[ferrisbueller]

Thinking of buying a silicone water blade for drying. Does anyone use this? Good idea? Bad idea?

[Rayvan]

I've been using one for years. I love it for the windows. I wouldn't use it on my paint, though.

[Abubaca]

Definitely wouldn't use it on paint. I use an electric leaf blower to get "most" of the water off, then a dedicated high pile microfiber and your choice of drying aid. I'm currently using P&S Beadmaker, but any spray/quick wax makes short work of leftover water. I'm not one of these guys who's overly anal about all the latest and greatest trends, but the blower/towel/drying aid combo is just a no-brainer for time, ease and piece of mind.


Edit, - when I say dedicated drying towel, I simply mean that some people have a specific size and GSM towel they use for each and every part of their wash/detail, and in general, I haven't found that to be necessary, HOWEVER....with drying....it does make a difference. I think a good quality, heavy, higher pile mifcrofiber DOES make a difference for drying.

[KirkH]

Jelly blades have their place. Obviously, they are great for glass. They are great for convertible tops. They are great for cars and trucks that already have a bunch of swirls and you're not worried about adding more. They can be used on paint in good condition if you are very careful and you have cleaned the surface perfectly. However, you could miss a grain of grit and drag a big swirl scratch down the surface. That's the risk you take to be able to dry the vehicle with one towel.


Of course, you can do the same with a towel that has a piece of grit or twig stuck in the fibers. Always inspect your towels before using, each time.

[laynlo15]

Have used them on paint with no issues. Just keep the edges of the blade clean and you need to use very little pressure and keep your micro towel close and wipe with it right behind the water blade as you can't get it all off with the blade. Little common since goes a long way.

[396ssrat]

Been using mine for about 15 years. Awesome tool to own. Doesn't hurt a thing. Makes short work of water when drying off your car.

[Soleil]

No silicone blade. Only towels.



https://youtu.be/zMvMmpySDj4

[beworthy3]

Ive recently started using one, was skeptical at first. But while being very careful it seems to do a really good job. Have not scratched anything yet

[Jeb114]

Used them for years never hurt the paint. Great for quick drying at shows.

[BWHunter]

I have used one for years on glass...and on the paint on my suburban. On my wife's 'vette and my SS I use this: https://www.mckees37.com/car-dryer.h...hoCgv0QAvD_BwE

It doesn't come from California, though...

[Magnum922]

I have use a master blaster dryer since new. It's a 2017 and have not gotten any swirl Mark's in the clear coat yet.

[craigss50]

I've used it on my paint for 3 years now and no issue after washing with car wash first. No swirls or scratches in my Dark Gray paint (Nightfall Gray).

[L8Apex]

Used the California water blade for 15+ years on black cars, of course you need to make sure it's clean, but it will not hurt the paint

[freddyD]

I have one,stopped using it,air blower is better follow up with groits waffle drying towel-great!These new paints will scrach very easy,towels,shammys etc.