I looked high and low for Z-2 removal but all I found was that Dawn does not remove Z-2.

Two weeks ago I Zainoed my MINI for the first time. Two coats of Z-2. During the residue removal, I noticed some very fine scratches on the bonnet and roof. I also noticed a long one on the passenger side. As BradB describes them, they're the kind you only see in just the right light. I'm guessing that they're probably from the microfiber I'm was using or from the prep after my dealer service visits.

So my question is:

Do I strip/remove the Z-2 and start over on the parts that I see the scratches? I'd follow with Sonus SFX clay, then apply some Sonus Paintwork Cleanser or Sonus SFX-2 Enhance (depending on the scratch severity). Next would be a couple of coats of Z-5 followed lastly by Z-2.

Or do I wait and live with the scratches till spring? I just hate seeing them every time I walk past my MINI in the garage

If I do strip the Z-2, how? Will the Paintwork Cleanser do it?

I've got a large order ready to go over at autopia with many Sonus Der Wunder Polishing Towels and other supplies. So this time, I'm not going to let the microfiber get me!

 

from what I understand, Dawn removes Zaino.

 

Dawn is hard on Zaino (something I just learned a week or so ago from the Zaino website), but doesn't remove it (complete removal).

Don't worry about the Zaino that is on your car. There is no need to strip it before starting your scratch removal process. Your claybar will physically remove the Zaino and it won't hurt anything in your scratch removal process. Your move to SFX 2 and then the paintwork cleanser sounds good. I did this exact process a few weeks ago on a 2005 black MINI and had great results removing the scratches that a buffer jockey had put into the bonnet. (I used a PCDA w/ Sonus foam pads)

The polishes will finish off any Zaino that the claybar missed, so that area of your car will be unprotected. Coat again w/ Zaino as soon as you are satisfied w/ your swirl removal process.

Good luck!

 

I usually use simplegreen. Takes it right off. Dawn should work too. Always just sprinkle some water on the area, and the lack of beading should immediately show where it's been removed.

 

I second agranger's process. Yes, the paint cleanser will remove it. Claybar can degrade a Zaino finish but is not efficient in removing it. Just use your compounds/swirl removers and you will remove the Zaino as you remedy the scratches.

 

[QUOTE=paulr]I looked high and low for Z-2 removal but all I found was that Dawn does not remove Z-2.

Zaino Z-PC polish will remove Z-2.

 

Thanks everyone for the comments! I placed my orders and should have everything this week.