Using a claybar

[DCR62]

Guys, I am going to detail the car for the first time using a clay bar. Having not used one before, can someone tell me the exact process of using it. Any tips to look out for etc. Can I do any damage to the car. What is it made from (please don't say clay)
cheers from downunder

[G. P. Burdell]

Actually, it really is clay. Follow the directions on the package and you should do fine. Some tips:

1. Inspect the clay after finishing each section. If you see a piece of grit stuck in the clay, pick it out before moving on to the next section.

2. Knead and fold the clay after finishing each section (I usually do one 2'x2' section at a time) to expose a fresh surface. Otherwise, you will grind the contaminants that are embedded in the clay into subsequent sections of your paint.

3. Don't push the clay into the paint - just let it glide across the surface. At first you'll feel and hear the friction of the clay moving over the contaminants, but as those contaminants get picked up by the clay, the noise and "friction" sensation will go away.

4. Work in the shade, not in the sun. The clay lubricant will last longer. You'll also be more comfortable.

Good luck!

[Estoril ART]

Whatever you do, don't drop the claybar. If you do, just throw it away.

[David]

Here is the process I use for claying as originally posted in this thread:

http://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=73837
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First and foremost, claying CAN cause scratching if you use the same piece too often. The crap that's imbedded in the clay will cause scratches when you rub it over your paint.

Using the mothers bar as an example:

Cut the clay into 14 equal pieces. 1 for each area.

4 pieces for the hood

2 - 1 piece for each front fender

4 - 1 for each door if you have a sedan

2 for the roof

1 for the trunk lid

1 for the rear of the trunk + lower bumper and front lights + lower bumper

Take a piece, roll it up, then flatten it out so that it's as wide as your first three fingers put together.

Focus on one area at a time. Spray it with enough lube so that the clay will not stick or smear on the paint. Rub the clay against the paint in front to back motiions using medium pressure. If you feel that your fingers are starting to go through the piece, then you are pressing too hard. As you start claying you will feel resistance, and, if you listen closely enough, you'll hear the clay grabbing the contaminition. Once the clay glides with no resistance, and no noise, move on.

After you have done half of the section, then flip the peice over to the other side. Once the section is done, THROW the piece AWAY! Buff the quick detailer lube off the section before going to the next section. If you don't, you'll have to rewash your car as the lube will dry on your paint and make a mess.

Continue doing this for each section until you are finished the vehicle.

As a side note: If you find that a piece of clay gets too disfigured, then go ahead and roll it up and re-flatten it. Just be sure that there is no contamination exposed.
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[DCR62]

Thakns to all. I let you know how I go.