From those who use Meguiar’s NXT Generation Tech Wax what is the advantages/disadvantage of using the liquid vs. paste forms?

Is the NXT Generation Spray Wax the same as the paste and liquid forms, or better used over a coat of one of the other two?

I’m prepping for winter. Is one coating enough, or should I put a second coat on? Use the liquid or paste or spray or NXT Generation Speed Detailer?

Thanks in advance,

Rollin

 

I'm not the expert Octaneguy is. Hopefully he will come to the rescue.
But in the mean time I will tell you what I have been doing to prep for winter.

Washed, clayed, cleaner wax, swirl remover #2, one coat of NXT. That was 2 weeks ago. Today another coat of NXT on the bonnet and boot, tomorrow, another coat on the whole car, all buffed with my new polisher.

If the weather holds for another week, one more coat of NXT.

Dressed the black trim to weeks ago, going to do it again tomorrow.

Clayed and waxed the windshield today also.

Going to just keep at it as long as the weather holds

 

Thanks Lot15!

Ok here we go.

First congrats on choosing NXT! Chemically there is no difference in protection over the paste versus liquid. That is, they are both still synthetic waxes that require only a very thin layer to do its job. While I've been an NXT Tech Wax liquid fan for the past 1-1/2 years, I've begun using the paste wax as an extra layer, especially on the bonnet. It goes on easy, and can be buffed on and off if desired. If you ask the Meguiar's people, they will say it's a matter of preference. Some people like paste, others like liquid.

A good waxing should last you anywhere from 1 to 3 months. Of course climate, the number of times you rub the paint--as in quick detailing daily, will affect the longevity. I'd say Lot15's advice is reasonable especially considering that he enjoys doing it. Here in California, where our winters consist only of lots of rain, and moderate temperatures, monthly waxing is sufficient.

The Spray Wax is a booster. It's not the same as the paste/liquid. It's meant to be used in between waxing. So lets say you put on one or two coats of Tech Wax. If you feel like topping the protection in a week or two, spray some Booster Wax on a MF towel, wipe it on, let it dry to a thin film, wipe it off. Now you're good to go for several more weeks. All without having to rewax your car. However if your car doesn't already have a good coating of NXT, starting with the booster wax won't do much good--since it's designed to enhance the protection of the wax that's still on your car.

NXT Speed Detailer is a product just like the maroon bottle Quik Detailer. It's used as a daily detailing spray to remove light dust on the paint. Using it won't hurt the wax protection but it's not enhancing it either--rather it helps shine it up and keep your cars protected paint looking great.

So for winter protection, put on atleast 2 good coats of Tech Wax either liquid or paste. While NXT doesn't layer, applying more than 1 coat ensures completely even coverage on areas you may have missed.

I'm working on a new detailing website for MINI Cooper Owners, featuring the NXT products. It shows what a typical clear coat scratch may look like--as in what's fixable by a detailer, and what's not. Also shows before and afters, and case studies of various MINI's I've worked on. Still have a lot of work, but I expect it to be completed this week.

http://www.MINiniM.com

NXT is a great product line. Learn it well and it will reward you!

Some recent NXT Tech Wax examples

 

I was debating between NXT and Zaino and I think for right now I am going the NXT path. I want to prep my Mini for the winter (and make her shiny) What is the shopping list of items to get. I have read a lot of posts on this and there is a bunch of this and that, and I want to make sure I do this right (have never actually waxed a car before). So if I am using mequiar wax, should I use the soap as well?
(not in application order - just train of thought)
Clay bar
NXT car wash
NXT Tech wax (pretty sure I'll have an easier time with the liquid form)
NXT Speed detailer (for touch ups)
microfiber towels
window cleaner/repellant (rain-X or equivalent)
Had mothers wheel cleaner Recommend (want to keep my white wheels white)
Mequiars exterior trim detailer

Do I really need special applicators for the liquid wax? (please don't get mean - I just dont know better)

I just want to make sure I get everything I need in one trip or order. This is a month old mini if that makes any difference. I also have a scratch in the clear coat from what looks like someone brushing up against the car, and I was told of a 3 step product to fix it, I thought i was meguiars, but it may have been from mothers. I am sure it starting with an M. Any ideas on what is a good product to do that while compatable with the NXT stuff.

Thanks!!!!

 

I would guess staying with the same product line is the best way to go.

As to your white wheels,BMW makes a good cleaner, your dealer should have it. Just make sure you rince it off really well with water. You can also use a dilutted mixture of simple green, and water.

Waxing your wheels is the best way to keep them clean. I use Nu-tone wax on them. I just have to use soap and water to keep them clean.

The NXT soap is the way to go, will not strip the NXT wax, and is a concentrate, so it will last a long time.

I find using a good auto glass cleaner, clay baring, then waxing the glass works the best.

When I took this picture last spring, my wheels had about 35k miles on them

 

but i just tried some meguiars gold class liquid car wax for the heck of it...

i will try to get a sealant on the car before winter, i am thinking about Klasse High Gloss Sealant Glaze.

 

i am looking for something that will re-blacken the trim without adding gloss or shine, or greasy residue that will attract dirt.


i just want something that will dry a flat black uniform color for exterior trim.

any suggestions?

thanks!

 

Good answer Lot15,

Let me add a few more things:

1.) Definitely go with NXT Car Wash--big jug will last forever
2.) Get atleast one, maybe two, 5 gallon buckets
3.) Get a Grit Guard
http://www.gritguard.com/catalog/pro...909d95eeb2d0a1

4.) For wheel cleaning, I just use NXT Tech Wax once in a long while, I use Quik Detailer to wipe off brake dust. If I don't let dust sit for more than a few days, it wipes off easily--even if it's turned to "mud" from the rains. The QD replenishes the slick feeling on the wheels so wiping them off is easy. I have the OEM white 5 Stars--though Lot15's holies look spectacular.

5.) For applicators--if you're doing this by hand, get some of the foam applicators. While you don't "have" to use these pads, they are convenient, cheap, and easy to use.

http://www.meguiars.com/?specialized...Applicator-Pad

Actually if you want to get it all in one place, you can get the Grit Guard for the same price from Meguiars here:
http://www.meguiars.com/?home-cleani...t-Guard-Insert

6.) Minor clear coat scratches can be removed with Meguiar's ScratchX
http://www.meguiars.com/?auto-paint-cleaners/ScratchX

One step process. Just squirt it on, rub vigorously back and forth with foam applicator pad--around 20 passes. White paste will turn clear once it's been worked in well enough. Diminishing abrasives need to be broken down, so that's why you stop after it turns clear. You may need to do this 3 or 4 or more times before the scratch is removed. Using a Crosshatch pattern on subsequent passes ensures even coverage. Note that you don't let ScratchX dry. You rub it until it turns clear, then wipe it off. Squirt some more, and continue--trust me, if you aren't sweating, and your fingers don't feel like they are going to fall off, you aren't using the product right.

Hope that helps!

Richard

 

I get this question all the time. I use this product.
http://www.meguiars.com/?tire-care/N...e-Tire-Coating


Despite the name--on tires it leaves a shiny look. On plastic trim, it makes it dark, but stays matte. I spray it on after the car has been detailed, then wipe off any excess with a MF towel. If it gets on the paint, a MF towel with some NXT Speed Detailer will take it right off.

I also use this product

http://www.meguiars.com/?pro-vinyl-r...m-Dressing-Gel


which is essentially the same as the consumer version

http://www.meguiars.com/?car-trim-mo...-Trim-Detailer


All of these will restore the black plastic trim.

I used Insane Shine on this trim


and on this


It's especially good when your trim starts like this

 

Can someone elaborate on how you clay and wax a windshield?

Thanks

 

Ok, I will

I use soapy water and clay the glass with that. I save clay from doing the body of the car. Really pulls the grit out of the pitts that our soft windsheilds are prone to, and gets the glass very clean.

Then I rince that off with water, dry the glass with a micro towel.

I put a light layer of wax on the glass, and let it sit for longer than I do on painted surfaces. Then I wipe it of with a towel, not hard, just so there are no heavy areas of wax, then buff. Now that I have a PC buffer, this part went way faster and I got great results.

It rained today, and the water just beaded up, and the wipers did not streak at all, and I did not have to use them as much on the highway.

In the winter, snow and ice do not stick as bad either.

The rain-x type products worry me with what they might do to the paint surface.

 

That's interesting. I've never waxed my windshield before. I've clayed it, but not waxed it. RainX in the disposable towel form is nice--makes it easy to apply, but it doesn't last long.

Thanks!

Richard

 

I figure if it lasts on the paint, it will last on the glass. Been doing it all summer, works good for me

 

Thank you for the help...I feel like I can do a good job on my new Mini.

So from reading this thread, I have revamped the list.
Quik Clay Detailing System - G1116
NXT car wash - G12664
NXT Tech wax, liquid - G12718
NXT Speed detailer - G13224
NXT Tech Protect - G12924
ScratchX - G10307
NXT instant shine Tire - G13115
NXT spray wax - G12824 (touch ups)
Wheels: I'll try the tech wax first, and if that doesn't work, I'll get some wheel cleaner when I go the dealer.
Window: I'll give the claying and waxing a shot, I have heard of it before.
microfiber towels (have some - will buy some more)
multiple buckets (I have)
Grit guard - G408
Applicator pads - X3070

 

Doesn't the trim go back to its dirty form after rain or something?
cause I used one of Meg's rubber plastic protectant and trims went whity dirty after rain

 

In a word, NO

 

Thanks LOT, I am going to try this on the egg next time we wax

 

Nope. It's a protectant--you will need to reapply it every once in a while. Lasts atleast several weeks for me. I can touch up anytime if needed.

Remember to clean the trim first--it'll be dirty to begin with---once it's clean, and not making your hands or towels black, then apply the protectant over the bare plastic.

If the trim is white, you need to determine if that's from wax residue or something else. Just about any wax will make the plastic trim turn white. I use a MF towel and some rubbing alcohol. Rub the trim briskly, the white residue comes off. Now dress it with Insane Shine, and it will stay black. Even gasoline will make your trim turn white.

Anything that you apply wet to your plastic will attract dust. So after you've let the Insane Shine soak on your plastic for a few minutes, be sure to wipe it with a rag or towel to remove any excess that may pick up dust.

Richard

 

Peanut oil or peanut butter are the best way to deal with white wax residue. Oil leaves the finish smooth and slightly shiny. Haven't tried peanut butter.

I am in the process of switching from NXT to Zaino. Its a lot more expensive, but I think it is also a little better. Both are very nice, however.

 

While a lot of people say this, I have to disagree about it being the "best way". I'd rather remove it, then treat the trim with a dressing. Rubbing alcohol on a MF towel removes white residue fast and easy.

To each is own however--much like the NXT/Zaino debate.

 

Thanks a lot to all who have left so much information to my questions. This is a great community.
I will have to get a second coat of wax on this weekend. I really liked how all the NXT products easily wiped off from areas they did not belong on.

Based on db's recommendation on a whiteroofradio.com podcast, and after a call to the Meguiar’s help line to confirm it, I used the NXT TechProtect on the exterior plastic and it looks good – this is on a Honda Element and there is a lot of exterior plastic. Any thoughts OctaneGuy, or others familiar with this vs. the Insane Shine?

Also, can you elaborate on pros or cons to the liquid vs. paste forms of wax – why did you switch?

Sagworks,
Since I just gathered up everything and used it for the first time recently here is what I found;
I was not able to find everything in one place locally and I did not want to wait for mail order or pay more. Kmart was the only place I could find the NXT soap. I noticed Wal-Mart has most of the NXT products and was the cheapest, but I prefer not to shop there so I kept looking. AutoZone had the wax and TechProtect and some of the other products in the line. I also bought Clay Magic detailing clay w/ Clay Lube ($10) at AutoZone as I had read posts where some people did not like the Meguiar’s clay. I did not chose the Mothers Clay Bar ($16) as it had extra stuff in the box that I did not want for the extra $$$.
I also got Stoner Invisible Glass, also based on the db & Todd podcast #5 (that is what they were called before becoming White Roof Radio) and it worked great on the windows. However, don’t use paper towels like they mention – left lint.

I used dish soap to remove any old wax as my first step for this time only.

From the thread stickied at the top of this forum I thought this was useful;
“BradB: I recommend that you cut your claybar into several pieces and knead into silver dollar size wafers about 3/16” thick. Use one side until visibly dirty. Flip over and use second side. Then throw away. You will get better results and avoid scratching from the clay itself if you use an auto shampoo as a lubricant. This is important. You get best results when you rub in back and forth motions only. (In fact, everything….washing mitt, drying towel, claying strokes, should be front-aft motions on car. This consistency will help optics regarding micro-marring and scratches/swirls) (Note from agranger: I keep my ‘spent’ clay in a sealed container… It’s great for polishing glass.”

Also, “Rinse the mitt frequently in the soapy water. Every few panels put your hose inside the mitt and rinse out, letting the discard water drip onto the ground. Note from BradB: I rinse the mitt after virtually every pass or two on the car. I NEVER stick the mitt back in the soap bucket without rinsing. And I never go more than three passes without re-soaping. Lubrication is the key to avoiding swirls.”

 

IMO, NXT TechProtectant in the spray form offers the same results as using Insane Shine. It used to be my suggestion to use Tech Protectant on the trim and Insane Shine on the tires, but after awhile, I realized that it was much simpler to use one product for both since invariably there will be overspray. So yep, use either one.

re: Liquid vs Paste
It's a preference thing. I still use liquid with my PC buffer, but I do like to give a final coat of wax with paste by hand. I don't do this everytime I wax. I just like to do it to feel that I've got a little more wax on than I get with liquid, but I really think it's all in my mind since it's the same amount of wax left behind once you wipe it off, whether applied in paste or liquid form.

re: Purchasing
I either purchase directly from Meguiars.com or from Autozone or Pepboys.

re: Meguiar's Quik Clay System
A few years ago, they had an older formulation for the clay. All of those bars have been taken off the shelf, for atleast the last year. The bar should be grey. If you open it and find its yellow or has a hard crust/shell, similar to the wax on a chunk of cheese, just return it to the store, or call Meguiar's Customer Care and they will send you a new one. Otherwise, there is no reason not to use the Meguiar's brand of clay.

re: Stoners Invisible Glass
That used to be my favorite as well, but now I prefer NXT Glass Cleaner. It's non aerosol, doesn't streak, and cleans really well. After a long day of driving, and having a windshield coated with bug guts, a quick spray, and soaking of around 15 seconds, required only a quick wipe off to remove all the guts without any extra effort. Like most Meguiar's products, you spray it on, wipe it off, then buff it with another clean side of a towel--don't try to wipe/buff with the same side, otherwise it will seem like it's not getting cleaned.




[QUOTE=Rollin]

Based on db's recommendation on a whiteroofradio.com podcast, and after a call to the Meguiar’s help line to confirm it, I used the NXT TechProtect on the exterior plastic and it looks good – this is on a Honda Element and there is a lot of exterior plastic. Any thoughts OctaneGuy, or others familiar with this vs. the Insane Shine?

Also, can you elaborate on pros or cons to the liquid vs. paste forms of wax – why did you switch?

Sagworks,
Since I just gathered up everything and used it for the first time recently here is what I found;
I was not able to find everything in one place locally and I did not want to wait for mail order or pay more. Kmart was the only place I could find the NXT soap. I noticed Wal-Mart has most of the NXT products and was the QUOTE]

 

Ok, My winter prepping will start tomm, and I've made a basic checklist to follow.

Painted Surface
-Thorough wash (NXT wash)
-Claybar (not sure which brand)
-At least 2 coats of wax (Gold class paste)
Trim
-Vinylex
Windows
-Claybar (not sure which brand)
-Rain-X?
Wheels and Tires
-Wax (Gold class paste)
-Tires (Gold Class Endurance high gloss)



I'm just not sure which claybar to go with.. But, any other things I should add to my list??

 

This past Sunday I applied my 3rd coat of NXT, 1st coat was NXT Tech Wax, 2nd and 3rd coat was NXT spray wax. I was at the craft shop on base and there must have been 4 or 5 people standing around for a bit watching me. All I heard was comments like...Wow!....Looks nice....Good Shine....what wax is that? I said thanks and showed em the product. It gives a really deep, glossy shine. NOTE: I also use NXT car wash and always, always use MF towels. MF towel kits can be bought thru AutoGeek.

 

The NXT/Zaino debate is definitely a 'to each his own' subject, particularly given the huge cost premium and quirky use instructions for Zaino. I think it looks better, but I have no problem at all with someone saying it is not worth the cost and trouble.

Peanut oil is a different jar entirely, however. I have used a lot of "dressings" on wax residues over the years, and the question always seemed to boil down to which one covered up the problem the longest. With peanut oil, by contrast, the white residue has never re-appeared. In my book, that means it is doing something to break down the wax residue, or at least to convert it to something that isn't white. I think there must be some sort of chemical reaction taking place. If that is so, it is not a dressing, it is a cleaner.