I always just use the spray-on feature at the local car wash for wax vs. the old couple of hour pile of towels project. Will I go to hell for this? What are the advantages of getting some really good wax and taking your time with it?

Yep! Your goin' straight to hell man! The obvious reason for using paste wax and doing it by hand is the fact that it is simply better coverage (if you do it right) and will probably outlast the spray on stuff and give better protection as well. Think about it...... does the drive through car wash do an excellent job on your truck? I highly doubt it. On the other hand, you, a bucket, mitt, good soap and the hose can do a great job every time. I guess it all comes down to how motivated you are and if you even care weather your truck looks good or not.

Yep! Your goin' straight to hell man! The obvious reason for using paste wax and doing it by hand is the fact that it is simply better coverage (if you do it right) and will probably outlast the spray on stuff and give better protection as well. Think about it...... does the drive through car wash do an excellent job on your truck? I highly doubt it. On the other hand, you, a bucket, mitt, good soap and the hose can do a great job every time. I guess it all comes down to how motivated you are and if you even care weather your truck looks good or not.

Well said!! I always try to wash and wax it by hand. Except for in the winter I don't really have a choice.

The car wash spray wont last much past the first rain. A good wax will protect the clear and paint for months. I use the spray in the winter especially on the underside to protect from salt corrosion and make the slop stick less.

Bought a Dodge van in 1972 and sold it in 1985. Metallic brown or tan color. All it ever got was wash/wax combination stuff and it still looked very good when I got rid of it. If you really want good appearance and max protection paste wax is the best. For just keeping it cleaned and not sweating a perfect finish the other stuff will suffice esp now with the clear coat finishes.