Rep Power: 657

hey guys what products do you guys suggest to get the shine back in my paint? thanks a lot.

 
Rep Power: 656

All 'shine' starts with the paint that you begin with.

To optimize the end result you should remove all swirls and scratches before moving on to sealing/waxing. You'd be astonished by the difference in well prepped paint, to un-prepped paint.

Proper procedure:
Wash
Clay
Rewash
Dry
Polish
Glaze
Seal
Wax

If you have any questions on the steps, feel free to ask!

 
Rep Power: 657

so what products do i use to remove the swirls? thanks

 
Rep Power: 656

Best bet would be to use a machine to polish the paint. It would be far too tedious by hand.

The best machine to start off would be a dual-action orbital: Porter Cable 7424
-- Offers professional results for the most part (will not remove 100% on harder clearcoats, nor deeper scratches), but a bit more time consuming than a rotary.

I would recommend any line of polishes available on autogeek.net, but I personally use Optimum's line. (Optimum Polish, Compound, Hypercompound)

In terms of stuff available locally? -- I have no experience, but some people have had sucess with Scratch-X or Color-X.. don't remember the name exactly. This stuff 'supposedly' works by hand for minor swirls, and would take SERIOUS elbowgrease for anything else.

Good luck!

 
Rep Power: 657

if not used right wont te oribtal ruin my paint? how about a buffer? will that work?

 
Rep Power: 656

Dual-actions (aka orbitals) are almost foolproof. They don't generate the heat that rotarys do, and subsequently, they are *harder* to damage your paint with. They can do quite a bit of damage with 4" pads, compounding, for trim (I've seen it melt trim before), but paint-wise, if you follow the instructions, you'll be safe.

Beginners should stick with an orbital.

Good luck!

 
Rep Power: 657

alright thanks.

and i use that after the wash?

 
Rep Power: 661

If you're a total newbie, which it sounds like you are (no offense; I am too!), it might be wise to have your car detailed by someone to restore that shiny to your car. Once those swirl marks are gone, it's much easier to maintain a good looking car.

Looking at Gabe's signature perhaps he can help you out. If not, perhaps give Kevin at http://gtaindetail.com/ a try. Amazing what professionals are capable of!

Good luck!

 
Rep Power: 657

thanks

 
Rep Power: 656

LOL, Kevin is a friend of mine, and his work more than speaks for itself. He's one of the best in the business, and if you need a mobile detailer, give him a shout for sure! I do this on the side, and mainly at my personal residence only. If you go to him, you'll be safe and satisfied for sure! He's located in the main core of Toronto, while I'm up north.

Just make sure you go to either of us, and not a cheap $20 wash and wax. You get what you pay for!