I just finished refinishing the first section of my molded fiberglass trailer. The process used is described below. The trailer is about 5 years old and was stored outside in Florida. I don't think it was ever waxed. I just bought the trailer used so I can't be certain about how it was maintained. Regardless the top sections are oxidized to a degree that I can't quantify based on my limited experience. The best description I can give is that it does not shine but the oxidation does not appear to be too deep. In other words, there is not any surface residue that comes off by merely wiping it.
Step 1
Wash and clean the surface. Caked on bugs were a real chore and strangely, only softened enough for removal after the following step.
Step 2
Applied Meguiar's #49 Oxidation Remover with a just purchased Porter Cable #7424, Polisher and a yellow foam pad made by Buff and Shine. I went over all of the areas twice with 4 passes, 2 up and 2 down, and wiping the residue between applications. The PC speed was set at 1.
Step 3
Applied Meguiar's #45 Polish with a green pad. I only applied this once but made the same number of passes described above. The PC speed was set at 1.
Step 4
Applied Meguiar's #63 Flagship Premium Marine Wax by hand.
I'm happy with the results except the finish is somewhat cloudy or hazy compared to areas that were not exposed to the sun and didn't oxidize. The color is definitely whiter and probably the same as it was before. Is there anything that would improve the work? Here's a couple of before and after pictures. The difference doesn't appear to be dramatic, probably because of the white gelcoat.
Step 1
Wash and clean the surface. Caked on bugs were a real chore and strangely, only softened enough for removal after the following step.
Step 2
Applied Meguiar's #49 Oxidation Remover with a just purchased Porter Cable #7424, Polisher and a yellow foam pad made by Buff and Shine. I went over all of the areas twice with 4 passes, 2 up and 2 down, and wiping the residue between applications. The PC speed was set at 1.
Step 3
Applied Meguiar's #45 Polish with a green pad. I only applied this once but made the same number of passes described above. The PC speed was set at 1.
Step 4
Applied Meguiar's #63 Flagship Premium Marine Wax by hand.
I'm happy with the results except the finish is somewhat cloudy or hazy compared to areas that were not exposed to the sun and didn't oxidize. The color is definitely whiter and probably the same as it was before. Is there anything that would improve the work? Here's a couple of before and after pictures. The difference doesn't appear to be dramatic, probably because of the white gelcoat.
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