Well I've painstakingly spent all afternoon bringing my poor MINI back to better condition after neglecting her for far too long.

It was washed, clayed, polished (by hand...this is why I say painstakingly above), and then I've applied Epic. While I wait for it to cure until tomorrow afternoon, I'm debating what I should use as my LSP. Figured asking the other crazed MINI fans here would elicit some good responses.

Currently, these are my options:
1) Prima Banana Gloss
2) Pinnacle Signature Series II Paste Wax
3) Pinnacle Sovereign Spray Wax
4) Chemical Guys Butter Wet Wax

I think I also have some lousy options that aren't even worth it or won't make sense on top of the polymer based Epic, so I'm not even considering them which include Turtle wax spray wax (which is what I use for the wheels...might not even be good enough for that duty), some zymol cleaner wax which doesn't make sense at this point, and NXT paste wax.

So I welcome any input. As of now, I'm leaning towards the Banana Gloss to keep it all in the family. Thoughts?

 

Banana Gloss works for me.

 

I use Banana Gloss, then Hydro. I like to stick to the same brands as well.

Post some pics!

 

I have heard to put another coat of Epic before anything else.
You don't actually get 2 coats, but a second application ensures that you have good coverage and will catch any areas that you missed or got very thin coverage the first time.
Just what you wanted to hear, I know.

I am a real fan of Prima, especially Epic and the 3 Hydro products.
I haven't used Banana Gloss yet, but people sure do seem to like it.

 

I just don't get it. Why don't you consider Epic as the LSP? Why feel the need to top it with anything?

These are all examples of Epic as the LSP.

This 328 wasn't even close to flawless but it looks amazing with just Prima products.






Black Roush Mustang was totally hacked up and polished to perfection


Black Audi A3 polished to perfection


1933 Ford Roadster polished to perfection and finished with Prima Epic


Would any of these look better with a topping? These pictures don't even convey the true WOW factor when seeing them in person. That's what all of our customers say.

I would say, prep the paint right, stick with Prima, refine your techniques. Use Prima Banana Gloss if you can see the difference between the carnauba glow and a synthetic sealant or if you just must use a carnauba due to old habits.

Richard

 

I love Banana Gloss (which I'll have to thank Richard for the recommendation on). Easiest thing I've ever used. Works in the sun, flash cures and still gives you a decent bit of carnauba warmth.

Richard, thanks for the advice. The pictures definitely have me re-thinking my thought process. I do really love the carnauba warmth, which is really my reason for topping off Epic.

 

I love Epic, but Hydro Seal is about to take it's place in my detailing kit.
My MINI is Pepper White and the Hydro products make her look amazing.

I have begun to use Hydro Seal on my husband's 10 year old silver Avalon. It has never been properly waxed and only washed on the cheapest setting at gas station auto wash machines. There are lots of problems with the finish, but it looks better I thought possible. He even noticed how much his car shines. This same man hasn't noticed that Little Wing's silver bonnet stripes are now black.

 

Hydro Seal is definitely a strong contender as an Epic replacement. Detailing cars is always about making improvements. It's the relative difference that matters. Even if the finish isn't perfect, it can always be improved with a little technique and Prima certainly makes it possible for anyone at any level of detailing expertise take their finish to a higher level.

re: black bonnet stripes
Hahah nice....!

Richard