Newbie questions (again)

Newbie questions (again)

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Discussion

rivercatch

Original Poster:

37 posts

113 months

Monday 17th November 2014
quotequote all
I have a classic 1997 Rover Mini in old English White. The paintwork is in average condition - some marks on some panels, other panels have been resprayed in the last couple of years. I can't yet afford a full professional polish of the paint (maybe in spring) and as a newbie I'm not starting with cutting compounds & power tools myself. So I just want to do the best protection job I can for the winter.

I've read here for research, and this is what I think, given I'm on a budget:

1 - Wash, (wheels first, two-bucket method) - Autoglym Bodywork Shampoo (which I already have)
2 - Clay ????
3 - Polish - Autoglym Super Resin Polish (which I have)
4 - Protect - Autoglym Extra Gloss Protection (which I have) and/or Autoglym High Definition Wax (which I need to buy).

Is the clay step necessary? If so is there a good simple product for a beginner & occasional user which won't cause damage?

Also is it both the Gloss Protection and the Wax - or only one of these? If so which is better.

Also the reason I have the Autoglym products is that I was given them.

Also the Mini has to live outside, and it has a vinyl/pvc sunroof. I have a breathable waterproof cover that is used most of the time.

Thanks,

Chris_VRS

1,876 posts

192 months

Monday 17th November 2014
quotequote all
That all looks fine, wouldn't bother purchasing the wax as Extra Gloss Protection is the protection element of your process - very underrated product too!

Enjoy smile

Chris
Summit Detailing

Tim662

69 posts

134 months

Wednesday 19th November 2014
quotequote all
Fully wash and dry the car then stick your hand in a plastic bag. If the paint feels rough when you carefully run your hand in the bag over it then yes, get the clay out. smile

Craikeybaby

10,369 posts

224 months

Tuesday 25th November 2014
quotequote all
If you are planning on getting it professionally polished in the spring I wouldn't bother with the claying step and just get some protection on it for the winter.