2quik

Can using a polishing compound, or swirl mark remover. remove surface contaminants? Or must a clay bar be used?.... I had rough surface, but used a porter cable and some polishing compound, then it was all nice and smooth.

awiner

Polishing compound will remove contaminates as well.

2quik

will color x by mcguiars do the trick? im not to fond of using a clay bar, so im lookimg for alternates

TOGWT

~One man’s opinion / observations ~

Detailing clay is used for the removal of imbedded debris; a pre-wax cleaner (i.e. ColorX) is a surface paint cleaner. They are formulated for very different jobs and are not interchangeable

~Hope this helps~

Experience unshared; is knowledge wasted…/

justadumbarchitect *so I question everything*

awiner

Correct. If it is surface contaminants you wish to remove, use a clay bar. Using a polishing compound will work, but why remove/thin some of your clear coat with it to accomplish this ? A clay bar and some lube/soapy water is the easiest way to accomplish the task at hand.

2quik

thanx guys, Ok so now which clay bar do u recommend?

RJC

Whatever clay bar you choose, use it with detail spray for best results not soapy water. I've used the kit from Mother's works great and comes with a bottle of spray.

awiner

Clay is pretty much the same accross the board. You should be fine with whatever brand you can get. Just make sure as stated above to use a lubricant and keep the area your working on slick.

Kar don

excellent points, i prefer the pinnacle, clay magic, and zaino clay. Mothers is ok, meguiars i dislike. The detail spray usually works best, car wash soap and water is cheaper but it can quickly degrade the clay. Polishing using a swirl mark remover to remove surface contaimenents? I dont think thats too smart. Your pad will pick up this specs of crap and could redeposit them in your paint or cause marring or swirling. I would clay and THEN polish, this works better for me.