Need help selecting compounds for large project

[Zack S]

Hello all, I am new to the detailing game. After doing some research I purchased a Meguairs MT300 buffer, along with the backer (DBP5) and an assortment of foam pads, orange, yellow, white, black, etc. I have never so much as used a "real" buffer (just little cheap things) but after getting quotes and realizing all the other uses I could have for it, I feel this equipment could work out well for me.

Now, the primary task I purchased this for is a big one! I own a 30 foot fiberglass boat that was at some point repainted (not gelcoat). They did a great job but the finish is very old now and chalky in many areas. I am not expecting this to look new again, but I would like to bring the gloss back, and preferably in as few steps as possible, keeping in mind the size of the project and need for ladders to get to a lot of the spots.

Can anyone direct me into the appropriate compounds, pads and speeds to use the products with? Again, not expecting perfection, primarily want most of the shine back, and hopefully a lasting finish in a harsh environment. Any and all advise is appreciated.

[b-rad]

Re: Need help selecting compounds for large project

I personally would go with a product like Megs M20 from the Mirror Glaze line and a polishing pad. I know its not made for boats but if you use slow arm movement on speed 3 or 4 it works. In my experience this process as a one step works well to clean up the chalky stuff and leave some shine behind. Remember to clean your pad periodically throughout the process. It is a sealant so the protection is good too.

[Nick Winn]

Re: Need help selecting compounds for large project

Welcome to Meguiar's On-Line and congratulations on your new Meguiar's MT300 Dual Action Polisher.

As b-rad mentioned a good cleaner wax like Meguiar's #20 Polymer Sealant would be an easy one step choice, removing light oxidation, restoring gloss, and adding protection in one step. Although #20 Polymer Sealant is a great "all in one" product, it is going to be limited in the amount of oxidation it can remove, so depending on the amount of oxidation the boat has, you may need to use a dedicated compound, like Meguiar's Ultimate Compound. Ultimate Compound can be used on a foam polishing or foam cutting pad depending on the amount of defect removal you are trying to achieve, at speeds 4800 - 5800 OPM. Meguiar's Ultimate Polish would be a great next step to add even more gloss, and from there all you would need is a good coat of wax like our Ultimate Wax for protection.

Meguiar's Ultimate Compound
Meguiar's Ultimate Polish
Meguiar's Ultimate Wax

It should be noted we are recommending products designed for automotive paint as this boat has been painted. Typically boats are a non painted gel coat or fiberglass, and in these cases we would recommend using our Marine/RV Line of products.