Getting ready to start my Fall detailing in another week or so. Can I put the Black Wow on now, before the Dawn wash to strip the wax or will the Dawn strip the Black Wow too?

I know it is suggested to Black Wow before you wash, but a Dawn wash could be a different story.

 

Dawn is pretty harsh. I don't think it will strip BW, but I don't make a habit of washing my MINI with Dawn either, so I can't say for sure. I'd say..go ahead and put on the BW.

Btw, what wax are you planning on stripping? Dawn won't strip a synthetic..just natural carnauba waxes.

Richard

 

I am stripping Epic and Banana Gloss, or at least I was trying to.
I would usually:
Dawn wash
Clay
Polish if needed
Wash
Wax

How should I prep my surface for new wax? I can't believe I don't know this.
Thank you Octane Guy. You are a great resource.

 

There really is no need to "strip" away the same brand of wax...it's important if you are switching brands. If you are using a machine polisher, it also isn't necessary. Personally, if I wanted to remove a synthetic wax, just do an IPA wipe down...get some 91% alcohol and either do 50/50 water & IPA or full strength---up to you...and it'll take everything off safely.

I would just wash, clay, polish, wax....not sure why Wash is so far down the list for you.

Richard

 

I only use dawn if going for the full monty (dawn wash, claybar, car wash, polish, paint sealant, wax)

If you are just applying a top coat of wax, then then the other steps aren't really necessary. Just a very good cleaning and claybar is sufficient.

Regarding Black Wow, I've switched to Poor Boys Trim Restorer. Goes on easier and coverage is more consistent.

But when it comes to cleaning rituals, everyone will have an opinion and product suggestion. The most important tip I can give is to claybar every time before using any type of polish/wax/sealant, otherwise you will swirl the finish.

 

So, if I have this right...

I do need to Dawn wash to get the Carnuba in the Banana Gloss off before I clay (and later apply Epic).

I do not need to wash after clay and polish before the application of Epic. I will gladly leave this step out. I just thought that I would have some polish residue that I'd want to get off the car before the wax application.

Thanks for the advice.

 

FWIW, I do a quick wash after polish to get off any remaining residue, but the need for this extra step may depend on your type of polish and technique.