To wax or not to wax?

[Anatol]

When my car was restored the workshop recommended to have the underbody painted but not waxed because this allows the detection of any damages to the paint easily.

All the cavities where filled with Mike Sanders, though.

Now, my car is usually only driven in the dry, never in winter. However, during oldtimer rallyes the car may well have three days of rain to go through.

After this year's wet Ennstal Classic I had my current workshop make up the underbody as there were some stone chips showing surface rust. The workshop manager recommended a light cover of wax for the underbody because it would prevent stone chips and rusting.

So, gentlemen, what is your advice: to wax or not to wax?

[mobius911]

I think it's a good idea. I don't see any harm to it. I'm not sure how wax would disguise anything; it's not opaque.

Someone in another thread many moons ago mentioned they used a spray-on furniture wax in their wheel wells. Supposedly it does a better job of protecting the surface and shedding water and dirt. That might be another option.

[boxster03]

If you are not trapping any moisture under the wax no issues - just make sure you have a good clean moisture free surface prior to applying

[Anatol]

Thank you for your feedback! I will look into it!

[ESully]

I think it's a good idea. I don't see any harm to it. I'm not sure how wax would disguise anything; it's not opaque.

Someone in another thread many moons ago mentioned they used a spray-on furniture wax in their wheel wells. Supposedly it does a better job of protecting the surface and shedding water and dirt. That might be another option.

From what I've read in wood working magazines, silicone is used in many US spray furniture polishes. The problem with using these products on wood is that it is difficult to repair the finish if needed due to the silicone getting in the wood, but most likely not a problem with steel. I have read a few off road threads that say waxoyl is a great protection, displaces water and then protects from future moisture.