Sun vs Shade

[ToyTruk]

Most polishes and waxes recommend that they be applied in the shade. Is this because the sun will dry them too quickly or is there some sort of reaction with the sunlight that causes problems?

[MrSo0h0o]

The reason you dont want to apply in the sun is because the body panels will become warm/hot and the wax/polish will bake onto your paint, which will make it very hard to take off. When you have a cool surface, aka in the shade, it is much easier to wipe off the residue.

[TrailDust]

Ambient air temperature is important too. Too cold or too hot is not good. Try to wax with the temperature in the 70s.

TrailDust

[ToyTruk]

Thanks, I wasn't sure if there was some sort of photo chemical reaction or it was just a function of heat. There are times here when the sun is out but the body remains cool to the touch. Since shade is not readily available I think I'll try it in a small area and see what happens.

[TrailDust]

Is there a multi-story parking garage near where you live? You could take the car there to get it out of the sun and do your detailing. Then again, if you live out in B.F. Egypt you're in a tough situation.

[ToyTruk]

Originally Posted by TrailDust

Is there a multi-story parking garage near where you live? You could take the car there to get it out of the sun and do your detailing. Then again, if you live out in B.F. Egypt you're in a tough situation.

Only the ones are attached to the casinos where there are multiple Neanderthal security guards that do not take kindly to those who use their facilities for purposes other than gambling.

The temperature today was in the high 40's with a hazy sun so I thought I would give it a try. The body of the Tacoma was cool to slightly warm in places. Using Klasse All-in-One turned out to be a pleasure as opposed to when I did it during the summer in the early evening shade (I do get some shade for about an hour before sundown) with the temperature in the high 90's.

[ToyotaJimD.]

Synthetic waxes are a little more forgiving and can often be applied in the sun. Carnauba waxes will dry very hard quite quickly, and will be difficult to use in the sun.

[desentrix]

Waxing in humid temps is a pain in the ass as well.
I would recommend Meguiars NXT Tech Wax. It removes pretty easily.
They have liquid/paste.

Note: This is great touch-up wax, much like a polish. If you car is starving for wax, get a good carnuba paste.

[PhatRoyale]

Definitely wax in the shade... a covered garage should be best.

[mongoose_71]

In the shade on days that arn't humid. Another thumbs up to the NXT wax. Best I've used since Griots Garage wax.