First-you can use the best stuff out there and still not get the best results if not done right. You can also use stuff bought from the store "consumer" lines and get great results when done right. I don't sell or work for anyone remotely related to any car care company, is this is just what I found to work best on my vehicles. I also buy only things I can go to the store and get. Basicaly, you get out of it what you put into it. You have to prepare the paint properly (wash/clay/clean/polish) for the best results from the wax.
Washing-use the two bucket method (info here:
http://www.showcargarage.com/) Use a quality wash-and enough of it (read the directions, lol). I currently use Meg's Gold Class shampoo
*note-I wash the rims & tires first, then the top (vert), then the body
Rims-Use a rim cleaner that is safe for your rims (chrome, aluminum, etc) and a soft brush if needed to remove brake dust. I use Hot Rims by Meg's-and a child's toothbrush for those harder to reach spots.
Tires-use a tire cleaner and a tire brush. I use a now discontinued product that I stocked up on-Westley's bleache white in the can with a built in brush.
Dry-use quality microfibers!
Paint care:
I use the Meg's claybar form the kit but have used hte mild detailers clay before too. Claybar first.
I use the Meg's step one paint cleaner. There are plenty of options to choose from in this catagory-pick a good name brand (meg's, mothers). This is not like wax and should not be allowed to "haze"-it does not need to dry to work.
I use meg's step two polish. Again, A LOT of choices here. Also does not need to dry.
Wax-I use meg's Gold Class. since they reformulated it about a year ago, it is even better. I also use two coats-basically, this makes sure it gets full coverage (no spots missed), not really to add more "protection".
Tire shine-I use Meg's GC Endurance. I just can't get into the spray kind-a little wind, and it's on your paint. Just make sure you wipe off excess if you use jel, or it will "fling" off the tires onto the paint.
Chrome rims-I se Mother's chrome polish.
I do have a PC (not a buffer, a polisher. Buffers used improperly can easily damage paint), and use some items from the professional line on the DD, which sees much harsher conditions than the stang. I don't think they are specifically needed to get good results, but its quicker, easier, and the other half likes to use the pc (power tool!), so he helps keep that up. It's a lot of work keeping a stable full of rides in optimum shape!
My Stang:
