Dilution Ratio Cheat Sheet

Get the best results with the right mix—every time.

When it comes to getting the most out of your Chem-X soaps, sealants, and specialty cleaners, proper dilution is essential. Whether you're washing a fleet, detailing your ride, or managing a maintenance bay, this guide breaks down the optimal dilution ratios for each Chem-X product by application method.

Note: If you're using a Chem-X/Suttner Foam injector, it dilutes at 100-1 automatically. Simply take the pick-up tube, place it into your Gallon, and tighten the Chem-X Flow Cap. The Injector will do the rest of the work.

Touch-Free Wash Soaps

Stars (Step 1 – Acidic Pre-Treatment)

• Foam Cannon: 4 parts water to 1 part Stars (4:1)
• Power Washer / Injector: Run at 100:1 Panel Impact Ratio (PIR)
• Notes: Apply to a cool, wet surface. Do not allow to dry. Follow immediately with Stripes.

Stripes (Step 2 – Alkaline Neutralizer)

• Foam Cannon: 4 parts water to 1 part Stripes (4:1)
• Power Washer / Injector: Run at 100:1 PIR
• Notes: Follow Stars with a thorough rinse. Do not let Stripes dry on the surface.

Old Glory (Single-Step Alkaline Soap)

• Foam Cannon: 4 parts water to 1 part Old Glory (4:1)
• Pump Sprayer: 100:1 dilution
• Power Washer / Injector: Run at 100:1 PIR
• Notes: Great for touch-free single-step cleaning. Not to be used with Stars or Stripes. Rinse before drying.

Sealants & Surface Protection

Snake Oil (SiO₂ Ceramic Foam Sealant)

• Foam Cannon: 4 parts water to 1 part Snake Oil (4:1)
• Pump Sprayer: 100:1 dilution
• Power Washer / Injector: Run at 100:1 PIR
• Notes: Apply to a clean, wet surface after rinsing. Dwell for 30–60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly. Do not let dry.

Awesome Sauce (Gloss Enhancer)

• Pump Sprayer / Foam Cannon: Use undiluted or dilute up to 4:1
• Notes: Adds a quick, high-gloss finish. Avoid use in direct sunlight.

Eagle Guard (Salt Neutralizer + Rust Inhibitor)

• Foam Cannon: 4 parts water to 1 part Eagle Guard (4:1)
• Pump Sprayer: 100:1 dilution
• Power Washer / Injector: Run at 100:1 PIR
• Notes: Ideal for undercarriage protection and equipment exposed to salt or brine. Rinse thoroughly. Do not let dry.

Foam Soaps & Wash Solutions

Liquid-X (Polymer Sealant Wash)

• Bucket + Mitt: 2–3 oz Liquid-X per 2.5 gallons of water
• Foam Cannon: Dilute 1 part Liquid-X to 10 parts water (10:1)
• Notes: Safe for ceramic and graphene coatings. Adds slickness and protection. Do not allow to dry on the surface.

Foam: Mitt Wash

• Bucket Wash: ½ oz per gallon (256:1)
• Notes: Use for contact washing with a wash mitt and grit guard. Gentle and effective.

Degreasers & Specialty Cleaners

Heavy Duty (Degreaser & Wheel Cleaner)

• Tire & Wheel Cleaning: Dilute 10:1 with water
• Heavy Degreasing: Dilute 3:1 with water
• Notes: Great for frames, engines, undercarriages, and wheels. Apply with a pump sprayer and rinse thoroughly. Do not let dry.

Witch’s Brew (Iron + Rust Remover)

• iK Trigger Sprayer: Dilute 3:1 (3 parts water to 1 part Witch’s Brew)
• Notes: Spray on cool surfaces. Let dwell for 2–3 minutes max. Rinse thoroughly. Do not let dry.

D-Lime 90 (Citrus Degreaser & Asphalt Remover)

• Light-Duty Use: Apply a small amount to a cloth and wipe away gunk
• Heavy-Duty Use: Use undiluted in a pump sprayer
• Notes: Excellent for removing tar, adhesives, and grease. Spot test on sensitive surfaces. Rinse thoroughly.

Aluminum & Metal Care

M-Shine (Polished Aluminum Cleaner)

• Brush Application (Bucket): Start at 100:1 and adjust as needed
• Foam Cannon: Fill ¼ of the cannon bottle with M-Shine, then top off with water
• Power Washer / Pail Injector: Mix 1 gallon of M-Shine with 3–4 gallons of water
• Notes: Designed for polished aluminum and bare metal. Apply to cool surfaces and rinse thoroughly. Do not let dry.

Tires, Trim & Interior Cleaners

Tire + Trim (Rubber & Plastic Dressing)

• Pump Sprayer: Use undiluted
• Notes: Apply to clean, dry surfaces. Buff to desired finish for a rich, conditioned look.

Interior (All-Purpose Interior Cleaner)

• Pump Sprayer: 4:1 to 10:1 dilution
• Notes: Safe on vinyl, plastic, rubber, and leather. Adjust strength based on surface sensitivity.

Final Tips

• Always rinse thoroughly after applying any soap or chemical—especially on polished aluminum or matte surfaces.
• Never allow soaps or sealants to dry on the surface, unless explicitly directed.