[blackpepper]

Hi Guys
I am planning to detail my wife's SUV this weekend, (so to get some experience to be implemented later on my Bimmer .
My questions are :
1.do you have to use the Zaino ZFX prior to the Z-5 ( for dark finish) or Z2 pro ( for white ) ?
2. Is this going to be the right sequence for a navy-blue matalic finish :
wash-dry-clay-Zaino AIO-zaino 5 pro - Z8 finish ? did i miss anything ?
3. can i apply Z-5 pro with the 7424 ? if so, what pad would you recommend
( I was thinking about the Lake-Country Gray ?)

Thanks for your help

BP

[BK]

I don't know anything about the Zaino AIO, unfortunately. Based on the Zaino website, it looks like you don't need ZFX if you're topping AIO with one coat of Z-5 or Z-2.

I'd recommend: wash - dry - clay - wipe down with IPA (some people prefer a re-wash instead) - polish with your 7424 using the Menz line of polishes - wipe down with IPA - Z-5 with ZFX (by hand) - buff off (by hand) - Z-2 with ZFX - buff off. I own but don't typically use Z-8 after sealing because I just don't see the claimed "additional gloss."

If you've never done this before, you're in for a surprise at how much work it is, especially if doing an SUV is your first project! You'll be sore the next day and quickly understand why good detailers charge several hundred dollars. But it's a labor of love on our cars, and you'll be looking to do it again soon enough.

[zaxjax]

I use Zaino and here's how I go about it - wash, clay, ZAIO, add your ZFX to Z5 Pro if you want to do multiple coats then Z8. If you do a single coat you do not need ZFX. ZFX is a curing additive that allows your to do multiple coats in one day instead of waiting for a single application to cure for 12 hours.


For dark cars I would do two coats of Z5 Pro and light colors get two coats of Z2 Pro.

You can even do two coats of Z5 and then follow up with Z2.

I do not apply sealants or waxes with a machine, I use hand applicators.

[DPritchett]

Originally Posted by blackpepper

Hi Guys
I am planning to detail my wife's SUV this weekend, (so to get some experience to be implemented later on my Bimmer .
My questions are :
1.do you have to use the Zaino ZFX prior to the Z-5 ( for dark finish) or Z2 pro ( for white ) ?
2. Is this going to be the right sequence for a navy-blue matalic finish :
wash-dry-clay-Zaino AIO-zaino 5 pro - Z8 finish ? did i miss anything ?
3. can i apply Z-5 pro with the 7424 ? if so, what pad would you recommend
( I was thinking about the Lake-Country Gray ?)

Thanks for your help

BP

1. You never have to use ZFX ... but the curing time is longer w/o. Also, if you use ZAIO, the next coat of Z5 or Z2 doesn't need ZFX. ZFX mixes with Z2 or Z5 -- you just add a few drops (4-5) to your small 2.0 oz. bottle.

2. Your sequence is fine as is. If you want, you can go for multiple coats of Z5 and or Z2. Per Zaino, if you use both, your last coat should be Z2.

3. I use a Porter Cable myself, and it definitely makes application easier / faster. Contrary to the experience of many, I find that it helps me apply a thinner coat and that I use less product than when applying by hand.

4. I would go with a finishing pad, definitely for the Z5. For the ZAIO, you could use a more aggressive pad, but only do this is your surface justifies.

[MenTul]

Originally Posted by zaxjax

If you do a single coat you do not need ZFX. ZFX is a curing additive that allows your to do multiple coats in one day instead of waiting for a single application to cure for 12 hours.

Do not underestimate the importance of curing time. In the 12 hours it takes to cure w/o ZFX who knows what crap might fall on your paint. Any dirt will scratch your car when it comes time to buff.

BTW. Do Z2 after Z5. Z5 has more filler to smooth out your paint. Z2 brings out shine.

[UncleWede]

If you put the 4-5 drops in 1 oz. of z2/5, you have enough for two coats on your car. Just use the supplied pad, but be sure to get it damp (preferably with Z6) before you start to apply.
With ZFX in the mix, you can apply going around car. When you get back to the start it's just about time to remove. Then as you get back around to start, it's about time to put the second coat, and the ZFX hasn't hardened the mix yet.
Wash the little applicator bottle with Dawn (or equivalent) when completed.

[blackpepper]

Thank You All
Got everything I need ( man, it ended up being EXPENSIVE !), I guess my debut with Zaino, PC 7424, foam gun, Lake country pads etc is going to take place this weekend. I will post some pics ( if all works well), I hope I dont screw up my wife's car..
Thanks again for your tips !!!
BP

[jopa489]

You'll do fine. Take your time, think things over, and focus on the specific task at hand.

Looking forward to seeing some pictures!