Best leather conditioner for supple leather+dash?

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May 30, 2006 | 12:32 PM
  #1  
I have some stuff I used to use on my M3 but I want to use the best stuff on my tt. Currently have lexol conditioner, leatherique rejuvenator and cleaner, and some meguirs conditioner. What the best stuff out there?
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May 30, 2006 | 12:53 PM
  #2  
IMO Zaino (Z-10) is the best for conditioning and smell. For the dash or areas that get direct sun, I use Aerospace 303. I have used the products you list and these are better!
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May 30, 2006 | 01:12 PM
  #3  
I like how easy Lexol is applied. I had their wipes and it takes 5 min to do the whole car.

I picked up a Zymol at Target for $6.99. I am very skeptical of Zymol's stuff as I tend to like synthetic polish etc that lasts. I tried it on my hand at the store and felt it was pretty good. I have it on my cab now. It's a cream so it takes some time to apply it evenly. It seems to condition the leather well. Lexol feels like it had more chemical ingridients in comparison.

I have yet to try Zaino. I heard their leather conditioner is preferred by many. Being a Zaino polish user for years, I will eventually pick up one during my next big order.

I tend to think the least accessible product as probly better. Stuff you find in Kragen and Pepboys are just average IMO.

PS: 303 is used for fabric only right? Is it leather safe?
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May 30, 2006 | 01:12 PM
  #4  
i have used the lexol, but prefer the 303 stuff i have now, i use the carpet protectant, and vinyl and leather uv protectant. i wash with a 6:1 ratio water: woolite. I got this woolite idea from "deanski" on rennlist and it works great, he also strongly recommended the zaino stuff for low shine, smell, etc.
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May 30, 2006 | 04:39 PM
  #5  
DO NOT use conditioner on the dash. Porasche clearly states this because the leather used on the dash is specially dried out to face the heat.
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May 30, 2006 | 07:17 PM
  #6  
Quote: DO NOT use conditioner on the dash. Porasche clearly states this because the leather used on the dash is specially dried out to face the heat.
Actually could you show me where it says this from Porsche? The aero 303 is not a leather softener/conditioner (which is what you do not want to use on the dash). It protects from UV which is what you want.
Quote:
PS: 303 is used for fabric only right? Is it leather safe?
Yes it is safe for leather. Try it and you will be amazed at the finish it gives and the durabilty.
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May 30, 2006 | 10:35 PM
  #7  
yeah I really like the 303, it is definitely not a conditioner...
the one i use for the leather/vinyl is pretty much safe for any surface, but i have a different one which is made especially for carpet/fabric also.
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May 31, 2006 | 12:01 AM
  #8  
Zaino on the seats for sure. I mostly just dust my dash (vacuum and a paint brush), anything you apply to it usually glares, and will bake in the sun leaving a greasy film on the inside of the windshield. If it has some smudge, I'll wipe it with a damp chamois.
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May 31, 2006 | 06:46 AM
  #9  
I was told this by my Porsche rep and I recall reading it here as well. The explanation is simple, by dehidrating the leather they reduce temperature induced size variation being less prone to cracking on the long run.
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Jul 12, 2006 | 08:15 PM
  #10  
so whats the consensus for the dash? wipe it with 303 or leave it alone ?
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Jul 12, 2006 | 08:25 PM
  #11  
I'm certain there is not consensus, however I live in CO and we get some serious sun and my dash looks great. I use 303 as I said above.
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Jul 12, 2006 | 09:09 PM
  #12  
www.griotsgarage.com
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Jul 12, 2006 | 10:04 PM
  #13  
To clean I use Spinneybeck only when needed. For protection and maintenance I use 303 as well. It leaves a nice satin look as oppose to shiny/wet which I hate.
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Jul 12, 2006 | 10:54 PM
  #14  
303 on the dash Zaino on the rest..make sure though if its dirty you used the Zaino cleaner first...Actually Zaino is the best all the way down the line...BTW who do you guys use for wheels?
JB
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Jul 13, 2006 | 08:20 AM
  #15  
I've been using the Zaino lether cleaner and conditioner for the past 3 years and it works and "smells" great. After I use the stuff I have people ask if the car is brand new because of the new leather smell. Great stuff Zaino!!

For Wheels use 409 Metal Cleaner, it was designed to clean oil off of stainless appliances and OMG does the stuff work great on wheels. It takes brake dust off the rims really well. It's Purple in color so you can't miss it.

Rob
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