I have been reading more and more than the current, in vogue, way to wax is to got with synthetic first, followed by carauba. See below ... basically its says

claybar
polish
glaze
carnauba

http://www.properautocare.com/crsishin3st.html

thoughts from the experts?

 

That's an informative link for sure - new to me, and the How-To photos don't leave out (m)any steps.

I think the dual action polishers are recommended more around here in part because of the gentleness factor - plus, it's tougher to screw up a job with a PCDA, and (hopefully) not many of us neophytes have had to treat so many deep-ish scratches, that we become "experts" as a result. I dunno.

I have the opportunity to try out these "techniques" on a minivan before my MINI goes under the knife - that's a good thing.

Side Comment: the finish on my '02 Caravan SE is freakin' tough! Abuse, neglect, nothing bothers it much (but there ARE several "opportunities" present, believe me).

The basic steps and principles that your link guy talks about are the same as current "conventional wisdom". Here I'm thinking about the gradual reduction in abrasive-ness, and finishing out with polish and then protection of some kind. Also, he's being realistic, not promising miracles to the polish-by-hand crowd (which includes me).

I suppose it's bravery that makes him say a rotary polisher can hands down do a better job than a PCDA. I bet not everyone will be as skilled in the use of the rotary polisher as he obviously is. The PCDA (that I have yet to buy) might take me a little longer to finish, but if I'm having a good time, it's time well-spent, right?

Anyway, just a few thoughts on the ProperAutoCare link... I think he has a good point when he says "If you prepare the paint properly, your car will look stunning regardless of the wax or sealant you end up using!"

Tatt