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Posted: 1/7/2015 1:20:12 PM EDT
What are some of your favorite automotive products that you like to use?  I'm talking about cleaners, waxes, additives, specialized tools, etc that you like because they work well.

Two off the top of my head:

Einzett Kristall Klar Washer Fluid concentrate
In my experience it does seem to wash better than the cheap blue washer fluid.  Plus it has a nice scent and is available in a winter anti-frost version.

Black Magic 2-in-1 Engine Shine
I love this stuff.  It's easy to use and does not leave everything looking greasy or have a fake shine (like used car lots that hose everything down with ArmorAll).  It says "shines" but honestly it simply leaves everything looking new without any residue.  I like my engine bay to look like it did when it was brand new and this stuff is perfect for that.
Link Posted: 1/7/2015 2:18:35 PM EDT
[#1]
Seafoam. I don't know what the hell it does but dammit I love it
Link Posted: 1/7/2015 4:37:27 PM EDT
[#2]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Seafoam. I don't know what the hell it does but dammit I love it
View Quote


Over at Bobistheoilguy.com...they call this snake oil...
I was a fan for years, guys on here and over at BITOG recommend better stuff...can't think of the name now...
Link Posted: 1/7/2015 4:42:17 PM EDT
[#3]
Car wash Meguiar's Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo

Windshield washer fluid Rain-X

and I also make a bunch of homemade cleaners using vinegar, washing soda, borax, Dawn Ultra...Google has 87 recipes.
Link Posted: 1/7/2015 6:45:39 PM EDT
[#4]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Over at Bobistheoilguy.com...they call this snake oil...
I was a fan for years, guys on here and over at BITOG recommend better stuff...can't think of the name now...
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
Seafoam. I don't know what the hell it does but dammit I love it


Over at Bobistheoilguy.com...they call this snake oil...
I was a fan for years, guys on here and over at BITOG recommend better stuff...can't think of the name now...


I started buying the cheaper Berryman brand stuff to keep my cars guts clean. That could be snake oil, too but at least it's cheaper snake oil. I like reading the BITOG forums when I'm not on arfcom
Link Posted: 1/7/2015 7:13:11 PM EDT
[#5]
GM top end cleaner.
Carb/brake cleaner.
Zipties for holding various plastic panels onto the car.
Harbor freight aluminum racing jacks.   Seriously.   I have not found anything better for the price.
JB weld epoxy.
A MIG and TIG welder.
Link Posted: 1/7/2015 7:58:27 PM EDT
[#6]
Kroil
Link Posted: 1/7/2015 9:24:34 PM EDT
[#7]
Ozium
Link Posted: 1/7/2015 11:12:24 PM EDT
[#8]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Ozium
View Quote



I too use Ozium..and just started using the Ozium Outdoor Scent tub of goo

Posted an Amazon link but our local stores sell this for $3.50...much more pleasant than regular spray Ozium and it lasts a long time...I put it under the seat of two rigs.
Link Posted: 1/8/2015 8:47:46 PM EDT
[#9]
Link Posted: 1/8/2015 10:29:52 PM EDT
[#10]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Kroil
View Quote


This. Got a big spray can for Christmas. It is waiting as a backup to my many cans of Liquid Wrench.
Link Posted: 1/8/2015 10:55:11 PM EDT
[#11]
Optimum products (Opti-Coat, ONR)
Meguiars products
Aquapel
Link Posted: 1/8/2015 11:23:51 PM EDT
[#12]
Marvel Mystery Oil
Kroil
Brake Cleaner (the flammable kind)
Rain-X, the additive you just dump into your washer fluid tank
Bosch Icon wiper blades
DieHard Platinum batteries (really a Odyssey)
Michelin tires
OEM brake shoes and pads because I'm learning that most auto parts stores' products are substandard in the brake arena
Purolator PureOne oil filters
Blackstone Labs used oil analysis
Any transmission fluid that is Allison TES-295 approved. (it's awesome in older GM transmission that require Dexron III.)
Link Posted: 1/9/2015 12:06:24 AM EDT
[#13]
Zip ties
Link Posted: 1/9/2015 1:34:52 AM EDT
[#14]
I like the new nanoskin clay pads and towels.

Makes claying your car easy.
Link Posted: 1/9/2015 7:53:00 AM EDT
[#15]
Daytona wheel brush.
Aquapel is awesome but I've got a couple of tubes of Glass Science Rain Clear gel to use up first.
Link Posted: 1/9/2015 10:43:20 AM EDT
[#16]
a mother loving 12V impact wrench. A la the Milwaukee M12 line

Not specifically a car product, but I use this tool more than almost any other when working on my cars.

Following that.....
Detailer's Domain microfiber towels
Meguiers liquid wax (comes in a purple bottle)
Bosch Icon / Rain - x One piece wiper blades
Mechanix gloves / Black nitril gloves
Link Posted: 1/9/2015 10:48:43 AM EDT
[#17]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Daytona wheel brush.
Aquapel is awesome but I've got a couple of tubes of Glass Science Rain Clear gel to use up first.
View Quote



Thanks for that...I have been searching for something that works and lasts...Daytona Brush rated good at autogeeks...
Link Posted: 1/9/2015 1:20:32 PM EDT
[#18]
Link Posted: 1/9/2015 1:24:36 PM EDT
[#19]
Chevron Techron
Thats it.
I don't wax them anymore, just run it through the car wash.
Link Posted: 1/9/2015 1:25:55 PM EDT
[#20]
Link Posted: 1/10/2015 1:03:10 PM EDT
[#21]
For wax I'm trying a synthetic (vs. Carnuba) this time...Mothers synthetic liquid...I'll report back.

Anyone have a recommendation for a good general degreaser? Not engine stuff. Need it in a spray bottle for quick cleanups around the shop/garage.
Using Simple Green now...would like something stronger (non-chlorinated)...perhaps I should use SG full strength?
Link Posted: 1/10/2015 7:48:06 PM EDT
[#22]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
a mother loving 12V impact wrench. A la the Milwaukee M12 line
View Quote


My Milwaukee is a bad m_____ f______. Just as powerful as my pneumatic IR. Those cordless impacts are no joke.
Link Posted: 1/10/2015 8:36:08 PM EDT
[#23]
Link Posted: 1/10/2015 11:57:09 PM EDT
[#24]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
For wax I'm trying a synthetic (vs. Carnuba) this time...Mothers synthetic liquid...I'll report back.

Anyone have a recommendation for a good general degreaser? Not engine stuff. Need it in a spray bottle for quick cleanups around the shop/garage.
Using Simple Green now...would like something stronger (non-chlorinated)...perhaps I should use SG full strength?
View Quote


Try some Collinite 845, or 476s double coat for a wax.

for a degreaser try Zep 505. or if you have dollar generals nearby look for LA's Totally awesome. comes in a spray bottle on its own or buy it in 64oz jugs. i think its $2-3 for 64oz

I use a few different things as far as car care goes including the above APCs and waxes.
Quite a few things from Meguiars Detailers line, NanoSkin, Chemical Guys, Menzerna, Sonax, CarPro, Wolfgang, Detailers Pro, etc. I don't use many over the counter products.

Link Posted: 1/11/2015 6:27:43 AM EDT
[#25]


For all the little metal clips holding hoses on.
Link Posted: 1/11/2015 6:32:53 AM EDT
[#26]
Link Posted: 1/11/2015 10:42:41 AM EDT
[#27]
Brake cleaner by far , we used a ton of it racing it keeps everything clean and makes it easy to find leaks.
Link Posted: 1/11/2015 1:38:25 PM EDT
[#28]
Link Posted: 1/11/2015 1:49:17 PM EDT
[#29]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


Try some Collinite 845, or 476s double coat for a wax.

for a degreaser try Zep 505. or if you have dollar generals nearby look for LA's Totally awesome. comes in a spray bottle on its own or buy it in 64oz jugs. i think its $2-3 for 64oz

I use a few different things as far as car care goes including the above APCs and waxes.
Quite a few things from Meguiars Detailers line, NanoSkin, Chemical Guys, Menzerna, Sonax, CarPro, Wolfgang, Detailers Pro, etc. I don't use many over the counter products.

View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
For wax I'm trying a synthetic (vs. Carnuba) this time...Mothers synthetic liquid...I'll report back.

Anyone have a recommendation for a good general degreaser? Not engine stuff. Need it in a spray bottle for quick cleanups around the shop/garage.
Using Simple Green now...would like something stronger (non-chlorinated)...perhaps I should use SG full strength?


Try some Collinite 845, or 476s double coat for a wax.

for a degreaser try Zep 505. or if you have dollar generals nearby look for LA's Totally awesome. comes in a spray bottle on its own or buy it in 64oz jugs. i think its $2-3 for 64oz

I use a few different things as far as car care goes including the above APCs and waxes.
Quite a few things from Meguiars Detailers line, NanoSkin, Chemical Guys, Menzerna, Sonax, CarPro, Wolfgang, Detailers Pro, etc. I don't use many over the counter products.




I did a little research online yesterday at several degreaser mfg websites...
Much of the stuff out there (home depot carries a pretty good variety) is harmful to some surfaces (vinyl, aluminium, and others).
I checked out the ZEP 505 and actually got a small bottle to try...
I did buy a gallon concentrate of Simple Green Heavy Duty Pro...safe for a lot of surfaces. Tried it at 3:1 and cleaned up an old grease gun (that is a test). Worked great.

Also picked up a bottle of 303 Aerospace...anyone use this and where on your rig?
Link Posted: 1/11/2015 6:45:40 PM EDT
[#30]
Anti-sieze.
Link Posted: 1/11/2015 6:54:52 PM EDT
[#31]
Just about all Meguiars products, great luck with everything and it's available local, lots of great stuff out there but if you have to order online and have it shipped that's a huge negative for me.

Collinite 845, a rare exception to my above rule, stuff is absolutely fantastic. A bottle will last for years!
Link Posted: 1/11/2015 7:25:10 PM EDT
[#32]
Kroil, a gallon would probably be capable of covering the earth

PB Blaster, just because it works and you can find it anywhere in a pinch, unlike Kroil

Pinnacle Bodywork Shampoo, expensive enough that I should probably have my head examined but its just that much better than cheap ass carwash

Clay bar, I've always used the commonly available types, but it makes a huge difference in the finish of your paint
Link Posted: 1/11/2015 7:31:03 PM EDT
[#33]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:



I did a little research online yesterday at several degreaser mfg websites...
Much of the stuff out there (home depot carries a pretty good variety) is harmful to some surfaces (vinyl, aluminium, and others).
I checked out the ZEP 505 and actually got a small bottle to try...
I did buy a gallon concentrate of Simple Green Heavy Duty Pro...safe for a lot of surfaces. Tried it at 3:1 and cleaned up an old grease gun (that is a test). Worked great.

Also picked up a bottle of 303 Aerospace...anyone use this and where on your rig?
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
For wax I'm trying a synthetic (vs. Carnuba) this time...Mothers synthetic liquid...I'll report back.

Anyone have a recommendation for a good general degreaser? Not engine stuff. Need it in a spray bottle for quick cleanups around the shop/garage.
Using Simple Green now...would like something stronger (non-chlorinated)...perhaps I should use SG full strength?


Try some Collinite 845, or 476s double coat for a wax.

for a degreaser try Zep 505. or if you have dollar generals nearby look for LA's Totally awesome. comes in a spray bottle on its own or buy it in 64oz jugs. i think its $2-3 for 64oz

I use a few different things as far as car care goes including the above APCs and waxes.
Quite a few things from Meguiars Detailers line, NanoSkin, Chemical Guys, Menzerna, Sonax, CarPro, Wolfgang, Detailers Pro, etc. I don't use many over the counter products.




I did a little research online yesterday at several degreaser mfg websites...
Much of the stuff out there (home depot carries a pretty good variety) is harmful to some surfaces (vinyl, aluminium, and others).
I checked out the ZEP 505 and actually got a small bottle to try...
I did buy a gallon concentrate of Simple Green Heavy Duty Pro...safe for a lot of surfaces. Tried it at 3:1 and cleaned up an old grease gun (that is a test). Worked great.

Also picked up a bottle of 303 Aerospace...anyone use this and where on your rig?


I've been using 303 as an interior product.  If it really dirty I will clean it first, then apply the 303 over the dash, cupholders, shift lever boot, etc.  Basically all the plastic and vinyl.  I haven't used it long enough to make any comments about it long-term, but I'm happy with it so far.  
Link Posted: 1/11/2015 9:21:48 PM EDT
[#34]
Another 303 user, interior & under hood mostly.
Doesn't seem to last long on tires and exterior plastic trim although I'll use it on them occasionally.
Link Posted: 1/12/2015 12:36:09 AM EDT
[#35]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:



I did a little research online yesterday at several degreaser mfg websites...
Much of the stuff out there (home depot carries a pretty good variety) is harmful to some surfaces (vinyl, aluminium, and others).
I checked out the ZEP 505 and actually got a small bottle to try...
I did buy a gallon concentrate of Simple Green Heavy Duty Pro...safe for a lot of surfaces. Tried it at 3:1 and cleaned up an old grease gun (that is a test). Worked great.

Also picked up a bottle of 303 Aerospace...anyone use this and where on your rig?
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
For wax I'm trying a synthetic (vs. Carnuba) this time...Mothers synthetic liquid...I'll report back.

Anyone have a recommendation for a good general degreaser? Not engine stuff. Need it in a spray bottle for quick cleanups around the shop/garage.
Using Simple Green now...would like something stronger (non-chlorinated)...perhaps I should use SG full strength?


Try some Collinite 845, or 476s double coat for a wax.

for a degreaser try Zep 505. or if you have dollar generals nearby look for LA's Totally awesome. comes in a spray bottle on its own or buy it in 64oz jugs. i think its $2-3 for 64oz

I use a few different things as far as car care goes including the above APCs and waxes.
Quite a few things from Meguiars Detailers line, NanoSkin, Chemical Guys, Menzerna, Sonax, CarPro, Wolfgang, Detailers Pro, etc. I don't use many over the counter products.




I did a little research online yesterday at several degreaser mfg websites...
Much of the stuff out there (home depot carries a pretty good variety) is harmful to some surfaces (vinyl, aluminium, and others).
I checked out the ZEP 505 and actually got a small bottle to try...
I did buy a gallon concentrate of Simple Green Heavy Duty Pro...safe for a lot of surfaces. Tried it at 3:1 and cleaned up an old grease gun (that is a test). Worked great.

Also picked up a bottle of 303 Aerospace...anyone use this and where on your rig?


yeah, some stuff you have to watch what you use it on. it's all dilutable to suit your needs though. i use the 505 straight to clean tires, mudflaps, plastic wheel wells and greasy dirty door sills . it's really good at deep cleaning the rubber and stripping old dressings.  ive only messed with LATA on household things and not vehicles yet. they make a Citrus 505 that i've read people use on the wheels and tires.
another one i use on wheels is Meguiars D143 non acid wheel and tire cleaner. it works very well at a good price point 15.99/gal. i'll get twelve 32oz bottles out of a gallon. can't use it on bare aluminum though.

Interior plastics and vinyl cleaning i'm using Chemical Guys All Clean at 20:1, 10:1, and 5:1 depending on how dirty. I also use Meguiars Quick Interior Detailer and Chemical Guys Silk Shine. I really like Silk Shine for dressing interior plastics. Leaves a really nice lasting shine and a clean scent that lasts a good while. i've never used 303 myself but only hear good things about it.

the key to buying from online places like AutoGeek or Autopia is watching for sales. a lot of times you'll get a cheap flat rate shipping or free shipping on orders over a certain amount, then almost always a percentage discount anywhere from 10-25%.  I get a lot of stuff from Amazon as well taking advantage of the Prime shipping.

Link Posted: 1/12/2015 10:50:34 AM EDT
[#36]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:


I love that stuff.
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I have used Sonax too.  Good stuff, surprised at how well it works.
Link Posted: 1/12/2015 11:20:25 AM EDT
[#37]
I use Stanadyne in all my rigs (diesels), may be bs but they seem to run better with it.

Craftsman 19.2v impact wrench. It will make tire changes way easier.

Montezuma tool boxes. These things are the best at keeping your tools organized and easy to get too.

Link Posted: 1/25/2015 10:22:50 PM EDT
[#38]
Was researching lately on the internet on how to best clean the outside of aluminum engines.  Found some recommendations to use CLR type household cleaner to clean aluminum.  I gave it a try and it worked great.  Cleaned up some tarnished aluminum on my new truck.  

This is what I used.

I didn't let it stay on the engine very long though.  

Followed it up with some Black Magic 2 in 1 Engine Shine as posted by the OP.  Engine looks great.
Link Posted: 1/25/2015 11:29:22 PM EDT
[#39]
Iron-X
GTechniq G1
Link Posted: 1/26/2015 10:09:00 AM EDT
[#40]
I ordered and tried some EinZett Cockpit Premium last week.  I like it, smells good and left no residue or shine on my interior.  Supposedly has some sun blocking agents in it too.
Link Posted: 1/26/2015 8:47:55 PM EDT
[#41]
lately I have fallen in love with my mini-ductor.

http://www.theinductor.com/index.php?m=50&s=24

It's so much easier than dragging a torch around.
Link Posted: 1/27/2015 1:59:16 AM EDT
[#42]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
lately I have fallen in love with my mini-ductor.
http://www.theinductor.com/index.php?m=50&s=24
It's so much easier than dragging a torch around.
View Quote

Neat
Link Posted: 1/27/2015 6:22:18 PM EDT
[#43]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Car wash Meguiar's Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo

Windshield washer fluid Rain-X

and I also make a bunch of homemade cleaners using vinegar, washing soda, borax, Dawn Ultra...Google has 87 recipes.
View Quote



Yeah, those are not good products.

The rainX adds TONS of hazing to the windshield.

That is Maguiars worst car wash "soap"; use the bright yellow stuff they make.  It's the best soap I've used hands down.
Link Posted: 1/27/2015 6:38:34 PM EDT
[#44]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
OEM brake shoes and pads because I'm learning that most auto parts stores' products are substandard in the brake arena
View Quote

There's a lot of truth to that statement.

Also:

Armor All wipes
Armor All tire foam
Craftsman 3/8" drive long handled flex ratchet
Craftsman 1/2" drive ratchet and socket set
A good creeper
Mechanic's seat on wheels
Funnel made from a 2 liter soda bottle
PB Blaster penetrating oil


Link Posted: 1/27/2015 7:33:49 PM EDT
[#45]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:



Yeah, those are not good products.

The rainX adds TONS of hazing to the windshield.

That is Maguiars worst car wash "soap"; use the bright yellow stuff they make.  It's the best soap I've used hands down.
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
Car wash Meguiar's Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo

Windshield washer fluid Rain-X

and I also make a bunch of homemade cleaners using vinegar, washing soda, borax, Dawn Ultra...Google has 87 recipes.



Yeah, those are not good products.

The rainX adds TONS of hazing to the windshield.

That is Maguiars worst car wash "soap"; use the bright yellow stuff they make.  It's the best soap I've used hands down.



This for car wash? Wash and Wax
Crap... I've used Turtle Wax car soap for 35 years and bought the McG. on recommendations...

I'm open for suggestions on wiper fluid also...
Link Posted: 1/27/2015 8:31:57 PM EDT
[#46]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:



This for car wash? Wash and Wax
Crap... I've used Turtle Wax car soap for 35 years and bought the McG. on recommendations...

I'm open for suggestions on wiper fluid also...
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Quoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
Car wash Meguiar's Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo

Windshield washer fluid Rain-X

and I also make a bunch of homemade cleaners using vinegar, washing soda, borax, Dawn Ultra...Google has 87 recipes.



Yeah, those are not good products.

The rainX adds TONS of hazing to the windshield.

That is Maguiars worst car wash "soap"; use the bright yellow stuff they make.  It's the best soap I've used hands down.



This for car wash? Wash and Wax
Crap... I've used Turtle Wax car soap for 35 years and bought the McG. on recommendations...

I'm open for suggestions on wiper fluid also...



I'm a fan of CG this for pre wax washes and this if you recently waxed
Link Posted: 2/9/2015 7:36:34 PM EDT
[#47]
OK...so I purchased some Mothers Synthetic Car Wax. Easiest wax I have ever applied and removed...Did two rigs 9 days ago.
Not impressed with this wax...not the typical beading I see when using a carnuba wax...

oh well...live and learn. Going back out shopping tonight for car wax.

regarding washer fluid...for the life of me I cannot see a haze on my glass using the liquid Rain-X premixed washer fluid..Did two road trips (90 and 50 miles on freeway) over the past week and only used my wipers when there was congestion on the freeway...My glass looks really clean, can't see any streaks, haze, duck butter...
Link Posted: 2/10/2015 12:28:14 AM EDT
[#48]
Lots of good stuff posted already.  I've had one of these for 10+ years  and use it for all kinds of random things, still works great.  

http://powertank.com/products/sfID1/13/productID/76
Link Posted: 2/11/2015 11:10:22 AM EDT
[#49]
Link Posted: 3/26/2015 12:03:42 AM EDT
[#50]
I bought and tried a "tire dressing" based on Amazon's reviews...
Not a fan of shinny tires I tried 3M Tire Restore and like the results.

Clean looking, non-wet finish, and easily applied with an old "wax applicator", cotton cloth round pad ... worth a look for those looking for similar. We'll see how long the look lasts with time and washing's.
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