Hi;

At a minimum, how often should one wax their truck bar extreme environmental conditions? I do park the truck outside all the time.

Shortly after I picked up my 2010 F150 I washed and dryed it then put on a coat of NXT. The following weekend I washed and dryed it again and put on a coat of carnuba. Since then I have maintained the appearance with quik detailer. In general, how often would you recommend I go back and NXT then a week later carnuba the paint?

 

Here's a tip that will greatly extend the time between rewaxing - instead of using quik detailer, use Ultimate Quik Wax after each wash.

I'd do a complete detail once a year - wash, clay, correct, wax - if you use the quik wax.

 

While each situation is different, I'd say most vehicle's don't need to be waxed more then every 3 months. I'd say in harsh conditions, every 3-4 months. For most people every 5-6 months would be fine.

 

While I generally agree with about 3 months, one must realize that you can totally remove a coat of wax by simply washing the truck just once with the wrong detergent - like dish soap. That would then mean you'd have to re-wax it the very next day. Hopefully, this hasn't happened to you.

I also agree that using a product like Meg's UQW or Optimum Spray Wax every time you wash will extend the life of any wax.

 

that Optimum Spray Wax is some good stuff.

 

you got that right and glc is right on with his tip.

 

Appreciate the tips.

 

The new Megs Ultimate Wash & Wax actually works too. That and the UQW are both available on the shelf at most Walmarts.

 

I'll second that. Great stuff.

 

When I finally get to detailing my truck should I wash first with dish detergent to remove the old wax before I clay bar, paint correct and re-wax?

 

As a base sealant I always do 2 coats of NXT back to back (letting the first dry completely) to ensure even and complete application.

Carnuba waxes in summer months may last 30 days or so. Synthetics like NXT may last up to 90 days. NXT will usually last longer if it is topped by something else. Durability of both will depend on on things like how often you wash, type and concentration of carwash, OAT, and how much you park in the sun versus shade. There is no real rule of thumb. Some say when you rub you finger on wet paint and hear squeaking your protection is gone but that never worked for me. I hear squeaking nearly all the time and know I still have wax protection.

With NXT, see how it sheets water after a fresh application...when sheeting starts to diminish it's time. Freshly applied carnuba also has a way the water beads and runs off. When that diminishes...it's time.
I wouldn't because claybar is going to remove most of the old wax.
Many competent detailers I know use dish detergent to strip wax before a major compound/polish but for regular re-waxing I would just trust the chemicals and solvents in the wax or sealants. If I was really concerned about residual contaminants I would do a 50/50 mix of Isopropyl Alcohol (90%) and water microfiber wipedown of the paint only.

You also have to consider when you wash/strip your vehicle paint with dish detergent you are also stripping ALL the rubber, selas and plastics of their manufactured protective coatings and any protectants you may have applied.

 

Me because I am really OCD about my stuff, I wax my truck once a month. I just got done waxing it last night, and I might put another coat on in Nov. if its still nice.

 

Good choice on the UQD. You could also use on occasion, Ultimate Quik Wax (UQW) a mist and wipe wax also from Meguiar's. Both products use the hydrophobic polymers for boosting the NXT's protection.