waxing

[FSUDTD]

Morning fellas,<br /><br />I am planning on stripping my '88 15' sailfish cc of all its hardware and refininshing/waxing it this weekend. I have purchased some rubbing compound/wax all-in-one formula made by 3M which I plan to apply with an electric buffer at about 2500 RPM. I was wondering if anyone has had any experiece with this process or product. I am interested in any tips, suggestions, and/or results that anyone can share. Thanks so much!!<br /><br />brandon

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: waxing

Brandon,the rubbing compound should only be used for severe oxidation or stains.Polishing compound is safer to use .There are many quality 3m products that clean and polish in 1 step.What you use depends on the condition of your gelcoat.Best to do the job in the shade.The sun and heat will dry any products you use.You want to be able to work the product with the buffer.Thats how you will get the best results.Charlie

 

[FSUDTD]

Re: waxing

Thanks Crazy Charlie,<br /><br />There is some oxidation to the gel coat, that is why I chose the rubbing compound istead of the other polish/cleaner combos. I will take your advice on the shade idea though; makes sense, so she'll stay in the garage for this project!!<br /><br />thanks again,<br /><br />brandon

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: waxing

There are a few "color restorer" products that are just the right combo of compounds and polish.The best I have ever used is Dolfinite.It was almost $20 but was worth it.It is a liquid which is preferrable over a paste with a buffing wheel.Charlie

 

[umblecumbuz]

Re: waxing

One more little tip.<br /><br />With a power buffer, it's very easy to take the glaze OFF the gelcoat if you keep it still. It overheats the surface and blends all the muck in instead of removing it. Keep the buffer mobile at all times, and wash or wipe off excess frequently.