Before applying a protective coating is it better to clay or clean with say a McGuier's #1 paint cleaner?

Thanks for the tips.

 

Both if you have time. Clay first, then paint cleaner. If you wanted to only do one, then I would opt for the clay. The clay picks up alot of surface contaminants etc, but the paint cleaner also removes light oxidation, makes the surface smoother since it has slight abrasives in it to smooth out the surface. Then apply your wax

 

^+1... do both

 

Either one is good, both is better. Clay first then cleanser.

 

I tried to use a cleaner wax with a machine polisher. Then I clayed the same area. the clay picked up crap that the machine polish did not. I highly recommend claying the car first. It will make the rest of the detailing steps alot easier.