Steel Wool For Window Detailing

[clcsocal]

I remember seeing some show some time ago that showed detailer using 0000 steel wool and window cleaner to detail exterior car window glass. Is that something that works without damaging windows? My back window has some buildup that looks like fine overspray. Is this a safe way to get it crystal clear?

[got boost.]

you can use a clay bar to remove overspray. it safe and won't scratch the surface.

[A4_Mike]

I would try the clay bar. Steel wool on glass is bound to leave scratch marks everywhere.

[Twista616]

steel wool is the last resort...not to beat it in you, but clay it first, try mild, then if that doesnt work, step up to medium...if that doesn't work, try a razor blade...after that...i guess steel wool...even thought i dont recommend it!

[clcsocal]

Thanks guys. I have a clay bar, don't know why I didn't think to try it. I'll give it a shot.

[swrt83]

let me know how it comes out socal - i'm in the same position as you are.. such a bitch, ain't it?

[tamadrumr88]

I use steel wool alot, not sure what grit I have here but I've never had a problem with scratching. Definitely works faster than clay or a razor for some cruddy substances on window glass

[snowbird]

I think I saw the same show. It was the detailing segment on Dream Car Garage, and they were detailing a Viper.

#0000 (or finer) is too fine to scratch glass. I'd use clay first as well, but I'd use extra fine steel wool before a razor blade.

I used #0000 and glass cleaner to clean up my glass after removing tint, and it did a great job with no damage - not even to the defroster strips in the rear.

[biketsai]

razor blade FTW

[A4Ferrari]

steel wool .. works for me!!!

[clcsocal]

I think I saw the same show. It was the detailing segment on Dream Car Garage, and they were detailing a Viper.

#0000 (or finer) is too fine to scratch glass. I'd use clay first as well, but I'd use extra fine steel wool before a razor blade.

I used #0000 and glass cleaner to clean up my glass after removing tint, and it did a great job with no damage - not even to the defroster strips in the rear.

Good memory, that was exactly it. I saw it over a year ago, and as soon as I read your post it jogged my memory. Thanks.

[swrt83]

Hey where would one get these 0000 grade steel wools? Pep Boys? Walmart? lol

[snowbird]

Hey where would one get these 0000 grade steel wools? Pep Boys? Walmart? lol

Don't you have a local steel-wool store?

I know Home Depot has several grades. Paint and hardware stores are probably a good bet as well.

[swrt83]

Now that I think about it, I drive by a steel wool joint on my way to work everyday.. its right off the highway, huge sign, can't miss it! haha

[swrt83]

I think I saw the same show. It was the detailing segment on Dream Car Garage, and they were detailing a Viper.

#0000 (or finer) is too fine to scratch glass. I'd use clay first as well, but I'd use extra fine steel wool before a razor blade.

I used #0000 and glass cleaner to clean up my glass after removing tint, and it did a great job with no damage - not even to the defroster strips in the rear.

Confirmed this yesterday. I used a 50/50 base solution of water/vinegar as lubrication with the steel woo. While it helped get the crud off the windows, it won't help with deep etchings from UV damage. I still would recommend it, though.. as it helped smooth out the surface junk. Makes your windows stink like a mofo though. After I was done, I went over the windows again with some stoner window cleaner, and that def helped.

[tquattro2004]

Hi Guys,
I was in the same situation, had waterspots on back rear window and couldn't get them off for anything. I stumbled across this. GLASS SCRUB by Glass Science. It was a t walmart for like $4. I tried it. It is like a gritty polish. Worked great!!! Just make sure you don't use it on anything else but glass. Glass looks BRAND NEW. Hope this helps.

[EuroA4]

Rain-X also has a cleaner that has a mild abrasive in it that may help to remove those water spots. It is the consistancy of tooth paste.

[tquattro2004]

Tried the rainX cleaner, didn't work at all. Just FYI

[SlappyB6]

Steel wool has always worked for me, and I'l recommend it to anyone. Just make sure you get 0000, or it can and will leave scratches. I've used it on my cars, my family's cars and my friends' car since I found out about it 5 or so years ago. Just use either good glass cleaner, soapy water, or as stated above vinegar and water. And I recommed going up and down the window in small strokes, don't do a swirling motion.

[swrt83]

And I recommed going up and down the window in small strokes, don't do a swirling motion.

This is the same procedure I did. While it takes a while, it's worth it b/c you may get those tiny swirl marks if you press too hard with the steel wool. It's the same stroke you use just like you would clay your paint..