What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, if you run your hand over your car's paint and it feels like 80-grit sandpaper, a normal wash just won't cut it. This guide covers how to use a clay bar to pull out all that stubborn crap like rail dust, sap, and salt spray. Whether you're prepping for a ceramic coating or just want your daily driver to shine, I'll walk you through the process I've used for over 15 years in the trade.
Why Bother with a Clay Bar?
The Gear You'll Need
What You'll Need
Prepping the Surface
Deep Clean Wash
Give the car a proper wash using the two-bucket method. You want to get every bit of loose dirt off first. If you leave grit on there and start claying, you'll just scratch the hell out of your paint. Made this mistake myself on a black Commodore years ago, never again.
Chemical Decon
Spray an iron remover on the dry paint. Let it dwell for 3-5 minutes (don't let it dry!). You'll see it turn purple as it reacts with brake dust. Rinse it off thoroughly.
Dry the Car
I usually dry the car before claying so the lubricant doesn't get diluted, but some blokes like to clay while it's still wet. Honestly, I reckon drying gives you a better look at what you're dealing with.
While you're here...
Watch Out
How to Clay Bar Like a Pro
Knead the Clay
Take a piece of clay and flatten it out into a patty about the size of two fingers. If it's a cold morning, chuck it in a cup of warm water for a minute to soften it up.
Lube it Up
Spray a generous amount of clay lubricant onto a small section of the paint (about 40cm x 40cm). You want it dripping wet. No dramas if you use too much, but if you use too little, the clay will grab and smear.
Light Pressure
Gently glide the clay over the lubricated area using back-and-forth motions. Don't go in circles. You don't need to push hard; let the clay do the work.
Listen and Feel
At first, you'll hear a 'scritch-scritch' sound and feel resistance. That's the clay hitting the contaminants. Keep going until the clay glides silently and smoothly. That's when you know it's clean.
Check the Clay
After every section, look at the bottom of the clay. If it's looking brown or grey, fold it over and knead it to a clean surface.
Wipe Clean
Wipe the lubricant off with a clean microfibre towel before it dries. Check your work with the 'plastic bag test' (put your hand in a sandwich bag and feel the paint, it magnifies any remaining grit).
Work Top to Bottom
Start with the roof and bonnet, then move down to the doors. The lower panels are always the filthiest, so leave them for last.
Glass and Lights
Don't forget your windscreen and headlights! Claying the glass gets rid of that annoying film that makes your wipers squeak. It works wonders on old bug guts too.
The Aussie Heat Factor
Clay Bars vs. Clay Mitts
What Happens Next?
Common Questions
How often should I clay bar my car?
Can I use dish soap as a lubricant?
Will a clay bar remove scratches?
Do I need to wash the car again after claying?
Closing Thoughts
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