Clay Bar Questions

[Bandit Runner]

Is there anything special about the clay in the claybar kits? The kits are so expensive, and all I really need is the clay. Could I just use some modeling clay from the craft store? Or is this a completely different kind of clay?

Is there anyplace to purchase just the clay, or do you have to buy the whole kit?

 

[20034RunnerV84x2]

When you clay a cars paint, it has to have some form of lube. Just buy the whole kit, it makes it all shiny.

 

[argar865]

Check Griot´s Garage (GOOGLE IT)

 

[4ever4running]

I'm not sure if the clay bar is any different from modeling clay (or other types of clay)...However, I do know that you DO need some kind of lubricant because it will allow the clay bar to glide across the surface and pick up any dirt, grime, residue, etc. You don't need any special lubricant though, a spray detailer will work just fine.

 

[Matt's 97 runner]

It is a different clay... Try to find a detailing supply store. You can usually buy just clay bars there. They are usually more aggressive than the kits at the store also.

 

[Bandit Runner]

Thanks for the responses. I know I need lubricant, as I've clayed many times before. I just usually use dish soap and water for that. I was mainly trying to find a cheaper source for the clay.

 

[hoe_nah]

I wouldn't go "cheap" on clay ESP if u have a black vehicle. Marring will most likely happen, and also I would use a better product than just dish soap for better lube

 

[Lineman]

I see all your mods, nice Runner too. I'm thinking you can afford some decent clay.. Griots, even Meguiar's. You get what you pay for with detailing products.

 

[Nashvillerunner]

Just go to your local Advanced Auto or Autozone and purchase the Megiuars claybar kit. It comes with the claybar, one towel and I believe the exterior detailing spray when you apply the claybar. Just make sure that the part of the truck you are claybarring is lubricated with the detailing spray. I would also recommend getting some very good wax. You get what you pay for. Go to www.autopia.org and browse the forums and you can get tons of info from there. I use poorboysworld.com and their products are AWESOME. They are a tad pricey but very much worth it.

 

[itgogitrev]

Meguair's Clay kit is pretty decent. I felt that the Mother's clay turned too soft too fast, kept having to throw it in the freezer. BlackFire clay kit is junk, the clay turns to snot halfway through a job.

Oddly enough, my favorite combo is Clay Magic Blue (super cheap) and Adam's Detailer for the lubricant.

 

[lovemy4Runr]

Is there anything special about the clay in the claybar kits? The kits are so expensive, and all I really need is the clay. Could I just use some modeling clay from the craft store? Or is this a completely different kind of clay?

Is there anyplace to purchase just the clay, or do you have to buy the whole kit?

O'reileys Auto parts store sells claybars in a single pack.:thumb3:

 

[Desert Fox]

I had my hands in all different kinds of clay in high school. Clay can be verry different in the makup inclusing the abrasiveness. Be careful on what you are rubbing against your cars paint.

I am a pretty cheap person but there are some areas that I would rather spend a little more money and get a better product.
Check out this link Zaino Store
I have used carnuba wax for 40 years and was very happy with the results. Then I tried Zaino products- what a difference. The entire experience has been better- application, protection even washing. The dirt does not adhere to the car as easy, a light rain is like a car wash.

I am now sold on this stuff. They sell a clay bar by its self and sell a lubricant as well.

You should get away from using dish soap. It does not have any value for automotive paint other than stripping the wax off.

I spent $80 on my first order of Zaino products, including clay.
I have waxed my runner several times and my wifes FJ once (she wont let me drive it so......). I have enough product left for about another 6 months and I wax about once a month.

I was dedicated to carnuba wax but not any more, this stuff is excellent

 

[hoe_nah]

Zaino products are top notch and so is the price lol...I've just recently got serious about detailing.
Visit pakshak.com I'm from Hawaii so they are my local dealers. They got some great microfibers