What's In DFB's Cabinet?

[Evolvd]

My car sits in the street and under a tree It almost looks like it's been through a hailstorm from the dents of branches and animals. Bird poop, sap etc it gets filthy really quick. I think for now I'll do that ads spray ceramic sealant with amplify as the drying aid and I'll revisit the ceramic option later unless I should get it done if I'm paying for paint correction. Should I skip the spray sealant for now and just pay the 1500 for the 5 year coating+ amplify as drying aid for maintenance washes along with everything else I'll buy. Or is the 5 year a gimmick? They offer a 2 year for 1000 including paint correction.

As I said earlier, the longevity claims are best case scenarios for garage kept cars that are washed often. With what you saying your car deals with I honestly wouldn’t bother with paint correcting unless you’re repainting it. Tree sap, bird bombs, and branches will kill a coating just as fast as not washing it often.

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[Free Spirit]

As I said earlier, the longevity claims are best case scenarios for garage kept cars that are washed often. With what you saying your car deals with I honestly wouldn’t bother with paint correcting unless you’re repainting it. Tree sap, bird bombs, and branches will kill a coating just as fast as not washing it often.

Passenger door is chipping paint on edge and it's going to spread I'm sure.
So the that needs paint work but the car also recently had the hood, both fenders, drivers door, and front bumper repainted. Hence me looking at ceramic coating. The back half is honestly in shit condition, the trunk is chipped on all 4 corners from rubbing it looks like but it doesn't rub rn. But should look okay with some touchup paint and a polisher. It's a daily driver not a show car so I don't need perfection but I want it to look nice ish or if just sell the pos. With the new paint is ceramic not worth it? I don't plan to sell the car anytime soon. I've put 2x it's value into repairing the various shit on it so it cost me maybe 40k and sells for maybe 16-18. Not worth losing all that money. Only got 63k on it rn. I can grab some photos of the back half TMR before work but I think alot would clean up nicely. As for sal and stuff I usually let it sit because I don't have any way to clean it without damage. Tried removing dried up sap before on my old hood before it was repainting a diff color and well pressured washer didn't cut it and scrubbing ended up with DEEP scratches in the hood from the poop turning into grit. Haven't touched poop since unless the touchless car wash removed it then it stays. I wanna change that

 

[Free Spirit]

As I said earlier, the longevity claims are best case scenarios for garage kept cars that are washed often. With what you saying your car deals with I honestly wouldn’t bother with paint correcting unless you’re repainting it. Tree sap, bird bombs, and branches will kill a coating just as fast as not washing it often.

Also, I do actively try to avoid be directly under the tree but bird poop and the likes still make their way from various places I park. I plan to maintain the cleaning pretty good, at least 1 time per month or whenever it gets extra dirty I'll hit it with a wash. Would it help to use a car cover or just keep the car from directly under the tree? Also how do people manage carwashes in the driveway? How to keep water from drying on the car and leaving spots. Should I be doing it after the sun sets but then it's hard to see? Honestly if it's not worth the cash to paint correct and ceramic coat it then I won't but I was planning to get it paint corrected even if I skipped the costing but I guess I can also skip that if I need to, I'll update with some photos TMR (it's so filthy it looks like a gray car not black after I drove it 200 miles lol camera doesn't pick up that fine dirt though). Just trying to make my life easier and keep the paint in good condition down the line (even the fresh paint has issues and it's never been touched, chipping somewhat near the bumper and fender connections, a couple fisheyes etc. hood also has some dents on the side from where the hood is creased from the shop pushing it down (side sits probably 1/2 higher than the fender with a massive gap, it's a POS iKon hood. Ikon is some Chinese junk).


Edit, to avoid missing the sale I think I'll just order the stuff I Know I'll need regardless of if I do or don't ceramic coat it I'll take off the ads spray ceramic sealant but keep the amplify and everything else. If I don't get it coated I can order the ads spray stuff later on but I'm the meantime I can get everything else and clean the car for once I'll probably still put some scratches in it but not nearly as many as my prior habits.

 

[MAGS1]

Just ordered a bottle of ADS Trim+. Next weekend I’ll be coating my door, fender, mirror and bumper as I will be 60 days out from when they were repaired and painted. Figured I might as well hit all the plastic trim too. Look forward to giving it a try.

 

[Evolvd]

Also, I do actively try to avoid be directly under the tree but bird poop and the likes still make their way from various places I park. I plan to maintain the cleaning pretty good, at least 1 time per month or whenever it gets extra dirty I'll hit it with a wash. Would it help to use a car cover or just keep the car from directly under the tree? Also how do people manage carwashes in the driveway? How to keep water from drying on the car and leaving spots. Should I be doing it after the sun sets but then it's hard to see? Honestly if it's not worth the cash to paint correct and ceramic coat it then I won't but I was planning to get it paint corrected even if I skipped the costing but I guess I can also skip that if I need to, I'll update with some photos TMR (it's so filthy it looks like a gray car not black after I drove it 200 miles lol camera doesn't pick up that fine dirt though). Just trying to make my life easier and keep the paint in good condition down the line (even the fresh paint has issues and it's never been touched, chipping somewhat near the bumper and fender connections, a couple fisheyes etc. hood also has some dents on the side from where the hood is creased from the shop pushing it down (side sits probably 1/2 higher than the fender with a massive gap, it's a POS iKon hood. Ikon is some Chinese junk).


Edit, to avoid missing the sale I think I'll just order the stuff I Know I'll need regardless of if I do or don't ceramic coat it I'll take off the ads spray ceramic sealant but keep the amplify and everything else. If I don't get it coated I can order the ads spray stuff later on but I'm the meantime I can get everything else and clean the car for once I'll probably still put some scratches in it but not nearly as many as my prior habits.

I wash my daily once a week, minimum. It also sits outside 24/7. From what you described I understand why you’re having so many issues with paint damage. Once a month won’t cut it or you’ll still be dealing with the same issues regardless of what products you buy.

 

[Free Spirit]

I wash my daily once a week, minimum. It also sits outside 24/7. From what you described I understand why you’re having so many issues with paint damage. Once a month won’t cut it or you’ll still be dealing with the same issues regardless of what products you buy.

That's a min thing. I'll be washing it much more frequently but it'll take me some time to get into the flow/setup. I just placed my orders so I have everything I need except for the spray sealant from Ads. If I order now I gotta pay shipping which sucks so I'll probably wash the pads and migs and microfibers once they arrive, hang dry and start sending messages out to ceramic coating and paint correction places as well as body shops to fix the door

 

[DFB5.0]

What dilution to use for the brake buster? I don't see any recommendation online for the rag company but they offer it for other cleaners. All I bring up on Google says 1:1 for already clean wheels/tires or just undiluted so wouldn't ads be more cost effective if it's as effective diluted 4:1?

For tyres, I use Brake Buster undiluted, its not very effective on tyres when diluted.

For wheels, I have it undiluted in a foam cannon, the foam cannon effectively dilutes it for me.

Thing is, it really drops back the cleaning ability when diluting Brake Buster. However, that may not be a bad thing if the wheels are well maintained. If you do want to dilute it for use in a pump action foamer, then accepted wisdom is a 10:1 dilution.

Unrelated to tire cleaners but I'm looking more into prices and stuff, ads amplify is actually cheaper atleast now with 20% off than the griots 3-1. Would it be better to use the ads amplify and completely forget the griots. Can the amplify be a standalone for gloss/shine while working as a drying aid and will it last awhile between washes?

I love Amplify and would buy it over the Griots in a heartbeat. You can use it as a standalone and a drying aid.

Amplify has no protection built in. It’s simply a drying aid/quick detailer. It leaves a very nice, slick surface but it doesn’t have much longevity. It’s one of those items you’d use on every wash to maintain slickness and prevent next week’s dirt and grime from clinging to the paint. If you want longer durability you’ll want a ceramic sealant spray.

Just a slight correction here, Amplify does in fact leave some protection (Si02) behind. If using as a drying aid, the longevity isn't really a problem.

"Crafted from a blend of unique polymers, silica resins, lubricating agents, and gloss enhancers that work in perfect harmony to deliver a frictionless protection that can last up to 2 months."

This is the ADS longevity hierarchy, all three have some element of Si02 in their formulas -

Ceramic Spray Sealant - 6 months
Amplify - 2 months
Adapt - 1 month

 

[skinnyb]

Just ordered a bottle of ADS Trim+. Next weekend I’ll be coating my door, fender, mirror and bumper as I will be 60 days out from when they were repaired and painted. Figured I might as well hit all the plastic trim too. Look forward to giving it a try.

LOVE trim so far. Put on my windshield cowl on my Mazda a few weeks ago and its holding up great. Semi restored some Jeep parts last weekend as well, it did a pretty good job. 2010 Jeep Wrangler that sat outside its whole life. Made a visible difference not easily picked up on camera...

 

[DFB5.0]

Spring orders, one from both Waxit and Detailing Shed................

The Carpro and KCx are replenishments from Waxit..................

The next lot is from Detailing Shed, again, replenishing a number of favourites. The Brake Buster and R2R would have to be my most used chemical products. Pilot is my favorite interior cleaner/detailer at the moment. I've also decided to try out the Optimum version of Glass Clean & Protect, I absolutely love the Opti-Coat version as its everything Carpro ClarifyPhobic should have been.

Optimum Opti Glass Clean & Protect - 504ml - Glass Coating - Detailing Shed

Amazon.com: OPTI-COAT– Opti-Glass Clean & Protect – Clean Glass Surfaces Without Streaking; Polymers Bond to Glass & Continue to Add Protection with Each Use; Boost Your Opti-Glass Pro Coating (16 Fl. Oz.) : Health & Household

The OG Tire Dressing is expensive, but you do get 946ml for the money, and a little goes a long way. I love the way it looks, its application feel (similar to ADS Tire+), and the scent is so addictive. Yes, I know scent is a non-functional aspect, but it plays a big part in the user experience..................it makes me happy.

Obsessed Garage Tire Dressing - Detailing Shed

Amazon.com: OBSESSED GARAGE - Tire Dressing | Long-Lasting Deep Satin Finish - 32 oz : Automotive

 

[Free Spirit]

For tyres, I use Brake Buster undiluted, its not very effective on tyres when diluted.

For wheels, I have it undiluted in a foam cannon, the foam cannon effectively dilutes it for me.

Thing is, it really drops back the cleaning ability when diluting Brake Buster. However, that may not be a bad thing if the wheels are well maintained. If you do want to dilute it for use in a pump action foamer, then accepted wisdom is a 10:1 dilution.



I love Amplify and would buy it over the Griots in a heartbeat. You can use it as a standalone and a drying aid.



Just a slight correction here, Amplify does in fact leave some protection (Si02) behind. If using as a drying aid, the longevity isn't really a problem.

"Crafted from a blend of unique polymers, silica resins, lubricating agents, and gloss enhancers that work in perfect harmony to deliver a frictionless protection that can last up to 2 months."

This is the ADS longevity hierarchy, all three have some element of Si02 in their formulas -

Ceramic Spray Sealant - 6 months
Amplify - 2 months
Adapt - 1 month

Good to know, I'll probably be fine the. If it lasts 2 months since I'll use it as a drying aid. Probably won't even need the spray sealant then right? What are you thoughts on professional ceramic coatings? Worth it or not? Seems like the best bargain is starting at 1k for 2 years and starting at 1500 for 5 year coating, not sure what brand coating that would be though I'm waiting for a reply from them

Edit, the one shop said they use IGL coatings. But they don't include maintenance washes or touchups in that price for 5 year or 2 year

 

[Free Spirit]

I wash my daily once a week, minimum. It also sits outside 24/7. From what you described I understand why you’re having so many issues with paint damage. Once a month won’t cut it or you’ll still be dealing with the same issues regardless of what products you buy.

Here's those photos I promised, some shitty paint that's runny/bubbly and chippy at the corner of the rear windshield but really not visible unless you go looking, scratch on the back above the rear plastic trim (I did that one myself when replacing the trim pieces around the exhaust tips one of the tabs didn't go in and bent up scratches it, then just a ton of shit where the edge of the trunk touches the bumper which I'm not concerned about and I think a polish will make it less visible and worst case I get a vinyl shop to cover most of it with a small piece of black vinyl after it's corrected and coated if it looks bad still (assuming vinyl can go over ceramic coat). Then just some scratches on the quarter panel which I think might blend out with paint correction but the body shop tried one of the shorter smaller ones and it didn't come out so should I have them put touchup paint in that one that I know is too deep and have the paint correction place finish smoothing it out or just leave it? The back half really isn't in as bad if condition as I thought. I'd say 6-7/10 for a black car.

Anyone else can also reply to this, but worth it or not to have it paint corrected and ceramic coated for roughly 1500 for 2-5 year coating no maintenance washes included unless I do the 2 year and up the cost to 1500? Or will amplify keep the costing in good order until it eventually wears off instead of paying the shop extra for reapplication each year or x amount of times per year?

 

[MAGS1]

Anyone else can also reply to this, but worth it or not to have it paint corrected and ceramic coated for roughly 1500 for 2-5 year coating no maintenance washes included unless I do the 2 year and up the cost to 1500? Or will amplify keep the costing in good order until it eventually wears off instead of paying the shop extra for reapplication each year or x amount of times per year?

If it was me, I’d spend the money for the paint correction. You’ll be amazed at how much better it looks afterwards.

As for the maintenance plan, that’s up to you. You can use something like Armour Detail Supply Beads as a coating topper every 3-6 months (probably 3 months if your car lives outside all the time). Easy to apply, just spray it on a panel while the car is still wet and then spray it off. That will help extend the life of the actual coating and will cost way less than the maintenance plan. Just an idea to throw out there, but I would 100% do the paint correction and coating

 

[larr12]

Yayyy

 

[Free Spirit]

If it was me, I’d spend the money for the paint correction. You’ll be amazed at how much better it looks afterwards.

As for the maintenance plan, that’s up to you. You can use something like Armour Detail Supply Beads as a coating topper every 3-6 months (probably 3 months if your car lives outside all the time). Easy to apply, just spray it on a panel while the car is still wet and then spray it off. That will help extend the life of the actual coating and will cost way less than the maintenance plan. Just an idea to throw out there, but I would 100% do the paint correction and coating

Wouldn't my drying aid if the ads amplify be fine as the topcoating? Given I wash at bare minimum once a month since the amplify I think lasts 1-2 months or something like that. Ideally I'd do it once every week or 2 weeks.

 

[Free Spirit]

Yayyy

Damnnnn wish I had the cash to drop on their quartz

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