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In Reply to: Seeking detailing advice ......... posted by Derek P on June 17, 2001 at 12:01:37:
A couple of detailing points from my experience. 1) Newspaper isn't the best anymore for windows. The reason is that modern newsprint inks are more water soluble than they used to be (environmentalists again) and you can easily leave some residue on the windows. There are a few good paper-type non-lint towels you can buy (the blue ones or 'Kimwipes' from Kimberly Clark), or I use a clean cotton terri towel.
2) As others said, the only thing that you should use on a car exterior is 100% cotton. Beware of cotton cloths, like diapers, that have polyester seam threads. Anything but cotton will leave swirl marks (or scratches). I usually buy the white cotton shop towels from Costco, use 'em and toss 'em.
3) If you really want to clean your leather, go to a Saddlery and by some good saddle soap. It's a lot of work, but will clean up most anything. You'll also find other leather care products there that you don't find at the automotive store (and the equestrian crowd has been sitting in leather seats a lot longer than we have :-).
4) I agree as well that Griot's Speed Shine (shut up, Carl!!) or Mequires 5 Minute Detailer or similar are the best way to remove dust. The "California Dusters" are cotton impregnated (IIRC) with a silicone based tackifier. As we should all know by now, silicone is not really good for anything but giving a shiny appearance or in this case picking/rubbing the dirt around. It certainly isn't any good for plastic, rubber, wax, etc.
I used to be fanatical about taking care of the beast, but now I'm just saving up for a new paint job (!).
There is a very neat book, probably out of print these days, by Porsche Club writer Henry Watts. Titled "Car Beautiful" (Loki Press, 1987) with excellent tips on detailing, from minimalist to concours. If available, it's probably less than $10 and is a nice addition to the bookshelf.
Anyway, that's my two cents (American)
SRC ;-)
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