GTSLEX

iTrader: (2)

hi guys,

there is a debate whether or not black lexus have clear coat on the paint. Can anybody confirm this for me? I plan on detailing my car soon and below is my process... please critique if needed.

1) Z-7 wash (foamgun & dual bucket method)
2) Z-18 claybar
3) Z-7 wash (foamgun & dual bucket method)
4) Swirlmark Remover PoorboysSUPER SWIRL REMOVER - SSR1 or SSR2? By hand?
5) Z-2 pro w/ ZFX (3 coats)
6) A layer of pure carnuba.

Thanks

INHOCJP

Here's a thread on the clearcoat issue:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...lack+clearcoat

On step 4, you may want to apply the polish via a Porter Cable. Doing it by hand likely won't remove all the swirl marks.

On step 6, not sure if you want to add carnuba. Then you won't be able to apply future layers of Z2 or Z5 w/out stripping the carnuba first.

On step 5, you may want to use Z5, which is good for dark colors. Here's the result on my GS.




Have fun, black looks great after the Zanio treatment

CdeFabio

Instead of your step 4, I would try this:
http://www.zainostore.com/Merchant2/...ory_Code=Zaino
It is great, I just used it on my wife's Black Sapphire X5 and it makes the paint look and feel better than new! Also use Z6 in between coats of Z2 and finish with the new Z8. Do not use any carnuba wax with the Zaino system, it is not needed. After each wash use Z6 or Z8 to keep the smooth finish. You will love the way your car looks!

Guitarman

During the swirlmark removal process, you'll find out if you have clear or single stage, because single stage paint will leave your pad or towel with black paint on it (any abrasive will prove this out). Clearcoat won't.

I'm betting it's clear since most of the 2001 + cars are cleared, according to the database taken here about a year ago. Let us know though.

GTSLEX

iTrader: (2)

Wow that looks great... thanks for sharing.

GTSLEX

iTrader: (2)

Godd suggestion. Did the ZPC take out water spots?

CdeFabio

My problem was some chemical etched spots in the clear coat on the back driver door and ZPC removed them. You can only tell if you are looking very close at a certain angle, then you will see what is left of about 5 spots, I am probably the only person who can really see them. I have not tried it on water spots, but from using it so far I would say try it, it probably will work great for you. Before using ZPC I tried scratch X and tar remover with no luck. I am not sure what chemical it was but it left what looked like wax spots on the door. This door had 3 coats of Z2 plus Z8 on it when it happened and it ate right through it. My wife thinks it might have been some sunscreen in an aerosol spray can she used too close to the car. The ZPC is really great stuff and saved me from going to a body shop!