Opti gloss coat issues.

**Newdetailer1** · 06-08-2017, 07:23 AM

Not sure if I can walk away from the Menzerna SF 4500 for my follow up after a compound. I know we are supposed to be flexible with our products but I've got such a comfortable (working) system with the Menzerna line. I'm also ok with Megs 101 and 205. So in addition to using less product who else makes a really good ceramic coat prep? I see someone mention Panel Wipe? Is there any others that people have had success? Should I try my own stronger mix of diluted alcohol? Also, does anyone know where I can get more of the blue pads that come with the kit? Thanks

**jkrig** · 06-08-2017, 09:20 AM

The blue foam applicator that comes with it is re-usable and reversable, (and the one I prefer) after a use I typically spay mine with APC or ONR at Quick Detailer dilution then thoroughly rinse with water. Per Optimum a 15% IPA prep wipe is fine.....but if you want to reduce the potential for marring during IPA prep wipe Optimum has Paint Prep....

**WillSports3** · 06-08-2017, 09:43 AM

With coatings, I would generally go with manufacturer recommendations just because their application process will always be more finicky then wax or sealants, especially because of the molecular level bonding behind them. That being said, I would suggest I'd you like menzerna 4500, to really saturate each panel with paint prep and wipe it off more then once to make sure you get everything before you coat, and use less on each panel.

**Newdetailer1** · 06-09-2017, 06:57 AM

Sounds good guys, I'll start using less product and do a 2nd prep wipe down and see how it goes. Thanks again!

**antti@561detailing** · 06-09-2017, 08:23 AM

Menzerna is oily, most likely you didn't get it off the paint...
I use bodyshop wax oil grease removers.
None of the other stuff is really strong enough.
Also, I learned this from Fiuza Detailing...
once done with panel, take a new towel and run your DA at speed 4 over the paint...this will clean it more...
also check your wiping with flash light...you will see right away when you have oil residue left behind.
If you like using Menzerna, buy the new Jescar Micropolish.
It is better than Menzerna 4000 or 4500, but less oily.
And it comes from same company...

**Newdetailer1** · 06-09-2017, 09:50 AM

That was going to be the next question...if there is a finishing polish that's on par with Menzerna that has less oils in it? I agree that the SF has a lot of oils but it produces such a nice gloss.

**WillSports3** · 06-09-2017, 09:55 AM

That's why something like hyperpolish and reflect is recommended.

**antti@561detailing** · 06-09-2017, 10:02 AM

Originally Posted by Newdetailer1

That was going to be the next question...if there is a finishing polish that's on par with Menzerna that has less oils in it? I agree that the SF has a lot of oils but it produces such a nice gloss.

Jescar Micropolish is kind of like improved Menzerna...but better...still oily but less oily...
Haven't used my Menzerna products, since I picked up Jescar.
Compound is like improved fg400 and Micropolish like their best fine polish. Less smell and better.

Originally Posted by WillSports3

That's why something like hyperpolish and reflect is recommended.

Jescar Micropolish won't leave marring on soft paints like Reflect is doing...(try black Porsche).
Depends on the paint, but when it really matters, Jescar is one of the top finishing products.

**WillSports3** · 06-09-2017, 10:08 AM

On soft paints, I use carpro essence and an orange cutting pad as a one step before a coating. I find sometimes with softer paint, a stiffer pad and a finishing polish works well. Regardless, menzerna is too oily of a polish without going to a body shop prep product in many ways.

**antti@561detailing** · 06-09-2017, 10:23 AM

Originally Posted by WillSports3

On soft paints, I use carpro essence and an orange cutting pad as a one step before a coating. I find sometimes with softer paint, a stiffer pad and a finishing polish works well. Regardless, menzerna is too oily of a polish without going to a body shop prep product in many ways.

One way to go, yes stiffer pad sometimes gives you advantage, but depends what coating you use...also I use only body shop cleaners to make sure that paint is clean...Gtechniq coating will pick up any residue left behind...
I am using Jescar and white pad with PC, on a 31 year old, extremely soft and extremely thin, single stage Ferrari...works beautiful...it will receive no coating...so these oils actaully make it very easy on that paint...reflect or 205 would cut too much...I don't use Jescar with every paint, but when it really matters, it will make your life real easy.