dsemuk

Got a new red Impreza hatch (non metallic red)

Not wanting to go for ultimate looks, just excellent protection through the winter.

I can see the stages I need to go through...

Wash
Decontaminate
Polish
Protect

What products including cloths, pads, brushes should I put on my shopping list.

One issue I have is that I only have access to buckets of water, where my car will be cleaned so no hose pipe, power washer or "snow foam"

Ideally I just want to place one order and get the purchase over and done with, so I can get it cleaned and protected ASAP, weather seems to be particularly autumnal.

Thanks in advance.

John @ PB

Hi,

(Long post ahead!)

I recommend, if possible, using a nearby jet wash to blast the worst of the dirt off before you start the wash proper - just use the plain water jet, no detergent.

If this isn't possible, using watering cans to try to get the worst of the grime off prior to commencing hand washing.

Due to the lack of a hose or washer, you will have a higher than normal risk of marring and swirling the paint so your wash stage has to be ultra-careful.

I recommend extending the 2 bucket method (described here: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...nd-drying.html) to include more rinse buckets, or, alternatively, swap your rinse water regularly.

If you wash in accordance with our guide, you should not induce swirls.

To decontaminate, I recommend Autosmart Tardis to remove all tar and any existing protection: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...rt-tardis.html (Whilst this is a big tin, it has to be shipped in this container for legal reasons - anyone doing otherwise is breaking the law)

After this stage, claying will be beneficial and a good all in one kit is Meguiar's Quik Clay: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...-clay-kit.html

Our guide to decontamination is here: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...ing-paint.html

You cna then decide whether the paint needs polished - this will remove swirls marks and make the paint more correct but if it is not too bad, then consider going straight to protection now, and leave correction until springtime, after the worst of the weather.

If you think you still need to polish, let me know and I can advise.

For protection on solid red, a carnauba-based product is best as it'll maximise the gloss of the red. As durability appears to be very high on your list of priorities, I recommend any of the Collinite range of waxes: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...-products.html

All are extremely durable and will suit red well. I personally prefer Collinite 845as in colder weather it's easier to apply and buff off and it's very easy to apply to wheels too.

All the products have full usage instructions under the 'How to Use' tab.

In terms of tools, I recommend our basic wash kit with a shampoo such as Meguiar's Shampoo Plus: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...-kit-cat1.html as this includes a lambswool mitt for bodywork, a microfibre mitt for wheels and sills and a drying towel, and add at least 2x clear buckets: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...sh-bucket.html

You may find the Raceglaze detailing brush set useful for door shuts, wheels and interior use: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...brush-set.html and also the EZ Detail wheel brush: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...l-brushes.html

For Tardis, you'll need Work Towels: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...ork-towel.html

For Collinite application, a Last Step Product pad like Blackfire's is excellent:http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...cator-pad.html and a trio of Poorboys Super Thick & Plush towels will be useful: http://www.polishedbliss.co.uk/acata...ush-towel.html

All orders over £100 receive and additional 5% discount over and above any existing discounts (eg, the wash kit has a 10% saving)

If you need any other help, let me know - enquiries@polishedbliss.co.uk

V4JDMSTi

iTrader: (2)

Another shout for Colly on the durability front. Or the Werkstatt acrylic is very good too. If you're feeling a bit a bit flush Dodo Super Natural is very durable, lovely to work with and punches well above it's price range.

dsemuk

Thanks for the ideas guys, will be placing an order shortly, especially to John for the very detailed description.

Decided I need to get water piped to where the car is, could be fun, but in the long run easier than using buckets.