Howdy Peeps,

My 5th Gen is in need of a paint reset and I am in the process of gathering info. I noticed on youtube a guy using pads for "claying" instead of the typical hand method.

Anybody here doing the same? Any pointers on results, the technique, and products used?

TIA!
G

Hand claying is more than enough. Machine polish will be more even and faster but you should clay by hand. Good luck.

I do recall seeing clay discs for dual action polishers once upon a time, but all the non-playdoh claying mediums are for shops that may be doing multiple cars a day and are overkill/cost more than simple clay. More likely than not, they are following mechanical claying with machine compounding/polishing.

I think you're referring to the clay towels/mitts instead of the old fashioned "playdoh" clay, right?

Instead of the expensive clay towels/mitts, I use the "middle of the road" solution from Nanoskin Autoscrub Speedy Prep Sponge and only use old school clay on super delicate clearcoats. It has the inherent benefits from the clay towels in being reusable if dropped on the ground, not outrageously priced and I've been using it for the past 3-4 years. No complaints.

I use a higher concentration of regular car wash soap as clay lube.

I dunno clay and machine don't sound friendly.

I'll stick with hand claying it doesn't take that long.

This is the kit I use: Meguiar's(R) Smooth Surface™ Clay Kit, G1016, Kit | Meguiar's.

Comes with a detailing spray that doubles as a clay lubricant. Has a lot of clay and is easy to use. I've used it 3 times now and works fantastic.

I agree about a rotary and pad, that sound like a good way to burn your paint or send clay flying around the garage.