Passing the plastic bag test

Not to delve into the deep abyss of this topic: I've seen numerous write-up's/articles/etc showing that dish soap/Dawn does NOT strip any wax or LSP. It is the surfactants in the soap that gives the surface the appearance of being LSP free due to the sheeting and no beading that you see.

It would be crazy, in my mind, to think that a simple wash, no matter with what, (except acid or something like that) would be able to strip any type of LSP product.

Just me throwing my hat into this ring...

NastyGT500 said:

Not to delve into the deep abyss of this topic: I've seen numerous write-up's/articles/etc showing that dish soap/Dawn does NOT strip any wax or LSP. It is the surfactants in the soap that gives the surface the appearance of being LSP free due to the sheeting and no beading that you see.

It would be crazy, in my mind, to think that a simple wash, no matter with what, (except acid or something like that) would be able to strip any type of LSP product.

Just me throwing my hat into this ring...

Click to expand...

Interesting. Because if I can cut a step out I'm all for it. I've read times where people will clay during the wash and knock it all out in one step and just keep a spray bottle handy for added lubricant. That must be why they're just claying with their standard wash soap whatever brand that may be. If it's one less "prep" thing to worry about then I'm a believer haha.

- not all clay bars are the same. They vary depending on your needs. Additionally the more aggressive the clay the more likely it will "mar" your paint. So keep that n mind when you clay.

As far as dish soap goes. IF it were the only option to completely remove wax from your vehicle so you can start over I'd be an advocate. But because I deal with customers cars and not my own, and because there are many VERY good soaps out there that are as good or better than Dawn that won't also dry out your trim and moldings, I stay away from dish soap unless I'm actually doing dishes.

As far as what "brand" of product to use, you will get a TON of opinions. I use the Mike Philips philisophy. Find what works for you and use it. Some say Adams, some say Meguiars, etc etc. - just try a few products and see what works best for you. My personal rule is I usually stay away from store bought waxes and dressings. Most off the shelf waxes are cleaner waxes and have lots of fillers in them- they give you the illusion that your paint is good, until it rains. Then it looks like crap again.