I always do my major paint correction work in the winter. Warm metal and waxes don't mix so I would recommend doing your hard core stuff in the winter while your child is put away and then touch up work (clay and spray wax) during warmer months.

 

Personally I wouldn't want to be working on my paint if it's colder than 50 degrees. Heat isn't the enemy as much as humidity - which is usually a problem in south Florida where I live, so that's somewhat geo dependant. Given good washing & drying technique, you probably don't have to compound unless really necessary and polish not more than 1x-2x a year.

 

Oh, I'm talking about inside my garage. Ha ha too damn cold to do that kind of work outside here in Sibeiriatlanta. It was 74 today, 5 days ago we were iced over. Lovely.

 

BTW invest in some good LED lighting so you can see properly in your garage.

 

Agreed, and I use a Brinkmann Inspection Light to evaluate paint condition and to spot any scratches or swirls that need correcting. Can't have to much light in the garage.

 

I ended up using Opti-Coat 2.0 on my Platinum Satin wheels. I was nervous about messing up the Satin finish by putting a coating on the wheels. I tested the inside lip to see how it looked prior to doing the rest of the wheel. It turned a tiny shade darker, but didn't change the sheen. Being a relatively permanent coating, I shouldn't have to mess with it again. It beads water well and helps keep the dust from bonding.

I pressure wash dirt and rotors with my Kranzle Pressure washer, spray with Sonax, and let sit.

I use these tools:

http://www.griotsgarage.com/product/...ortby=ourPicks

http://www.swissvax.us/merchant.mvc?...de=ACCESSORIES

http://www.detailersdomain.com/Wheel...Kit_p_721.html

Hose off, use Adam's APC on the tires, hose off again.

Just before blow drying the car I use this awesome stuff to help with the rust.

http://www.detailersdomain.com/Hydes...per_p_947.html

 

Great info. Seems like there is lots of good stuff out there to use.

 

Another autogeek - a man after my own heart.

 

Speaking of Autogeek. I was just down in Stuart taking Mike's 2-day pro detailing class at Autogeek's warehouse. It was pretty awesome.

 

That's awesome. Mike P is the man - no doubt of that. Wish I knew what he's forgotten. haha. Anyway, I've considered taking the class since I'm only about 1 hour south of their offices, but I've learned so much from reading, Mike & Nick that I feel pretty good about taking care of my two cars. I've driven up there before and Nick has inspected my paint (with a Brinkmann) and gave his blessing, so I know I'm on the right track. And once you got the paint swirl free, it's a matter of good maintenance. But I've heard the class is terrific.

 

Something to keep in mind: Wheel and tire cleaners/protectors (i.e. Armor All) can contaminate your brake pucks. Apply judiciously. . .

 

I took the class and learned a few cool tips and tricks, but I used it more of a confirmation that I have been doing the right stuff. I sure wish I took a class like that ten years ago. It would have save me a look of trial, error, and cash.