Detail first and then clear bra or visa versa?

[mattssi]

I get my car here in about 1-2 weeks, and I definitely want a clear bra.

The car won't be getting prepped from the dealer, so what is the best order for the proper cleaning and protection?

Have it detailed, then clear bra? I've read some posts where it should be the opposite since the wax (or whatever) should be applied to the bra portion, not underneath it.

Thanks!

[jtsherri]

Originally Posted by mattssi

I get my car here in about 1-2 weeks, and I definitely want a clear bra.

The car won't be getting prepped from the dealer, so what is the best order for the proper cleaning and protection?

Have it detailed, then clear bra? I've read some posts where it should be the opposite since the wax (or whatever) should be applied to the bra portion, not underneath it.

Thanks!

I don't know what the proper "order of operations" is when it comes to wax, but you DEFINITELY want to have it cleaned up prior to the bra going on... Whether it needs simple polishing or an actual compound rub all depends on how careful the car was handled, but you don't want a bunch of swirls or scratches under that bra.

I would assume it should be waxed after the fact, but will leave it up to the experts to speak on that.

[jkp1187]

The guy who applies the clear bra will have to remove wax/etc. anyway before he applies the clear bra, why not have him do the detailing work as well?

Second, if you're going with a clear bra, strongly recommend you go with the entire hood wrap. I did it, almost no lines anywhere, looks like it's just perfect paint.

[mattssi]

Originally Posted by jkp1187

The guy who applies the clear bra will have to remove wax/etc. anyway before he applies the clear bra, why not have him do the detailing work as well?

Second, if you're going with a clear bra, strongly recommend you go with the entire hood wrap. I did it, almost no lines anywhere, looks like it's just perfect paint.

I will consider that for sure. I didn't have the full hood on my IS350 and it didn't look bad, but when it got dirty, it was noticeable.

[mattssi]

Originally Posted by jtsherri

I would assume it should be waxed after the fact, but will leave it up to the experts to speak on that.

Hey!

Nice color combo btw. Nice ride and house. I'm from MI and those pic's make me miss it a little bit. Empty roads, cool air (I love fall).

Anyway, enjoy the ride before the snow ruins it all!!!!!!!

[Greg@DetailedImage]

I would wash, dry, clay bar and polish the surface and finally do an IPA wipedown before the clear bra is put on. The clay bar helps deep clean the paint and the polish will remove surface imperfections and restore a deep shine. Lastly wipe down the paint with a 50/50 mix of Isopropyl Alcohol. It will strip off any oils remaining on the surface so you get the best bonding possible of the clear bra. After it's installed you can seal and wax the paint.

Greg @ DI

[jkp1187]

Originally Posted by mattssi

I will consider that for sure. I didn't have the full hood on my IS350 and it didn't look bad, but when it got dirty, it was noticeable.

I had a "partial" on my old car, too. After 6 years, it really started to collect dirt under the edges. That was why I was willing to spring for the full hood wrap this time.