Clay bar, Ultimate Compound or both?

[subemaniac]

Hi All,

I've got a 10 year old Outback that has led a hard life. I think I waxed it once about 5 years ago. Other than that, just routine car washes. The finish is still pretty good, but the paint feels rough after washing. Before I wax it, I was thinking about using a clay bar but wonder if just using Ultimate Compound would be better. Would I want to use both? Maybe clay bar first then UC then wax? The paint has the usual swirls in the finish too. Thanks for the help!

[The Guz]

Re: Clay bar, Ultimate Compound or both?

You want to clay first to remove the above surface contaminants. Then proceed with compounding and polishing as they remove the below surface contaminants (ie swirls). Will you be working by hand or machine?

[subemaniac]

Re: Clay bar, Ultimate Compound or both?

I'll be working by hand. Thanks!

[The Guz]

Re: Clay bar, Ultimate Compound or both?

Just be aware that doing things by hand will not remove all swirls. You may be able to remove the light defects that are not too deep. The limitation is the hand. A dual action polisher will net better results.

[BillE]

Re: Clay bar, Ultimate Compound or both?

Just a suggestion... Don't try and do it all in one day!

Working my hand IS labor intensive to say the least. Say, do the roof one day, then the hood a day or so later. On and on till finished.

Good luck!

Bill

[subemaniac]

Re: Clay bar, Ultimate Compound or both?

OK. I appreciate the help! Thanks