Chamois Techniques?
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 2,565
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From: Lexington KY
Cruise-In IV Veteran
St. Jude Contributor
Chamois Techniques?
I apologize if this has been asked before: what is the "correct" way to use a chamois? I know the directions say to use it slightly damp, but I've found it quite challenging to get the car dry with a wet chamois. Am I doing something wrong?
Thanks for the help!
Thanks for the help!
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,014
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From: Buford GA
Re: Chamois Techniques? (2000MagRed)
I just wring out my trusty leather chammy. I believe the instructions means do not use a dry chamois that has been air dried because it can be abrasive.
Therefore, I usually plop my air-dried chammy in the sink with cold water. By the time I am done bathing my baby and waterblading, I go inside and wring it out and dry off the water drips and it works great.
Therefore, I usually plop my air-dried chammy in the sink with cold water. By the time I am done bathing my baby and waterblading, I go inside and wring it out and dry off the water drips and it works great.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 8,205
Likes: 40
From: Tucson AZ
Re: Chamois Techniques? (2000MagRed)
Welcome to the Forum! A chamois may work well, but I have found that a California Water Blade and a soft towel is best. Quick, easy, and a lot less "rub" time on the paint. Try one and you will be hooked. :smash: :yesnod: :)
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2003
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From: Lexington KY
Cruise-In IV Veteran
St. Jude Contributor
Re: Chamois Techniques? (carpe dm)
Yes, actually I have a California Water Bar, and I love it! I've just been using the chamois to get those final areas. I've seen people mention "The Absorber". Any idea what that is?
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 125
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From: Gilbert Az
Re: Chamois Techniques? (2000MagRed)
I used to use chamois but I recently switched to the absorber as well. I like it much better.
:thumbs: http://www.madvet.com/shop?store=1&category=9&frame=500
:thumbs: http://www.madvet.com/shop?store=1&category=9&frame=500
Safety Car
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 4,174
Likes: 15
From: Florida
Re: Chamois Techniques? (lyerton)
If you like a chamois or Absorber, do yourself a favor and try P21S's Drying towel. Its slightly smaller, but holds much more without streaking. You can get it under 10.00 at http://www.autosupermart.com maybe even http://www.autogeek.net
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Race Director
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 19,304
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From: San Diego CA
Re: Chamois Techniques? (2000MagRed)
After 25 years of washing and drying cars, I recommend the following steps for drying a C5.
1) Wash with car wash soap, a soft cotton towel, and plenty of water (rinse first, of course)
2) Rinse and wipe most of water off with the California water blade.
3) Blow dry with a 200+ MPH electric leaf blower that has never been used as a leaf vac.
4) Wipe with a soft cotton towel.
If you really like getting plenty of forearm exercise, then skip steps 2 (except the rinse part) - 4 and use a chamois.
1) Wash with car wash soap, a soft cotton towel, and plenty of water (rinse first, of course)
2) Rinse and wipe most of water off with the California water blade.
3) Blow dry with a 200+ MPH electric leaf blower that has never been used as a leaf vac.
4) Wipe with a soft cotton towel.
If you really like getting plenty of forearm exercise, then skip steps 2 (except the rinse part) - 4 and use a chamois.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 2,049
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From: kansas city MO
Re: Chamois Techniques? (Dave68)
3) Blow dry with a 200+ MPH electric leaf blower that has never been used as a leaf vac.
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[Modified by boblackhardtop, 4:25 AM 5/9/2003]
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
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From: Ormond Beach FL
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Re: Chamois Techniques? (2000MagRed)
I use a Calif. Blade and Absorber.. then follow up with a microfiber towel...soemtimes leaf blower to get it out of the cracks if I have extra time.... the Absorber can be bought a Wal-Mart or Meijer.. it comes in a container to keep it in
[Modified by Traceys2vettes, 11:25 PM 5/8/2003]
[Modified by Traceys2vettes, 11:25 PM 5/8/2003]
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
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From: Ormond Beach FL
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Re: Chamois Techniques? (2000MagRed)
By the way... Im from Lexington... which area are you in... ?
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
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From: Ormond Beach FL
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Re: Chamois Techniques? (2000MagRed)
Never mind.. I know who you are... ;) :seeya :seeya
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 2,262
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From: Huntington Beach CA
Re: Chamois Techniques? (2000MagRed)
Wash, california blade, wet chamois, wring out so that it is moist, wipe in circles from top to bottom, Z-2 w/Zfx, Z-6...
The perfect car wash...
The perfect car wash...
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 6,017
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From: Plainfield IL
Re: Chamois Techniques? (BayouVette)
I use the Absorber too. It comes in a plastic tube that you can store it in. It costs $9.99 at Auto Zone. Don't use it dry--soak it overnight first. It can be machine washed. I just love it. :)
Advanced
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 68
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From: Scottsdale AZ
Re: Chamois Techniques? (2000MagRed)
Have always used a chamois. Was taught that with a properly waxed car all you needed to do was lightly drag the damp chamois across the car, wring well repeat as necessary. Should not involve any rigorous arm motions. :flag :seeya
Advanced
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 88
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Re: Chamois Techniques? (tproth)
Quick question, how does the Cali blade work for you guys.... No problems with the scratches? I use the absorber, leaf blower and 100% cotton towels. Works great :thumbs: but if the blade cuts down on drying time.. I'm ready to change my ways.