Chemical Guys, Adam's, or Griots?

[SeattleiteA6]

Hey guys - I'm getting a '13 RS5 shipped up to me next week (longest 4-5 days ahead EVER) and badly need to upgrade and expand my wash/detail supplies and products. From my research, I think I've narrowed it down to Chemical Guys, Adam's, or Griots.

Ideally I'm looking for a medium-sized kit, and would like to spend $200-300 to get me started.

What would you guys recommend?

Thanks for any/all input!


By the way - any way to change your user name? Or do you need to create a whole new acct? Haha just realized I maybe shouldn't have put a model in my name...ugh


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[HazeMyth]

I know a lot of people here use Adam's and Griots, but I've been very happy with Chemical Guys. So far I've used it to do a full paint correction on my Evo and wax the S5. The S5 will likely need a paint correction after the winter. I'm planning on using it to do a full correction on the Tacoma next year, too. The wax + xseal really brings the depth to colors, and I think the Tiimberland Mica color on my truck is going to look stunning after I'm done.

The wax is incredibly easy to use, and it doesn't leave any powdery residue behind like some waxes do. I haven't used Adam's or Griots, so I can't speak to those products on anything other than pictures I've seen. I don't think you can go wrong with any of those brands, really.

[Chanman94]

Many here use Adam's, including myself. I must say it's a great product, and priced very well. $200-$300 can you get a lot from Adam's, assuming you already have a polisher. Hit up Mops, he's great help and can answer whatever questions you have.

[Mops@Nemesis]

Certainly happy to assist. I've used Adams products for 7+ years, and could not be happier. Shoot me an email if you would like specific recommendations, and I have a 13% off discount code I can share as well

[szaer]

I'm sure you would happy to use any 3 of the products you listed. But to be honest, Adams customer service and price points are top notch. I remember I ordered a small washing pad and they had them on back order, so they sent me a Large one instead free of charge, and it was delivered quickly too. Their detail spray and machine sealant are highly recommended! easiest products I have ever used.

[LimaSierra]

I have used all three products (been awhile since Griots) and currently using both CG and Adam's on my vehicles.

Both work great. Adam's do not have any matte related products, so I am now using Dr. Beasley's and CG on the RS.

IMHO CG is more bang for your $$. Been very happy with most their products! And I keep my RS in mint!





--Nate

[ians]

I have been using zaino for the past 15 years since I first start realize need to take good care of my cars other than machine car cash! But seems like no one using zaino over here. So anyone over here was switching from zaino and able to give me some insight that what the difference? Since my zaino inventory is going to run out soon, so may as well switch to something else and is getting old, so spend 8hr to detail 1 car every 6mth is too much for me now!

[PeregrineNYC]

I've had very good results with Chemical Guys.

[ColtS5]

Many here use Adam's, including myself. I must say it's a great product, and priced very well. $200-$300 can you get a lot from Adam's, assuming you already have a polisher. Hit up Mops, he's great help and can answer whatever questions you have.

Huge second. I have been moving over to Adam's for some time. Great stuff. Their detailer spray, and window cleaner are hands down the best I ever used.

I used to use a mix of 1grand products, all good, but Adam's stuff is the best I have used. I have not used Chem guys, but have heard good things about them, so you may want to try a bit from each, and see which way to go. For the cockpit, I still use the Wurth interior dressing (more for the smell) and Porsche cockpit cleaner.

Here is my list and rating:

Adam's detailer - Great product, gets refined from time to time, but easy on and easy off. Great for detailing, clay baring, or quick spot jobs.

http://adamspolishes.com/shop/exteri...pray-16oz.html

Adam's window Cleaner - The best! The Best! The Best! Get it? It not only does a the best job on car windows, but we use it at home for glass and mirrors. It is also is great for computer screens and flat screen TV's. Amazing stuff really!

http://adamspolishes.com/adam-s-new-...-1-gallon.html

Adams Car Shampoo - Great suds, good cleaning without stripping the wax. Note, I have not used the new formula, still using the five gallon "pink" formula.

http://adamspolishes.com/shop/exteri...mpoo-16oz.html

Adams Tire Shine/VRT - Two choices here. The VRT has a better finish (to me) but the Tire Shine last longer, especially when it rains.

http://adamspolishes.com/shop/exteri...ire-shine.html
http://adamspolishes.com/shop/exteri...-dressing.html

Adams Americana Wax - Great long lasting wax. Great for everyday drivers, and especially good if layered after using the Adams glaze. Goes on easy, and like most paste waxes, if not too humid, or cold, goes on and off easy.

http://adamspolishes.com/shop/exteri...aste-wax4.html

Adams Leather Conditioner - I never thought I'd use anything but Lexol. Then I tried Adams. Wow, what a great product. Has a hint of new car smell, but not overbearing. Nice matt finish to leather, w/o being greasy.

http://adamspolishes.com/shop/interi...nditioner.html

[Hatchman]

I use a little bit of everything.

I will say that Chemical Guys Diablo Gel wheel cleaner didn't work all that great for me. And Adam's Detail Spray seems a little watered down and doesn't shine as good or last as long as other quick detail sprays or spray waxes. I usually don't touch my paint between washes and need more of a last step product that has more gloss and durability.

Both CG and Adam's have lots of great products, and not enough time to talk about how great most of them are, but those two products didn't quite "do it" for me. YMMV.

[SeattleiteA6]

Tons of good info here guys, thanks. I had been leaning towards Griots since they're a local favorite (founded in Tacoma, about an hour from me) and I am friends with their CFO, as I used to work for him several years back at another company.

I think I'll take many of your guys' advice and go with Adam's - I saw a few nice kits on their site and I'll definitely take Mops up on his offer to help me out!! @Mops I'll be PM'ing you shortly to get some input on what my first kit should contain - and I'll gladly take you up on your 13% discount!

huge thanks gents

Anyone have any input on the username thing? Would love to change it and not have to create a whole new acct, but don't think that's do-able...

[Chanman94]

Tons of good info here guys, thanks. I had been leaning towards Griots since they're a local favorite (founded in Tacoma, about an hour from me) and I am friends with their CFO, as I used to work for him several years back at another company.

I think I'll take many of your guys' advice and go with Adam's - I saw a few nice kits on their site and I'll definitely take Mops up on his offer to help me out!! @Mops I'll be PM'ing you shortly to get some input on what my first kit should contain - and I'll gladly take you up on your 13% discount!

huge thanks gents

Anyone have any input on the username thing? Would love to change it and not have to create a whole new acct, but don't think that's do-able...

If you PM Anthony I believe you're allowed to change it once.

[LINDW4LL]

I've purchased both. Adam's makes great products and makes all of their stuff here in the US which is cool. Chemical Guys is often times a better bang for your buck, but I am happier overall with my Adam's stuff.

Both have solid offerings overall. I also use a few Sonax and Einszett products as well.

[RVJ]

I used to be a high end Zymol (wax was over $1k) until Mops got me to try the Adam's stuff. Great stuff and a very good price. Two months ago I had a few products but I'm now up to 8. Can't go wrong with it IMHO.


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[Mops@Nemesis]

Tons of good info here guys, thanks. I had been leaning towards Griots since they're a local favorite (founded in Tacoma, about an hour from me) and I am friends with their CFO, as I used to work for him several years back at another company.

I think I'll take many of your guys' advice and go with Adam's - I saw a few nice kits on their site and I'll definitely take Mops up on his offer to help me out!! @Mops I'll be PM'ing you shortly to get some input on what my first kit should contain - and I'll gladly take you up on your 13% discount!

huge thanks gents

Anyone have any input on the username thing? Would love to change it and not have to create a whole new acct, but don't think that's do-able...

Sounds good, and I'll take you through the must-haves. I quit Griots many years ago. I was never crazy about their products, but they always sent those badass catalogs that were so exciting, so they were the first I leaned on post off-the-shelf. They may have a few great products today, but I prefer to get everything from Adams. The customer service is awesome. I have been "pushing" them for a couple of years, but used them for 5 or so years before I ever benefited from it. And I've been detailing for a good 15 or so years now, and have thrown away more product than I've approved. That being said, there are certainly better more expensive products out there. Even better comparably priced ones like CG. I started with Adams a while ago, there is not one product that does not perform very well, they are constantly challenging their current products, and they've been super good to me over the years. It's also so much easier for me to source 95% from one source. And this makes my OCD very happy....

IMG_3654 by Audiyos, on Flickr

[d1amund]

Huge second. I have been moving over to Adam's for some time. Great stuff. Their detailer spray, and window cleaner are hands down the best I ever used.

I used to use a mix of 1grand products, all good, but Adam's stuff is the best I have used. I have not used Chem guys, but have heard good things about them, so you may want to try a bit from each, and see which way to go. For the cockpit, I still use the Wurth interior dressing (more for the smell) and Porsche cockpit cleaner.

Here is my list and rating:

Adam's detailer - Great product, gets refined from time to time, but easy on and easy off. Great for detailing, clay baring, or quick spot jobs.

http://adamspolishes.com/shop/exteri...pray-16oz.html

Adam's window Cleaner - The best! The Best! The Best! Get it? It not only does a the best job on car windows, but we use it at home for glass and mirrors. It is also is great for computer screens and flat screen TV's. Amazing stuff really!

http://adamspolishes.com/adam-s-new-...-1-gallon.html

Adams Car Shampoo - Great suds, good cleaning without stripping the wax. Note, I have not used the new formula, still using the five gallon "pink" formula.

http://adamspolishes.com/shop/exteri...mpoo-16oz.html

Adams Tire Shine/VRT - Two choices here. The VRT has a better finish (to me) but the Tire Shine last longer, especially when it rains.

http://adamspolishes.com/shop/exteri...ire-shine.html
http://adamspolishes.com/shop/exteri...-dressing.html

Adams Americana Wax - Great long lasting wax. Great for everyday drivers, and especially good if layered after using the Adams glaze. Goes on easy, and like most paste waxes, if not too humid, or cold, goes on and off easy.

http://adamspolishes.com/shop/exteri...aste-wax4.html

Adams Leather Conditioner - I never thought I'd use anything but Lexol. Then I tried Adams. Wow, what a great product. Has a hint of new car smell, but not overbearing. Nice matt finish to leather, w/o being greasy.

http://adamspolishes.com/shop/interi...nditioner.html

Appreciate the good write-up with links provided. Thanks!

[namvar]

I use Adam's and have been extremely happy with the products. They also make every effort to help you address your needs. Unfortunately I have not had any experience with the other products.

[SeattleiteA6]

Sounds good, and I'll take you through the must-haves. I quit Griots many years ago. I was never crazy about their products, but they always sent those badass catalogs that were so exciting, so they were the first I leaned on post off-the-shelf. They may have a few great products today, but I prefer to get everything from Adams. The customer service is awesome. I have been "pushing" them for a couple of years, but used them for 5 or so years before I ever benefited from it. And I've been detailing for a good 15 or so years now, and have thrown away more product than I've approved. That being said, there are certainly better more expensive products out there. Even better comparably priced ones like CG. I started with Adams a while ago, there is not one product that does not perform very well, they are constantly challenging their current products, and they've been super good to me over the years. It's also so much easier for me to source 95% from one source. And this makes my OCD very happy....

IMG_3654 by Audiyos, on Flickr

I...I must have that.




P.S. you're on my wife's sh!tlist now after I showed her that pic.

[HazeMyth]

P.S. you're on my wife's sh!tlist now after I showed her that pic.

I guess I'm one of the lucky ones. My wife loves ordering car parts and car care products. She ordered the Stripper Scent spray from Chemical Guys in hopes that it smells like cotton candy and broken dreams.

[Mops@Nemesis]

I...I must have that.

P.S. you're on my wife's sh!tlist now after I showed her that pic.

Ha!! 13% off doe

I guess I'm one of the lucky ones. My wife loves ordering car parts and car care products. She ordered the Stripper Scent spray from Chemical Guys in hopes that it smells like cotton candy and broken dreams.

Yea same, Mopette and I both really enjoy it. She not so much super pumped about ordering/modding, but she does enjoy it a lot, and lets me do as I please with the vehicles.

[ColtS5]

Sounds good, and I'll take you through the must-haves. I quit Griots many years ago. I was never crazy about their products, but they always sent those badass catalogs that were so exciting, so they were the first I leaned on post off-the-shelf. They may have a few great products today, but I prefer to get everything from Adams. The customer service is awesome. I have been "pushing" them for a couple of years, but used them for 5 or so years before I ever benefited from it. And I've been detailing for a good 15 or so years now, and have thrown away more product than I've approved. That being said, there are certainly better more expensive products out there. Even better comparably priced ones like CG. I started with Adams a while ago, there is not one product that does not perform very well, they are constantly challenging their current products, and they've been super good to me over the years. It's also so much easier for me to source 95% from one source. And this makes my OCD very happy....

IMG_3654 by Audiyos, on Flickr

Oh My!

[d1amund]

Yea same, Mopette and I both really enjoy it. She not so much super pumped about ordering/modding, but she does enjoy it a lot, and lets me do as I please with the vehicles.

Funny how the wives either love or hate these hobbies. My ex wife used to help out detailing our cars...in a miniskirt, bikini top and heels. Haven't found another since her lol No, I'm not providing pics.

[Mops@Nemesis]

Funny how the wives either love or hate these hobbies. My ex wife used to help out detailing our cars...in a miniskirt, bikini top and heels. Haven't found another since her lol No, I'm not providing pics.

Pics??

Yea sounds shallow I guess, but automotive is a big part of me. I'm not really interested in being with someone who cannot at least appreciate it, and would not be cool with me modding, spending time detailing, selling etc. Mine has never once said anything. A laugh here and there, but nothing negative. She tells people if the worst I do is obsess over clean fly whips, she's doing great. There are much worse hobbies and ways to spend free time.

[i1overice]

Funny how the wives either love or hate these hobbies. My ex wife used to help out detailing our cars...in a miniskirt, bikini top and heels. Haven't found another since her lol No, I'm not providing pics.

Going to need photo evidence. Can't brag about it and not have proof to back your story up.

[bknewtype]

adams. that's all u need.

http://www.audizine.com/forum/showth...ams-experience

hehe my woman helps me wash, mod, and tape up :] she always says "get whatever makes u happy, and not cry about not having money after" lol

[HazeMyth]

Hard to tell from the pictures, but she looks part Asian. It might be an Asian wife thing, because my wife gets down and dirty with the cars. She did her HKS 280 cam install on her Evo, her own tune, upgraded the radiator, refinished the calipers and replaced the rotors+pads, etc. She always asks for car parts or gun parts for her birthday, anniversaries and Christmas.

I will say, no matter what products we're using she absolutely hates detailing cars. She likes how they look when the hard work is done, but she likes to try to quit halfway through. At least with how easy the CG wax was to use, I didn't have a hard time convincing her to finish the job this time around.

[bknewtype]

Hard to tell from the pictures, but she looks part Asian. It might be an Asian wife thing, because my wife gets down and dirty with the cars. She did her HKS 280 cam install on her Evo, her own tune, upgraded the radiator, refinished the calipers and replaced the rotors+pads, etc. She always asks for car parts or gun parts for her birthday, anniversaries and Christmas.

I will say, no matter what products we're using she absolutely hates detailing cars. She likes how they look when the hard work is done, but she likes to try to quit halfway through. At least with how easy the CG wax was to use, I didn't have a hard time convincing her to finish the job this time around.

yup shes Asian, Burmese to be exact

shes not into cars like them car chicks, but she likes pretty cars. she can tell cars that are rice/not well down, and loves to say " that car needs more low". I taught her well

she doesn't drive or have a car, that's my job to bring her wherever she wants to go. she doesn't detail, but she gets bored enough to say " let me take over that hose". ;)

[HazeMyth]

Sometimes I wish my wife wasn't as into cars, to be honest. It would be a lot cheaper! She knows Evos well enough to know the general range of power they're making just based on how they sound, so that's always a cool party trick. I tell you what though, it's funny as hell to watch her blows the doors off of young 20's dudes that talk shit to her at a light, all while wearing high heals.

My wife isn't allowed to handle the hose when we wash cars, because she has a tendency to drop it. I have her do the rice paddy squat (what she calls it) and wash the lower parts of the car.

[Mops@Nemesis]

Not relevant but the convo reminded me of this pic lol




Mops on the move

[HazeMyth]

LOL

[LimaSierra]

Most of my arsenal.....












--Nate

[HazeMyth]

I really need to get a new cabinet to put all of my cleaning supplies in. I've got the cleaning goods, but the way some of you guys store your stuff is honestly making me a little jealous.

I guess I'll be off to the store this weekend to look at my options!

[Octothorpe]

but she gets bored enough to say " let me take over that hose"

aaaw yeah

[GotRS?]

I'm very pleased with the Adam's products. I started with them maybe 10yrs ago or so from Adam's O.C. market booth. Got hooked on the local guy and his story, nothing scientific about my choice, but the enlightening demos at the booth got me hooked on doing it properly.

My lesson would be that it's not so much what you use, but the way you use it.

[SeattleiteA6]

OP here, great feedback here and also some awesome posts about the wives haha! I feel I should note that my wife is as cool as hell, didn't want to sell her out as being a PITA. She never gets pissed when I buy cars and stuff for said cars, she just likes to give me a hard time because I always bug her about all the $$ she spends on Etsy and whatever other sites she buys sh!t from and the seemingly endless amount of clothes she buys for our 13 month-old daughter. I don't think I've ever seen the kid in the same outfit twice, hand to god.

Back to the matter at hand, I just got a call from the truck driver and the RS is getting delivered to my office TOMORROW!!! A day ahead of their original estimate (which is like 3 days early in my book). Time to get my suds & sprays ordered ASAP.... And my ross-tech, and spacers, and ecodes, and euro tails, and so on!

Finally, any of you guys use foam guns when you bathe her? Is it a preferred method like the CG videos insist, or is it more just a bit of a gimmick? Was wondering if I should add an Adam's or CG foamer to the arsenal...

Thanks gents, can't wait to officially be a part of the gang
(is it really true there are only ~1500 of us in the US?)

[Mops@Nemesis]

I'm very pleased with the Adam's products. I started with them maybe 10yrs ago or so from Adam's O.C. market booth. Got hooked on the local guy and his story, nothing scientific about my choice, but the enlightening demos at the booth got me hooked on doing it properly.

My lesson would be that it's not so much what you use, but the way you use it.

I like that. Never really thought about it, but quite true.

OP here, great feedback here and also some awesome posts about the wives haha! I feel I should note that my wife is as cool as hell, didn't want to sell her out as being a PITA. She never gets pissed when I buy cars and stuff for said cars, she just likes to give me a hard time because I always bug her about all the $$ she spends on Etsy and whatever other sites she buys sh!t from and the seemingly endless amount of clothes she buys for our 13 month-old daughter. I don't think I've ever seen the kid in the same outfit twice, hand to god.

Back to the matter at hand, I just got a call from the truck driver and the RS is getting delivered to my office TOMORROW!!! A day ahead of their original estimate (which is like 3 days early in my book). Time to get my suds & sprays ordered ASAP.... And my ross-tech, and spacers, and ecodes, and euro tails, and so on!

Finally, any of you guys use foam guns when you bathe her? Is it a preferred method like the CG videos insist, or is it more just a bit of a gimmick? Was wondering if I should add an Adam's or CG foamer to the arsenal...

Thanks gents, can't wait to officially be a part of the gang
(is it really true there are only ~1500 of us in the US?)

Very exciting, in regards to delivery!

As for the foam, I stayed away from them up until I got my Adams one a few months ago. I felt they were gimmicky, and not needed. And they are somewhat, but I am really enjoying mine. I mostly use mine in between washes. Rinse/foam/rinse and you'll be surprised how much dirt is removed from a 10 minute spray. I also use mine pre-wash if the vehicle is really dirty. The foam does a great job loosening/dissolving dirt and debris before you put your hands on the paint, and its fun too. I use mine with the water hose, not a power washer. Some like to paint their vehicle in a super thick foam. I think there should be a good balance of foam and water.

[Sgibb16]

In for foam pics

[bknewtype]

I should really get on the foam gun band wagon, but it eats up shampoo mucho quickly, no? =s

[Mops@Nemesis]

Mops on the move

[Sgibb16]

I should really get on the foam gun band wagon, but it eats up shampoo mucho quickly, no? =s

Not really i put some water and shampoo in the holder. I think its much better used in the gun than in a bucket.