rubber absorbers, california water blades, or any of that on anything but your windows. You're just asking to damage your paint. Use a leaf blower, and get all the water out of the crevices, then use a quality 100% WHITE cotton towel, or a quality microfiber style drying towel like a waffle weave. That mr. clean thing is a waste IMO, you have to use their soap, and their replacement filters which all adds up to $$$. Just spend the money on some quality towels. Don't be lazy. My thoughts exactly
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-14-2005, 09:22 PM	#19
comics22 Pac is a hackin! Join Date: Jan 2005 Posts: 6,124 Location: Middle of freakin IL User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing i use one of those california wiper blade things and it works well u just hav to be sure u washed your truck but ya i havent noticed anythig scratch wise from using the blade i dont think a leaf blower (atleast here u wouldnt) would be good cuz it would suck in dust and pollen and "shoot" it at your truck at 150+mph but it may work i wouldnt though
	[Reply w/Quote]

05-15-2005, 01:03 AM	#20
Scott01 ZR2 member Age: 37 Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 1,903 Location: Northeast Ky User is: OffLine	Re: Turtle Carnauba Wax -- First Time Waxing If you got an air comprsseor use it with a blower attachment.One thing that helps drying is if you take the sprayer off your water hose and just let the water run normally out of the hose.Its low pressure so it will get the soap out of your mirror,grille,cowl,etc.ANd the water sheets away as you go.
	[Reply w/Quote]