Custom Shop KW901 Grease & Wax Remover Quart — Surface Prep Cleaner for Automotive Paint, Fast-Drying for Reliable Adhesion

Custom Shop KW901 is a fast-acting grease and wax remover that dissolves surface contaminants so painted panels are clean and ready for reliable paint adhesion.

Before applying primer, basecoat or clearcoat, removing oils, waxes, silicone, tar and adhesive residue is critical for professional-looking automotive paintwork. KW901 is formulated to break down and lift these contaminants on painted surfaces, bare metal, plastics, epoxy and fiberglass so they can be wiped away without leaving residue. Fast-drying and designed for use with lint-free cloths, this quart-sized surface prep cleaner is a practical choice for body shops, restorers and DIYers preparing panels for sanding and topcoat application.

How does KW901 improve paint adhesion?

KW901 dissolves common surface films—like wax, grease, tree sap and silicone—that interfere with primer and paint bonding. By removing those barriers, the product helps ensure primers and topcoats contact the substrate directly, reducing the risk of fish-eyes, delamination, or uneven coverage. It evaporates quickly and leaves minimal residue when wiped correctly.

• Dissolves oils, waxes and silicones that block adhesion
• Works on painted panels, metal, plastic, epoxy, and fiberglass
• Fast evaporation reduces downtime between cleaning and coating
• Use separate wet and dry lint-free cloths for best results

When and how should I use it during my paint process?

Use KW901 after any final sanding and before applying primer or basecoat. Apply with a clean, lint-free cloth, using a separate cloth to remove dissolved contaminants so you don’t reintroduce them to the surface. For stubborn residues, repeat the application until the panel is clean; allow the surface to flash a few moments before proceeding with paint.

• Clean immediately after final sanding or bodywork
• Apply with a wet cloth, then wipe off with a separate dry cloth
• Repeat for heavy contamination; allow brief flash-off before painting
• Not a substitute for degreasing heavy oil leaks—use appropriate cleaners first

What surfaces and contaminants is it compatible with?

KW901 is formulated for a broad range of automotive substrates including cured paint, bare metal, plastics, epoxy coatings and fiberglass. It targets grease, wax, tar, adhesive residue and silicones plus tree sap and light road grime. Always test in an inconspicuous area when working on delicate plastics or older finishes.

• Safe for painted surfaces, metal, plastic, epoxy and fiberglass
• Effective on wax, adhesive residue, tar, sap and silicone films
• Use caution on matte or specialty finishes—spot test first
• Designed to dry quickly with no persistent residue

What application tips maximize results and safety?

Use two lint-free cloths: one for applying the cleaner and one for removing dissolved contaminants. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid prolonged contact with rubber or soft plastics. Dispose of used wipes safely and store the quart upright in a cool, dry place.

• Use separate wet and removal cloths to avoid recontamination
• Work panel-by-panel to keep surfaces clean during prep
• Ventilate the workspace and follow all label safety directions
• Store sealed and upright; keep away from heat or open flame

Who is this for? KW901 is intended for professional body shops, restoration specialists and experienced DIY painters who need a reliable surface prep cleaner before priming and painting. If you require consistent removal of oils, waxes, silicones and adhesive residues from automotive panels, or you need a fast-drying prep wipe for fiberglass and plastics, this product provides a straightforward, made-in-USA solution to help improve the consistency of your paintwork.