It's a preference thing. Some products really leave a wet look to the paint and make it look really glossy with a great deal of shine. IMO, the orange peel is more noticeable in that situation. Products that bring out more depth than gloss can give warmth to the color and IMO orange peel is less noticeable. For me a product like Blackfire Crystal Seal glosses things up same with layers of carnauba. A product like CG Jet Seal 109 isn't as shiny but gives depth. This isn't exclusive to a type (wax or sealant) and my observations only. At the end of the day, you are talking opinions and others may differ. While you hoped for better results, your outcome was pretty successful so enjoy the results and maintain the work you did.

 

Thanks for everyone's input, I'm gonna maintain for now and then revisit in spring.

 

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I used clay bay (Mothers) for the first time on a black 2008 I bought, detailed from the dealer. WOW what a difference it made. But I also followed with a polish and wax. Finish albeit 4 years old at the time, looked like glass!

When I ran out of liquid that came with the original Mothers product, I just used Meguirs Quick Detailer. Regardless of which I used, I would sometimes see a drying of the liquid prior to wiping, probably because it was too hot.

I don't believe your truck was dirty enough to see a real advantage of clay bar, but being proactive does not hurt.

 

^^the mothers quick detail smells like Christmas

I clayed my truck for its first time (and have since done it again and it realistically needs another one) and man it was gross. Granted, my truck is white so i have it double as bad.
Haven't had time to pull out the DA to do some correction but hopefully in the spring I can.

 

I does appear that the clay hazed the paint in the photos you used. Yes claying is a process by which you need to follow up with a polish. Clay comes in different agressivensss and even the least agressive can mar the finish.

I would follow up with something like Megs 205 or 3D polish on a black or blue pad and that should help.

Cheers,
GREG