Mr Incredible

I recently purchased my black 98 Z28 and, after a good waxing, have discovered all the rock chips, scrapes, and dings. I have no idea how to get all this left over wax debris out of the dings without scratching the paint.

Soft brush? Clay? Towel? Toothpicks?

There also appear to be some crazing/cracks. Is that paint trouble like the 3rd gen I had, or is it damage from something hitting the plastic (baseballs, hail, hands, etc.)?

Any tips, please?

Thanks in advance.

Firehawk526

iTrader: (1)

Have you tried a clean, old toothbrush (gently work it)?

Sounds dumb, but it works -- suggest use soft bristle, but that is what dentists recommend anyway for adults brushing.

ZaneO

Tooth brushes will scratch paint.

What wax did you use?

I would try a little bit of rubbing alcohol, but you'll need to rewax those areas after.

Firehawk526

iTrader: (1)

Yes, but how else can you get into those small indentations? I use one all the time when necessary, and have NEVER scratched the exterior surface.

If you take your time, and don't get stupid, it'll work, but not saying there aren't better methods. Just offered up one alternative for removing stubborn wax/polish buildup in tough locations.

ddelallata

iTrader: (2)

Try a toothpick. That should do the job.

White.Lightning

iTrader: (53)

Wash your car with dish soap to remove old wax, etc. Get a small jar of touch up paint and touch up the chips. Clay bar the car once the paint dries thoroughly. Zaino wax the car. It'll look amazing.

Andy

ZaneO

There are plenty of ways

BrandonSS

iTrader: (1)

I dont have any rock chips ... but why dont you post the ways since you have more?! Be helpful

sexyvic1

when i get wax around the moldings or lettering, i use a very soft toothbrush and warm water. never scratched or harmed anything on any of my cars.

chupr0kabra

iTrader: (10)

Most toothbrushes (teethbrush?) have nylon bristles which can scratch the paint. If you can't find a detailer's brush, the next best thing is to take some popsicle sticks and wrap them in a microfiber towel. I have also used a horsehair brush and some detailer's spray or water/car wash mixed in a spray bottle to get in all the nooks and crannies around the Z28 logo.


-Mike

Mr Incredible

Thanks, guys. My first black car was a 72 Satellite and I swore to all that's holy I'd never have a black car again. But I wound up getting a black 92 RS and eventually traded it for a black 98 Z28. Jeez!

Come to think of it, I've been married three times as well...

I must like pain or something.

I think the best bet would be a toothpick or trimmed popsickle stick, followed by touch up paint.

Now I have more confidence!

ZaneO

I've already tried to be helpful, and there have been several good suggestions so far.

- clay
- QD (ie. Final Inspection, Z6, Mist n Shine, etc.)
- alcohol
- microfiber towel
- wax and adhesive remover (ie. 3M, PrepSol, etc.)
- good car wash
- use a better wax that doesn't leave residue

etc.

Mr Incredible

I don't know of any wax that doesn't leave a residue, from 1976 to today. If there is one it's new to me (which may not be such a shocker). Maybe I just wasn't looking.

Would you be thinking of a sealer? I have no experience with sealers. I understand that Zaino is a sealer rather than a wax. I've looked at a few parts stores but haven't seen it. They usually have the Meguire's stuff, and some others, but those appear to be waxes.

ZaneO

Zaino is a sealant...it can't be bought in stores, but they have an online store and tons of distributors.

Most high quality waxes will not leave a chalky residue (ie. S100/P21s, Pinnacle, etc.) Waxes and sealants are made to be applied very thinly.

Which wax did you use?