So I'm getting ready to start my winter detailing next week. Winter time around here isn't real harsh more ice than snow but the road department sure does like to use that sand and salt. So I was wondering is 2 coats of wax really any advantage over just the standard 1 coat of wax?

 

Yes 2 coat of caranuba wax is better then one. But wont last more then 6-8 weeks depending on weather. A sealant will last a lot longer and protect more.

 

Yeah I've always used caranuba wax. I always use Maguires California Gold. I love that stuff. Whats a good sealant wax then? I'm assuming Maguires makes a sealant but whats the name of it?

 

There NXT tech wax is a synthetic wax and you can top it after 12 hrs with Calfornia gold.

 

Sorry to sound like a complete and utter newb (which I consider myself a good detailer but I've always stuck to just 1 product, California Gold), but when your talking sealer your talking a synthetic wax? I have some NXT down in the garage I've used maybe twice for quick touch ups and didn't care for it mainly because it was a PITA to use. So when you refer to a sealant, your referring to a synthetic type wax that is a liquid/gel/gewy substance that hardens up once you let it sit right?

 

Yes a sealer is a synthetic wax. Ive used NXT and NXT 2.0 a few times and never had a problem with it. Im able to do my whole truck then wipe it down with no problem infact it was very easy to remove. Your bottle might be old and if it gets below freezing you should bring in all your detailing materials. If they freeze it may seperate and never mix properly again. Also thin layers go a long way. I always bought the liquid and it never geled up. I dont know how much you know about detailing but another exellent sealant is Wolfgang 3.0 but its not sold in stores.
http://www.autogeek.net/wg5500.html
http://www.autogeek.net/optimum-opti-seal.html
http://www.autogeek.net/collinite-in...r-wax-845.html

 

I always thought 2 coats was more to get better coverage (in case you missed a spot) than for better protection.

But I do agree, a sealant would probable be best (the Wolfgang 3.0 DGPS linked above is awesome) or a good coat of Collinite 845 IW.

 

IMHO putting 2 coats on a vehicle only insures that it put on fully and evenly. Not that it goes on any thicker. It's easier to layer a wax over a sealant as the sealant "bonds" to the paint differently then a wax.

NXT 2.0 would be a good product for winter protection. If you are having a hard time with it, you might be putting on too much product. You need very little. Also, you should have a nice smooth surface to start with. If its rough, you may want to clay the vehicle first. This would also allow the NXT to adhere much better.

I like to use a something like Collinte 476s or Collinte 845 for winter protection.

 

As has already been stated, you can layer certain products, but here's some cautions.

- With most conventional (carnauba) waxes, two coats doesn't actually equal two layers. Generally, you just fill in any spots you missed.

- If you use a wax (or sealant) with any cleaners in it - like many of the "All in One" products available in stores, you actually remove part of the first layer (with the cleaners) when you apply the second coat.

- Some products do supposedly layer (Zaino says it does), but I haven't noticed any difference in how long it lasts.

- If you really want to try to get multiple layers, try a synthetic sealant (like NXT) followed by a conventional wax (like Collonite 476 or 845) after the sealant cures.

 

Hate two rain on NXT's parade (again) but I have personaly had poor performance and look from it. But, some of that is personal preference. NXT to me give the paint a "saran wrap" look that some people like and some people hate. I've used it on a dozen cars in several colors and with different application techniques to try to get it to work for me.

If you really want a sealant, my sugestion is Meg's #20. It's not a synthetic and give a more natural shine imho. Downside is that it has to be mail ordered.

Two coats of wax is pretty much just to ensure complete coverage. There's such a microscopic layer of wax that actually stays on the paint, 2 doesn't make much of any other difference. But complete coverage is worth the 2nd coat.

I would step up from the gold to Meg's #26. It'll last longer and work better. It's also available over the counter at most autozones.

Everything is open to personal oppinion, so as always use what works best and looks best to you. These are purely suggestions.

 

So when you say Meg's #20 and Meg's #26 which products are you talking? I've never seen a can say #20 or #26?

 

http://meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1293


check it out

Sorry about that, look for the number following the 'M'

 

I've seen this as well and many people have mentioned it. It's one of the drawbacks to NXT. This is why most people put a coat of wax over NXT... to give it more depth. I started using Opti-Seal as my sealant. It's certainly easier to apply. I can't comment yet on it's durability but I'd imagine its on par with NXT. I still put a coat of wax over it.