Polishing,washing,waxing, and wax removal...

[sidaust]

I just received my first order of all towels, etc...from Poorboys...I am now going to place my order for waxes and polish etc...I have not seen this question asked or I can't find one that has been asked...In washing, polishing,waxing and wax removal...If doing it by hand.. do you do it in a circle motion or an up and down motion or left to right or vice versa...I read somewhere you should never remove or apply in a circuliar motion...What are your thoughts...may be be a dumb question...I am just trying to learn to keep my ride looking good,,
thanks
Sid

 

[BigLeegr]

Basically, the back and forth motion is to minimize the noticeability of scratches/marring instilled into the paint by rubbing. In my opinion, unless you are using poor supplies (polishes, towels, etc.) or waxing in a dust storm, you shouldn't be scratching your paint. Also, if one were to consider the motion of a PC DA polisher, it would be noticed that it does not move in a back and forth motion.
IMHO, circular allows a more even coverage and, with proper technique, supplies, etc. allows one to remove marring better than back and forth.

But, in the end, it depends on what gives you the best results. If you get better results from going back and forth, then that's what you should do.
(until you get better with the "proper" technique. )

 

[Scott P]

I remove excess polish or wax by buffing in straight lines.

 

[Poorboy]

When i polish by hand it's always back and forth as you might be picking up some fine pieces of dirt or contaminates from the surface ...when applying a wax or sealant, it doesn't really matter as the finish should be clean ...as for removal, I always go back and forth following the lines of the vehicle