Zaino or Zymol [Archive]

nsxtasy

02-26-2001, 20:50

Which is better Zaino or Zymol?!?!

Zymol.

Which produces the best gloss/shine?

I think Zymol but it's damn close.

Which is the least abrasive to the NSX?

Toss-up.

Which is easier to apply?

Zymol, by far.

Which one removes haze, scratches, oxidation, etc. the best?

Zymol HD-Cleanse.

Wich one is the best product for the price?

Meguiar's. Zaino and Zymol are both fairly expensive.

Which company has developed a wax specifically formulated for the NSX?

Zymol.

Which company has sponsored the concours at NSXPO each year, to keep down the cost for NSX members to come to the event?

Zymol.

Which company has given out kits of its products to all the attendees at the past couple of NSXPO's

Zymol.

I have no personal interest in Zymol. I just use it because it gives me great results on my NSX.

$.02

NSXY

02-26-2001, 21:20

I have not used Zymol, because I learned so much that was more positive about the results of Zaino's.

So I went with Zaino's and it's results are really great. Zaino's fills in the scratches to make them invisible; it does not take them out. It's expensive too at over $120 for a total car kit of treatment products. And, you must be ready to spend an entire weekend or more to do it exactly as described by Zaino.

You first have to remove all existing wax and raod grime with certain detergents and start from scratch (pun intended). You must buy a bunch of 100% cotton white towels made in the USA, and they can only be washed with certain detergents also.

It's a whole system of products and personal behavior; it's not just a paste wax that you slap on and buff out after a wash job.

But oh what a shine it is... When you're done, your car looks like a show car, just as is in the name "Zaino's Show Car Polish." (No I'm not a salesperson, and I don't know Sal Zaino).

Best luck.

------------------
NSXY
95 NSX-T, 5 sp, Red/Tan, Stock, except Dunlaptya SP9000s

Jimbo

02-26-2001, 23:31

At the risk of repeating myself and being called a Zaino-zealot...

IT'S ZAINO!!!

Some additional thoughts....

I didn't think that the Zaino products were all THAT expensive. Here's what I use on my black 1991 NSX...

1. Z-1 Pre-cleaner = $9.00
2. Z-2 Polish = $13.00
3. Z-5 Polish (for swirl marks) = $17.00
4. Z-6 Gloss Enhancer "Spritzer bottle" = $10.00
5. Z-7 Car Wash = $8.00

Oh.. I also bought their clay bar and did use that for the first time. Keep in mind that you use these products so sparingly they last a very long time.

It's nice that Zymol attends the various NSX events. However, that's not enough reason for me to spend my money on their products.

I seen cars at the various events done with Zymol and I did a fender of my car with Zymol at a show. It looked nice. For me it took much longer to apply the HD-Cleanse and the NSX Wax than the Zaino. It also was more elbow grease.

There's also more of a residue that comes from the HD-Cleanse. You use a lot of it (as was demonstrated by the Zymol rep). You need Q-Tips to remove it from the cracks and crevises. And the NSX wax, according to the Zymol guy, you apply it with your bare hands, first heating it up in your palms...etc. (although you can eat it, if you should so desire - which was also part of the Zymol demo).

One of my issues with Zymol is one of hype. I heard their pitch from the Zymol guy how the NSX is made out a particular heat-treated aluminum alloy and how Zymol is formulated particularly for the car. To which I say..."bull".

The Zymol wax coats the clear coat of the car. It has nothing to do with the aluminum that's under the clearcoat and under the paint.

Go to the Zymol web site and see how they essentially repurpose different waxes with very slight differences for anywhere from $50 to $1000 per tub! It's not strictly the percentage and the type of carnauba (yellow or white) that's used which determines the price. It's how expensive your car is.

If you own a Volvo or a Saab the wax is one price. If you own Jaguar it's another price and if you own a NSX it's $128 (with the discount). They even have wax that's $822 for 8 ounces. And when you look at the ingredients of the various products there's just not that much difference! Certainly not in the expensive components such as the carnuaba, and certainly nothing that would make a difference to the heat-treated aluminum alloy.

For some reason that bugs me. Sorry. Perhaps I shouldn't even bring it up and I'm not trying to criticize or knock anyone's choice on which product they like. I suspect that most NSX owners probably don't care whether or not a tub of wax is $120.

However, I didn't choose the Zaino products because of the price. Frankly, if I felt the Zymol products were better, I probably would still buy them.

I'll get down off my soapbox now.... http://www.nsxprime.com/ubb/wink.gif

-Jim

------------------
1991 NSX Blk/Blk
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

Khuang

02-27-2001, 00:48

BladeNSX:

I have everything that Zaino sells (except the non-clear coat polish), in fact I spent over $400 for everything. Here is what I found:

1. Swirl removal is useless, I am getting the car buffed again.
2. You have to follow Zaino's instructions, which is long but the car looks great.
3. The polish contains no abrasive at all, so it can't even remove water spots. It is very easy to put on and take off.
4. The glass cleaner, leather conditioner and tire gloss seem average to me. I wouldn't buy that again.
5. The gloss spray is awesome, that is why I got 12 bottles.

Here is what I recommend and was confirmed by Sal (Zaino owner).

1. Take the car to a detail shop to have the car buffed to remove all fine scratches since the swirl removal does not do much.
2. Wash it with Dawn dish soap.
3. Start the Zaino process Z1

The buffing accomplish 2 things, remove the swirl marks and eliminate the use of clay.

Long Long process

Jimbo

02-27-2001, 01:18

Khuang,

Unless you bought multiple items, I can't see how you spent more than $150 for everything Zaino has.
http://www.zainobros.com/files/order.htm

I had great luck with Z-5 getting rid of my swirl marks and light scratches.

I also agree that the gloss enhancer is awesome. I also REALLY like the car wash too.

My thoughts regarding buffing is to be CAREFUL. Buffing a car, particularly a clearcoat car, is really a tough job that should only be attempted by a real pro. Just be careful.

It looks like the last part of your note was truncated.

After the Z-1...you use either the Z-5 or Z-2. As I mentioned, I had a bit of swirl marks and light scratches. After a few applications of the 5, I started using the 2.

I'm sure this sounds confusing and daunting to the uninitiated, but it really is quite easy and straightforward.

Jim

------------------
1991 NSX Blk/Blk
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

nsxtasy

02-27-2001, 11:51

Here's what I don't like about Zaino:

1. They advise to use dishwashing liquid on your car. That's bull. I would never use dishwashing liquid on my car. It's made for washing dishes, not for washing cars.

Zymol makes a great car wash liquid called Clear.

2. They sell products that don't work - like swirl mark removers that don't take out swirl marks.

3. Too many steps. WAY too many steps.

4. They advise to leave one of their products on your car for 24 hours and then buff off. BAD advice. In 24 hours, the car is going to accumulate dust that you will be buffing into your finish and creating scratches.

5. Some of their products (such as their swirl remover and their leather cleaner) are WAY inferior to others on the market. (Zymol's Clear car wash, their leather cleaner, called Treat, and their interior trim, called Vinyl, are terrific). If they are selling inferior products for some purposes, it makes me question the quality of ALL their products.

6. They claim that one set of products can be used on all finishes. I'd rather have products that are specifically formulated for individual finishes (that's finishes, not metals - maybe someone used the wrong word once, but the concept is important). There are differences among finishes - Japanese car finishes are notably softer than American finishes, for example.

This is just my opinion, of course. I've gotten great results from Zymol. It's the first choice of the top car detailers and show car enthusiasts in the country. There's a reason for that. Their products are great.

This is not to say you can't get good results from other products. You can get great results from Zaino. You can also get great results, at a much lower price, from Meguiar's, which makes very good products that you can purchase at most decent auto parts stores. It's just like changing your oil - the most important thing in taking care of your car is how you do it, not which brand you use. If you use a nonabrasive polish to remove oxidation, and follow it with a good carnauba wax to maintain the gloss and protection, you're going to get better results than if you don't. But I'm extremely finicky about my cars, and I want the absolutely best results I can get. And that's why I choose Zymol.

Lud

02-27-2001, 12:38

Originally posted by BladesNSX:
Not trying to start an argument here so please be as objective as possible.

If only it were that easy! Car car products are religion to most enthusiasts.

The "objective" truth is that you can get excellent results from any of the quality 3-step (clean, polish, wax) products. Unless you are entering a major concours I doubt it matters which brand you use. Proper technique and regular use matter more than the specific product.

Just my opinion of course...

Khuang

02-27-2001, 12:57

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Jimbo:
[B]Khuang,

Unless you bought multiple items, I can't see how you spent more than $150 for everything Zaino has.

I bought 12 bottles of Z2 and 12 bottles of Z6. I want to make sure I have enough and not to wait 1 week to get the products. I also have multiple bottles of the car wash. I like to buy in bulk, that way one can give a bottle or two to good friends that is looking into these products.

johndoh

02-27-2001, 14:00

Sorry to be off the subject here, but I just want to say that these comprehensive & detailed discussion are top notch. No where else could I get this kind of information about the NSX or anything pertaining to NSXs. I thoroughly enjoy reading your posts when you spend a lot of time writing & describing your experiences and opinions. Keep at it!

I think I'm even getting a little teary-eyed. *sniff sniff* You guys are the best!

Jimbo

02-27-2001, 14:22

nsxtasy,

1. The use of a dishwashing liquid (i.e. Dawn) is only recommended one time in order to remove old wax and polishes. You're unfairly implying that there's something wrong with this.

2. My experience with their swirl remover is obviously different than yours.

3. Too many steps? I think you're mistaken. True, I did the Dawn and the clay bar, and the first Z-1 pre-treatment (which I reapply every year), but then I just apply the Z-2. It's the same number of steps as Zymol (actually less if you realize just wash and apply Z-2 all but once a year)...but for me less time. Where did you get more steps?

4. I've never heard the recommendation to leave Zaino on for 24 hours. Perhaps you can find that for me...
http://www.zainobros.com/files/application.htm

5. I don't use every Zaino product. For example, I use Lexol for the leather. I use what works best for me. Your claim that since some of their products are better than others, invalidates their entire product line is a bit overboard, IMHO.

6. Yes, there are differences in finishes and I've yet to hear and understand exactly how and why Zymol's formulation is any different than their Japon products. I don't know if the Zymol representative mispoke or what. I just know what he said.

You speak very highly of Zymol and that's great. I believe I have explained, fairly and honestly why I have problems with Zymol. However, if you're going to criticize Zaino in order to make Zymol look better I would suggest you avoid exaggeration. You don't need to unfairly bash Zaino to boost Zymol.

Jim

------------------
1991 NSX Blk/Blk
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

Ponyboy

02-27-2001, 14:48

I've had excellent results w/ Griot's Garage's Clay Bar, Polish, and Best of Show Wax.

Haven't used the cleaner yet, but I concur, diswashing liquid is for washing dishes not cars. But I understand the idea of wanting to strip the wax and clean the paint surface. Makes sense.

So far Griot's Garage has been very good to me.

Shawn

Jimbo

02-27-2001, 14:55

Regarding price...It has been said that Zaino and Zymol are both fairly expensive.

Here's the real numbers...

Zaino (from Zaino web site)

1. Z-1 Pre-cleaner = $9.00 (use once a year, lasts a very long time)

2. Z-2 Polish = $13.00 (Use this or the Z-5)

3. Z-5 Polish (for swirl marks) = $17.00 (Use if car has swirls but then switch to Z-5)

4. Z-6 Gloss Enhancer "Spritzer bottle" = $10.00 (Use for touch-ups, etc)

5. Z-7 Car Wash = $8.00

Zymol (from Zymol web site)

NSX Wax = $144.00

HD Cleanse 16oz = $38.30

-Jim

------------------
1991 NSX Blk/Blk
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

nsxtasy

02-27-2001, 16:06

The use of a dishwashing liquid (i.e. Dawn) is only recommended one time in order to remove old wax and polishes. You're unfairly implying that there's something wrong with this.

I don't think it's a good idea to use something that's designed for dishes on my car. Obviously you disagree. I'm not sure why you call it unfair for me to have a different opinion from yours.

Too many steps? I think you're mistaken. True, I did the Dawn and the clay bar, and the first Z-1 pre-treatment (which I reapply every year), but then I just apply the Z-2. It's the same number of steps as Zymol (actually less if you realize just wash and apply Z-2 all but once a year)...but for me less time. Where did you get more steps?

Per Zymol:

1. Clear (car wash)
2. HD-Cleanse
3. Wax

Per Zaino:

1. Car wash
2. Z-18 clay bar
3. Z-1
4. Z2 or Z5
5. Z6
6. Another coat of Z2 or Z5

I've never heard the recommendation to leave Zaino on for 24 hours. Perhaps you can find that for me...

Two places, quoting directly from their website:

1. "You can leave Z-2 or Z-5 on for hours or overnight if you desire." (Okay, it's not 24 hours, but overnight is enough for dust to accumulate, even in a closed garage.)

2. "After removal of Zaino Z-2 or Z-5. You should wait 24 hours if the outside temperature is under 70 degrees and 6 hours if over 70 degrees, before applying the next coat of Z-5 or Z-2."

You speak very highly of Zymol and that's great. I believe I have explained, fairly and honestly why I have problems with Zymol. However, if you're going to criticize Zaino in order to make Zymol look better I would suggest you avoid exaggeration. You don't need to unfairly bash Zaino to boost Zymol.

I don't see why you say I'm being unfair. In fact, it sounds like you're saying it's fair for you to point out what you don't like about Zymol, but it's not fair for me to point out the things I don't like about Zaino. I don't think that is fair.

I am only describing my own experiences. You asked why I said there are more steps and I have listed them. You asked why I said Zaino recommends leaving its products on long enough to collect dust and I have quoted directly from their website.

I'll say it again - you can get great results with Zaino, just like you can with the other brands. As Lud indicates, the key is using a three-step process, and that's more important than which brand you use. If you like using Zaino, good! Keep using it. I just feel that it would be helpful to everyone to point out the reason that I've found better results from Zymol.

For those who haven't used these products - here's my advice. If you want your car to look really good, and you also care about price and convenience, get Meguiar's. Meguiar's makes a complete line of very good products, and they're less expensive and easier to use than either Zaino or Zymol.

If you are really finicky about your car, then read all of the comments and try the one that seems to make the most sense to you. Better yet - try both lines of products, use them both according to the directions, and pick the one that you're happiest with.

Jimbo

02-27-2001, 16:44

nsxtasy,

1. Regarding the Dawn dishwashing liquid... I guess I thought it was unfair because you didn't offer a reason and you seem to imply it was bad. I suppose you could also use a specially designed wax remover if the use of a mild detergent bothers you. Even though Dawn wasn't designed for your NSX, it still works fine and doesn't damage anything when used to remove old wax and crud. When I bought my used NSX it had years of old cruddy wax and polish. The Dawn and clay bay process removed this nicely.

2. Regarding the steps. The clay bar is an option that anyone could do (or not) to start out. Many companies sell these bars and they do a nice job, particularly on older cars. The Z-1 is only done once a season. It's not fair to make it sound like a regular part of the process. Likewise, the Z-6 is used for touchups, etc. Although, I suppose you could apply them every time if you want. And finally, your step six is misleading. Sure, I'll put on another coat of Z2 or Z5, just like you'll put on another coat of wax after awhile. You don't HAVE to put on multiple coats.

Simply put, I wash my car and put on Z2. If I drive around and go to a show or something, I'll take along my spritzer bottle of Z6 as a touchup. That's it. I'm sure there's always people who go overboard, but it's really not that difficult or complex with many steps as you make it out to be. Honestly.

3. Regarding the 24 hours statement... Yes. you CAN leave it on overnight if you wish but you don't HAVE to. And that's a big difference from what you imply. You make it sound like you're supposed to leave it on for 24 hours and then buff off.

That's a big difference than...you can leave it on overnight if you like. And your second comment was to wait 24 hours before applying ANOTHER coat of Z-5 or Z-2. Again, that's not what you implied.

And that's the only reason why I thought you were being somewhat unfair.

You're obviously free to point out why you like Zymol and why you don't like Zaino. If it's your impression or opinion that Zymol is shinier, that's cool. That's a subjective thing and that's fine. I only felt compelled to respond because I thought you were giving the wrong impression regarding objective details.

Hey, look I don't want to start a range war here. We obviously both have much more in common that we have disagreements about!

I'd like to think that if we washed our cars together, I'd help you Zymol yours and you would help me Zaino mine!

;-)

Regards,
Jim

------------------
1991 NSX Blk/Blk
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

nsxtasy

02-27-2001, 17:20

Cool. http://www.nsxprime.com/ubb/cool.gif

http://www.nsxprime.com/ubb/smile.gif

Lud

02-27-2001, 17:23

Originally posted by Lud:
If only it were that easy! Car car products are religion to most enthusiasts.

See what I mean? http://www.nsxprime.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

NSXY

02-27-2001, 19:06

Lud et al.

Frankly I don't think car polish is so much like religion, because you can actually see the results with your own eyes, or feels the results with your own hand.

I think that the synthetic vs non-synthetic oil discussion is more like religion (see ongoing thread), because no one can see inside their engine, but many "believe" in benefits of these lubricants with no observable proof from thier cars.

I use Zaino's because I see and feel the difference. I don't use synthetic because I know of no published proof that it makes any difference in my NSX's performance or life span (I change oil at 3K).

------------------
NSXY
95 NSX-T, 5 sp, Red/Tan, Stock, except Dunlaptya SP9000s

JChoice

02-28-2001, 01:23

I personally use Zaino but I plan on switching to Meguiars.

I think there may be a difference but the difference is probably not very dramatic.

The problem with Zaino is:

TOO MANY DAMN STEPS. The spray is a big ass pain in the ass. I think Meguiars final detailer goes on and off much easier. The spray instructions say to do a 1 foot square at a time- are they nuts? And if the car is dusty, how do I NOT scratch the car when I'm using a big ass towel but only spraying down a 1x1 square? If I use a little towel then it will take me 45 minutes to do the whole car (like it did last night).

I love the product, seems to work great and it got rid of most of the "spider webbing" in the paint. Is it better than Meguiars? Maybe. But I wash my car all the time, I like to do it. And I don't mind throwing on a coat of wax and polich once a month but for the difference in price and quality, Zaino isn't worth all the work - mostly because of that damn spray.

Also, I can't apply the Zaino in my garage if it's humid or raining outside because it will never dry. Sheesh.

-Justin

Nsxotic

02-28-2001, 01:48

Meguires Gold Class is excellent and, of course, quick detailer keeps it beautiful.... besides, can't find Zaino near me. (I know it's online) I am curious to see Zaino results....would never even bother with Zymol though.

------------------
Todd Arnold
http://www.geocities.com/nsxcessive/index.html

DocL

02-28-2001, 16:03

Originally posted by Nsxotic:
I am curious to see Zaino results....

Todd, you did see Zaino results. Weren't you impressed with the Monte Carlo Blue that I showed up in. I only applied one full application of Zaino to it in the past year.

If you want, come over and watch me Zaino my NSX one day.

Nsxotic

02-28-2001, 23:02

Tell you what.....I'll come over and watch you Zaino my NSX, howzat?...... http://www.nsxprime.com/ubb/smile.gif actually, I saw alot of swirls in that blue to be honest. It might have just been dirty from the trip...

------------------
Todd Arnold
http://www.geocities.com/nsxcessive/index.html

CChung

03-01-2001, 01:22

I thought I was abusing my NSX by using Meguiars Hi Tech Yellow Wax #26 until I saw the posts from JChoice and Nsxotic. Although I take good care of my car,I just don't have the time or energy to be doing all these steps these Zaino or Zymol products require. Especially when you drive for a few miles and the car is dirty again. The Meguiars wax is just one step and the car feels very smooth and looks glossy to me. I've got to admit I haven't seen a NSX with the Zaino or Zymol shine but the effort and time it takes to apply them is just not worth it to me. I'd rather spend the time driving the car. Just my two cents. I'm with you JChoice and NSXotic.

------------------
'00 NSX-T, silverstone/blk, #252

Jimbo

03-01-2001, 04:25

CChung, et al

I've not used Meguiars Hi Tech Yellow #26. I used to use Meguires on my Corvettes years ago and they make a fine product. If you like the results..well that's all that counts.

I just wanted to comment on this "Zaino number of steps" issue, because I think it's misunderstood.

When I clean and polish my car, here's what I do...

1. I wash it. Nothing fancy, I like the Zaino car wash. Warm water, clean cotton towels. Typical stuff.

2. I sparingly put on the Zaino Z-2 over the whole car. Standard cotton applicator. I put it on the whole car and by the time I'm done (about 30 min) I start where I began and I remove the Z-2, rubbing/buffing with the towel as I go.

That's it! I of course, do the interior and the wheels, but as far as the paint/exterior, that's a typical every other week session.

The "steps" when it comes to Zaino are really overstated. The other things I do are....

Once a season, typically the first nice spring day here, I reapply Z-1 before the Z-2.

Use the Z-6 spray for touch-ups or if I go to an event and I'm just hanging around the car, talking with friends and such. The 1 sq ft at a time "rule" doesn't bother me, but I cheat bit too.

I should also add, that since my NSX is kept in the garage, I don't have too much problem with dust. When I do, I use a cotton duster from Griot's (mentioned before).

Speaking of Griot's, they have some nice stuff. Brushes, wipes, pads, etc.
http://www.griotsgarage.com/

Some stuff is pricey, but many things are reasonably priced and you can't find them anywhere else.

-Jim

PS: As mentioned they also have a carnuaba product as well and it's reasonably priced.

------------------
1991 NSX Blk/Blk
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

nsxtasy

03-01-2001, 08:46

Here are the steps I use with Zymol:

1. Wash the car. As needed - when it gets dirty.

2. Use HD-Cleanse to remove oxidation. I do this once a year. I also use it as needed on a spot basis on any tar spots and bug spots that don't wash off. Just remember to re-wax those spots, because HD-Cleanse will remove wax.

HD-Cleanse is a fairly thin liquid that is very easy to apply, easy to buff off.

3. Wax the car with one of Zymol's line of high-carnauba waxes. I would like to say I do this once every three months on my daily driver, but it winds up being more like once every six months. Once or twice a year on my NSX (I would do it the same frequency as my daily driver if I drove it more). Some are easier to apply than others; all buff off easily, as long as you apply only a very thin coat (that's all that's needed).

Not a lot of steps, not very often. Easy to do, easy to keep up with.

It's really no different with Meguiar's. Meguiar's makes good products but you don't really get all the benefits by using a "one step" product. For best results, you should really use something (such as their #9 product) occasionally to take off any oxidation and surface contamination that doesn't wash off. Try it once and you'll see the difference.

dswartz

03-01-2001, 10:38

BladesNSX, last year in Volume 3 Issue 1 of NSX Driver Magazine, there was a reasonably scientific comparison of Waxes and Polishes. 19 automotive waxes and polishes were tested over a 3-month period on the hood of a black NSX that was taped off into 13 sections. While the test did not include Zaino, it did include Zymol. Since Zaino and Zymol are clearly considered the top two in this thread, the results are very interesting. The winner was 3M’s Swirl Mark Remover Polish and 3M Show Car Paste Wax! This combination won because of its long lasting high gloss, deep rich color, good water shedding ability, and high value for the money.

I currently have been using Zymol on my 98 NSX Coupe (Yellow with Black Roof) and while the shine is nice, I’m not overly impressed. The paint on this car is so good that anything will look good.

As Lud said, the “objective” truth is that you can get excellent results from any of the quality 3-step (clean, polish, wax) products. Its not always the most expensive polish/wax combination that performs the best. I personally have, for the past 15 years, used 3M Glaze and Glip Paste Wax on my wife’s 1972 Ferrari Dino 246 GT. The finish is still outstanding. We have entered the car in several concourse events and it has won first or second place in every event. People have even said it has the best finish of any car they have ever seen.

I hope my 2 cents helps.

nsxtasy

03-01-2001, 10:59

Like the Meguiar's line, the 3M products are an excellent value and are widely available at many auto parts stores (not quite everywhere like Meguiar's, but you shouldn't have to look too hard to find them in your area). You can get excellent results from 3M as well as any of the other brands mentioned.

SJJ28

03-01-2001, 18:06

I have avoided posting to this thread, because someone is ALWAYS going to dissagree with you.
I have been a professional detailer for a few years, and have been detailing cars on the side for about 15 years. The answer to this question is : THERE IS NO CORRECT ANSWER!!!
3 Professional detailers can get the same results with 3 different products. The more you use a single line of products (ie Meguiars), the more you get used to it, and the better you undertsand how to use it to get the best results.
That said, I have always used Meguiars professional (in the tan bottles) products. I have always had a nearly perfect daily driver, all it takes is a quick wash to enter it in a show (AND WIN!!!!)
When I got my NSX, I was lured into trying ZAINO. When I took delivery of my car it looked good, but NOT GREAT!!
I spent one afternoon on my car, and this is the process:
Wash with Dawn
Clay entire car with Zaino Clay (best of any Ive tried!!) and zaino wash/water solution
wash entire car agin with dawn.
Machine polished with meguiars #7 (this is a show car glaze that has a VERY minimul abrasive , and is mostly filler)
Wash entire car again with Dawn.
Apply Z1 Polish LOK
Apply Z5 Polish and remove
Applied Z5 and removed 2 more times
Applied and removed 2 coats of Z2
The car looked absolutely awesome when I was done!!

Truth be told, I am planning on trying the Zymol treatment with NSX wax, but Im sort of sick when it comes to this stuff. I'll let you all know the results mid way through the summer. I will not comment on the results, or effort of the Zymol because I havent used it yet http://www.nsxprime.com/ubb/wink.gif

Here is a pic of my Black 91 right after the initial Zaino treatment. Please remember, pics never do justice to a cars finish.

http://www.nsxprime.com/Images/sjj28.jpg

Best of luck with whatever you choose!!

Steve

------------------
Steve
91 Black/Black #2363

[This message has been edited by Lud (edited 02 March 2001).]

westernb4

03-01-2001, 19:23

I've often wondered what waxes and polishes do to the longeivity of a paint job. Because
a car looks so good right after a wax/polish
we tend to assume that we've done something good for the paint. Is it possible
that in fact these various chemicals
decrease the life of a paint job and hasten fading, etc?

NSXLNT

03-01-2001, 20:18

I have never used Zymol, but I can swear by Zaino. When I first went to look at my car to see if I wanted to buy it, I was impressed how great it looked and how the previous owner took care of it. I bought it for all of the reasons we love the NSX. Being as anal as I am about the car's appearance, I tried Zaino after my brother's recommendation. I saw the results of Zaino on his brand new PT Cruiser. ( don't laugh, it's a cool car ) I helped him apply the Zaino, and saw the car before and after. The results were just incredible. It literally sparkled. His car is black. Anyway, right then and there I ordered some Zaino for my red NSX. I did the whole deal with stripping the old wax off by using Dawn. You could actually see the old wax flowing in the rinse water as if it were oil. You know how oil leaves a rainbow when it floats on water?
I did the Z1, Z5 , then Z2 , all in one weekend and the results were unbelievable. Mind you, before I started the car looked great. I don't know what the previous owner used. But now, I'm a Zaino fanatic. I use the mister all the time too, in between washes and polishes. It's great. The only reason Zaino recommends doing a small piece at a time is so that it won't dry on the car before you wipe it off. If it does dry, it spots, but you just spray a little more on, wipe and the spots disappear.
I feel it's a great value too, because a little goes a long way. I probably did seven or eight coats between the Z5 and Z2, and have enough left over for several more.
Zaino has a nice web site, check it out

SJJ28

03-02-2001, 01:49

WHOA!! sorry that picture is so big!!!
I cant change the size becaus it is hosted by a freind who is hard to get in touch with!!!

Lud, can you help me there??

Lud

03-02-2001, 10:58

Originally posted by SJJ28:
Lud, can you help me there??

I copied the pic to this site and scaled it down about 2.5:1 -- hope that helps!

JChoice

03-02-2001, 23:32

Jimbo:

You may have an easy time with Zaino but that's because you are not following the steps.

Do you spray the entire car down with the spray before applying Z2? Doesn't sound like it. According to Zaino, you're supposed to.

That's the step that kills me, I love waxing the car but spraying the entire car down with a spray bottle and wiping it off until it drays one square foot at a time is tedious.

If it weren't for that step, I would stick with Zaino. I still have tons of it.

I love their leather cleaner.

Jimbo

03-03-2001, 00:47

JChoice,

I believe I'm following the steps exactly to the letter.

I don't know where you're hearing that recommendation to use the spray (Z-6 Gloss Enhancer) before applying the Z-2.

I have never heard that, nor could I find it on the Zaino web site anywhere.

Here are the steps I use (and these seem to be in-line with the Zaino recommendations and tips/tricks on their web site)...

Once a season I wash the car and then apply the Z-1 preconditioner. I let it dry to a fine haze and apply the Z-2 and then buff.

Subsequent times, oh say several times a year, I just apply the Z-2 and buff.

The Z-6 Gloss Enhancer is used every so often between Z-2 applications, as I explained...as a touch-up. As such, the one square foot at time rule doesn't bother me and it doesn't seem to matter if I cheat a bit and do several sq ft at time.

That's it.

Let me know where you heard that you need to apply Z-6 before Z-2.

-Jim

------------------
1991 NSX Blk/Blk
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

Jimbo

03-03-2001, 01:12

Also...regarding the Z-6 Gloss Enhancer....
http://www.hcvind.com/JulieAnnwithZ6.jpg

Another happy Zaino customer!

LOL!!! - Sorry I couldn't help myself.

-Jim

------------------
1991 NSX Blk/Blk
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

DocL

03-03-2001, 01:27

Originally posted by Jimbo:
JChoice,

Here are the steps I use (and these seem to be in-line with the Zaino recommendations and tips/tricks on their web site)...

Once a season I wash the car and then apply the Z-1 preconditioner. I let it dry to a fine haze and apply the Z-2 and then buff.
Let me know where you heard that you need to apply Z-6 before Z-2.

Actually, you are doing it out of order, but the final result is probably the same. After the initial coat of Z-1 dries, you should be applying Z-5 on top of the Z-1. Then, you can use as many coats of Z-5 until you have filled in the micro scratches and swirls to your satisfaction. Lastly, you apply the Z-2. Now, if you want a "wetter" look, you can use the Z-6 between the Z-5 applications and Z-2 applications. I usually don't use the Z-6 between each application, I only use it before I'm going to apply the Z-2 every so often.

Jimbo

03-03-2001, 03:02

Dr. L,

I used Z-5 initially until the swirls and fine scratches were pretty much gone. And then I switched to the Z-2.

I don't believe that's out of order. That's what the Zaino web site says and that's what my local Zaino distributor said.

So, to be more correct...

For the very, very first time (after I "Dawned" and clayed the car), I used Z-1 and Z-5. Then for two or three times thereafter, I used the Z-5 by itself.

After that, I was satisfied that the swirls/scratches were not visible, and then I switched to Z-2 (which has better optical properties than Z-5).

As I understand it, the Z-5 and Z-2 are interchangeable. You use one or the other, but not both at the same time as part of the procedure. Once the swirls and scratches are gone, you go to the Z-2.

-Jim

------------------
1991 NSX Blk/Blk
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

DocL

03-03-2001, 10:29

You got it right Jimbo, I probably misread something.

Hmmm, it's a nice day. Maybe I should go Zaino something!

JChoice

03-03-2001, 22:21

I see, the 6 is recommended but not required.

Anyone else besides me frustrated with spraying down the entire car one small section at a time?

I guess I can use the Zaino without the Z6.

Jimbo

03-03-2001, 23:44

JChoice,

Yes. The Z-6 is a separate, optional thing. I suppose it's analogous to many of those spray shine enhancers that are offered by the other companies.

Since it's a clearish liquid it goes on and comes off easy. I do a small section at a time and just go around the car.

-Jim

------------------
1991 NSX Blk/Blk
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

Lee

03-10-2001, 22:49

Ok, well I have finally had my first experience with the Zymol products today. I recently purchased a black 92 which looks really great upclose by the light of day but dont put it closeup under any lights at night...wow, what a mess. Anyway after getting familiar with the zymol I process I think I have it down. It seems the HD cleaner is the real powerhouse here cleaning up the paint very nicely when applied by massaging into the paint in a back and forth motion. Before and after under a 60W lamp show definate results. However, question is, although this product claims to be non abrasive, I don't really understand what it is doing to "cleanse" the paint.? It must be with the medium pressure that is recommends be applied during the cleanse process. I am interested to see what it will look like in the morning. Keep my fingers crossed! Secondly, it just so happened that my neighbor came by and indicated that he used Zaino, & happened to have the whole line handy..So I decided to give it a head to head comparision. The zaino goes on really nicely and hazes up and removes with no effort at all. The Z-5 seems to work very nicely to remove/fill fine scratches without creating any new ones. But overall, after using the Z-1, Z-5, Z-2, & Z-6, i really could not tell that much difference between the two.. I think they both work pretty well. But I feel that the zymol might last a little longer as it seems a little heavier. But then again, most of us dont really tend to rack up enough miles that would require constant attention.

1HOT NSX

03-11-2001, 09:40

I'm a Zaino fanatic too. What I like the most about Zaino is the fact that it does not leave any visible white residue anywhere. The only problem is that it won't protect the finish for as long as a good wax , but it's so easy to apply that I don't mind Zainoing my car every two or three months.

BladesNSX

03-25-2001, 01:29

Okay!!!!!!!

Thanx guys. So its Zymol all the way!!!!!

http://www.nsxprime.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

okay well look...I am going to try the Zymol first. But until this serious drought in Florida is over I have to keep washing to a real minimum (Water restriction laws).

Then I will try Ziano........

steveny

03-25-2001, 16:44

I use a three step process of comet that i rub in with an s.o.s pad and then rub off with a pine cone.

nsxtasy

03-25-2001, 18:17

Is that the PREMIUM Comet, with 50 percent carnauba chloride? Do you use the special pine cones that you get from Griot's Garage? How many cars can you do with one package of S.O.S. pads?

DocL

03-25-2001, 22:03

Steveny, I use brake fluid after the comet and steel wool to remove the swirls. It really works well. After that, I usually go ahead with my normal Z routine.

Nsxotic

03-25-2001, 23:10

Steveny......it's been a long time since I read something here that caught me funny, but your post just slayed me http://www.nsxprime.com/ubb/biggrin.gif Short, to the point and frickin' hilarious!

steveny

03-27-2001, 00:35

I always try to add a little humor to everything in my life to lighten up people around me. A smile can go along way.

SigEpUCI

03-29-2001, 00:03

Guys, terribly sorry to bring this topic back to the top, but I have a question for the Zymol users...

I have HD-Cleanse and the Glaze, but no *special* applicator pads.

The zymol website says only use the pads - sure this is most likely marketing gimmick, but what is the odds of damaging the paint with the HD-Cleanse if not using their pads?

I guess im just looking for tips with the HD stuff....

TIA
Jeff

------------------
-------
95 T bl/bl @ 35K

nsxtasy

03-29-2001, 00:21

I use all-cotton towels - the kind that you can buy bags of at the auto parts store.

Make sure they're all cotton, and don't use fabric softener when you wash them.

Lud

03-29-2001, 08:39

The Zymol applicator pads are just cotten terry cloth wrapped around a fairly soft sponge.

Jimbo

03-29-2001, 11:59

There's something that, whether you use Zymol or Zaino we can all agree on.

Soft cotton towels or applicators with no polyester stitching.

I occassionally buy those terry cloth applicator thingies at a flea market. The ones I get are nice and soft and stitched with cotton.

I also use cotton handtowels folded over. Washcloths are too tiny and don't provide enough cushioning and the larger towels are just too big.

The Zymol rep that I saw demonstrating the NSX wax and HD Cleanse, recommended to apply the wax with the bare hand. He used the applicator for the HD Cleanse.

For those interested in Zymol, there's a guy who sells the NSX wax on eBay from time to time. Instead of the $100+ price he gets between $20 and $80. Which seems to be a more reasonable price for a carnauba-based product.
http://search-completed.ebay.com/search/search.dll?MfcISAPICommand=GetResult&SortProperty=MetaEndSort&pb=&ebaytag1=ebayreg&ht=1&query=NSX+Zymol&ebaytag1code=0

For me.... It's Zaino all the way! ;-)

BTW: I just got another NSX. A red 1992 with very low miles. I'll take some pictures in the near future!

Jim

------------------
1992 NSX Red/Blk 5 spd #0330
1991 NSX Blk/Blk Auto #3070 (Sold)
1974 Vette 454 4 spd
Wht/Blk

PAUL M

03-29-2001, 12:49

I was using zymol for a long time. The paint would look fantastic. Then i noticed that everytime i washed the car about a week after i would get these wax buildup spots on the car.so now i use 3m products car looks great and no problems

nsxtasy

03-29-2001, 12:57

The Zymol rep that I saw demonstrating the NSX wax and HD Cleanse, recommended to apply the wax with the bare hand. He used the applicator for the HD Cleanse.

That's because Zymol's superpremium waxes, which contain 47 to 53 percent carnauba, are too hard to spread with a towel; they need the warmth of the hands to soften the wax to a spreadable consistency. The waxes in this category include the ones named NSX, Concours, and a few others.

Japon, Zymol's "standard" wax for vehicles made by Japanese manufacturers, contains 37 percent carnauba and can be easily applied with a cotton towel or applicator. Same is true for their Carbon and Creame, Zymol's standard waxes for dark-colored and light-colored (respectively) cars of American or European make; Carbon and Creame are 33 percent carnauba.

Incidentally, the waxes sold by the major commercial brands typically contain 3 to 5 percent carnauba.