THE CAN-DO™ PROJECT
How an elusive goal produced a superior product.
Cause and Effect
Why we needed a unique formula
The can-do project started in late 1989, a few years after I began to manufacture my first product, the Pilot fairing. The Pilot fairing was deep-formed akin to aircraft canopies, and because of this forming technique, the product lacked scratch resistance. To maintain a scratch-free shield, I sought a non-abrasive aerosol polish. It should combine ease of application with a blend of distillates and synthetic lubricants to remove bugs and road film without water or soap. Ultimately, it must clean without scratching and provide a durable protective finish. Despite the availability of detailing aerosols, they failed to provide the desired level of protection and a long-lasting shine. In essence, my goal was to create the ultimate aerosol polish.
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Step by StepFinally, I found a company willing to collaborate with me on developing this hybrid polish. We first blended synthetic polish with distillates and water, and the first test sample was produced on 03-15-1990. These first formulas were superb at cleaning and surface protection but attracted dust. After testing over 16 variations, we finally found a synthetic polish that safeguarded against scratches without leaving a dust-attracting film. The downside was that this blend fell short on leaving a tough, durable finish—the synthetics literally burn off in days. What we needed was an ingredient that would leave a tough, durable, premium wax shine without all the work. |
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The Final ChallengesCarnauba wax is a notable ingredient. By blending it with antioxidants, we knew that the carnauba would leave a tough past wax finish without going through the hazing phase. In our quest for the best aerosol polish formula, we pushed the limits of how much carnauba could be added, resulting in Formula Test #26, created on 07-01-1991. Enriched with maximum carnauba wax content, this formula offers versatility as a detailer and cleaner. Plus, it offers a tough, durable, and exceptional finish. |