whats this "clay" and "scratch X" i keep hearing about????????
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I'm a novice when it comes to this so correct me if i'm wrong people.
Clay - essentially a bar of clay. You will need some "lube" often known or referred to as "quick detailer". Meguirs do a starter kit with everything you need and for a straight of the shelf frist time novice buy i think most people will agree its a good kit.
The clay is rubbed on the surface of the paint work after the car is cleaned and along with the lube it removes bonded on contaminants such as tar spots, fall out (from train tracks) and general crap thats in the air. It will leave your paint work with a glass like finish (will look better than new) once completed you can apply polish, wax, sealents etc etc. When you use it at frist it will feel rough on teh paintwork, as you continue to rub the motion will become smoother, when it glides along the paint your done.
Scratch X - a modern day T-Cut if you like. Its has a slightly harsh compond to use on those light scratches to
help remove them. It can will a whole lot of elbow greese by used to remove swirl marks. I believe someone on this forum or one of teh detailing ones gave it a go, its very hard work but can be done. I only use this in concentrated areas, I don't do the whole car or even a whole panel.
Best advice just browse through this forum and some of the detailing forums that can be found on the links from here. Just have a look, look at the products on manafacture websites and make up your own mind.
The first time I used clay I was apprehensive but followed the instructions and couldn't believe the results.
Hope this helps
Steve