Eliminating rail dust, which consists of tiny metallic particles that can adhere to your car’s paint during transportation on trains, involves a careful cleaning process.

Here’s how to effectively remove rail dust:

1. Gather Your Materials

• Car wash soap
• Bucket
• Hose or pressure washer
• Microfiber wash mitt or sponge
• Clay bar or clay pad
• Clay lubricant (or a mix of car wash soap and water)
• Microfiber towels for drying

2. Wash the Car

• Rinse: Start by rinsing the car with water to remove loose dirt and debris.
• Wash: Use a bucket of soapy water and a microfiber wash mitt to wash the entire vehicle. This helps remove any surface grime.

3. Inspect the Surface

• After washing, check for any roughness on the paint. If you feel small bumps or rough spots, that’s likely rail dust.

4. Use a Clay Bar or Clay Pad

• Preparation: If using a clay bar, knead it to form a flat disc. For a clay pad, attach it to a dual-action polisher.
• Lubrication: Spray a clay lubricant over a section of the paint to help the clay glide smoothly.
• Claying: Gently rub the clay over the lubricated area in back-and-forth motions. The clay will pick up rail dust and other contaminants. If it becomes dirty, fold it to expose a clean side, or discard it if too contaminated.

5. Check for Smoothness

• Wipe the area with a microfiber towel to check if it feels smooth. Repeat the claying process as necessary until the surface is clear of contaminants.

6. Final Rinse and Dry

• Rinse the car thoroughly to remove any clay residue or lubricant.
• Use microfiber towels to dry the car completely.

7. Apply Protection

• After removing rail dust, consider applying a wax, sealant, or ceramic coating to protect the paint and make future cleaning easier.

Tips:

• Frequency: Regular washing and claying (every 6 months or so) can help prevent rail dust from becoming embedded in the paint.
• Avoid Scratching: Always ensure the surface is lubricated when using a clay bar or pad to avoid scratching the paint.

By following these steps, you can effectively eliminate rail dust and maintain your car’s finish!