Remove Wax Before Sealant?

[zdharris]

So I'm new to sealant, I've never used it before, but want to try on my new car. I have been washing and waxing my car on a regular basis since I've had it. So before I try to apply the sealant, wash, decontamination, then sealant? Or am I missing a step and need to do something to remove any old wax? Or will the Iron X take care of that? I didn't really want to polish my car unless I had to since I don't have a buffer and it would all be by hand, but if that's what it takes, it'll get done.

[wdmaccord]

You might get some marring when you clay (assuming you are including that in your decon step...if not, you should) depending on the paint, which would mean you might want to polish. Consider purchasing a random orbital polisher.

[KBsToy]

Wash, Iron X , clay, polish, seal. A DA should be in your future if you can afford one.

[Desertnate]

I'd have to agree.

A polish or at least a paint cleaner of some sort will make sure all the old protestant is gone. As mentioned, the polish will take car of any marring from the clay.

If you have the time and desire to go with a sealant and not an AIO, it's always worth it to at least hit the vehicle with a light polish just to spruce things up a bit.

[zdharris]

Thanks for the replies. A friend of mine has a DA I could use if I need it. I wasn't planning on using clay because I didn't know I would have to, so thanks for that. I'll be sure to include that when I do it.

[zdharris]

Polishing has just always scared me, especially on my brand new car, because I didn't want to harm the clear coat or anything. I know it's not like it used to be on older cars, so I try to take as good of care of it as I can. But this is my saturday car really, so I want it to be protected while it sits, and able to put a nice wash on it and it look good when I want to take it out.

[zdharris]

In your opinion, would it be better to go with an AIO instead of the sealant? I don't mind the prep work or the time, I want it done right. Just haven't done it before, so I need guidance. Haha

[Desertnate]

If you want to "do it right" and have no problem with the time, use a polish and a DA polisher.

A DA polisher and a good polish is pretty low risk and high reward. Watch a lot of the video's here and start up with the lightest polish that does the job. After you try it the first time you'll wonder why you didn't try it out earlier.

[zdharris]

Sounds good. Thanks for the info Desertnate. I'll be trying a polish and paint sealant as soon as this weather decides to break.

[rlmccarty2000]

If buffing scares you some practice with a polisher and an AOI like Wolfgangs. Use a soft pad and take your time. You will get a fantastic finish with very little risk.