Re: Washing the Audi

[Todd Young <tyoung@wamnet.com>]

Doyt W. Echelberger wrote:

> I first soak off all the hardened bird crap and spots by putting pieces of
> wet paper towel  on them for about 30 minutes. Then they wipe off without
> risking leaving a rub mark.

Not a bad idea, just don't do it in direct sunlight.

> Then I wash the whole car starting at the top, with a big rubber sponge,
> using warm water with dish detergent in it.

Oh-no. Dish soap is too harsh for automotive finishes, better to use a cheap car
shampoo than dish soap.

> Then I rinse the whole car with a garden hose.

I wash in sections, then rinse. Best not to let the soap dry on the car.

> Then when it is dry I think about waxing it and don't. I am testing this
> approach and am still collecting data. It has worked for me over about 5
> years and I apply this method to all of my 7 cars. Expect a full report in
> about 10 years.
>
> This method works best on clearcoated paint jobs.

No offense, but even clear coated paint jobs need wax. It helps protect the clear
coat. Think of it this way. You put on a coat of wax and over time it wears off,
then you reapply. Which would you rather have wear off, a layer of wax, or a layer
of your clear coat? Personally, I'd rather have a layer of wax wear off.

Just my $.02, everyone will have their own opinions and methods.


--
Todd Young              WAM!NET Inc.
tyoung@wamnet.com       6100 West 110th Street
612-886-5051            Bloomington, MN 55438-2664
800-585-1133 ext.5051   http://www.wamnet.com/