Tree branch scratches on fiberglass trailer

[Nick Winn]

So I got all my supplies - the Meguiars Marine/RV Restoration Kit, as well as the DA Polisher with maroon (compounding), yellow (polishing) and black (wax) pads. My question:

Since this is a 1 year old gel coat / fiberglass trailer with barely any oxidation, but MANY scratches from tree branches, should I just use the polish? Or the oxidation compound then polish?

And if I use the oxidation remover, should I use the maroon or yellow pad?

Finally, do I need to clay bar gel coat first?

Thanks!

FYI the directions on the oxidation remover (#49) says to use the mirror glaze cutting pad. So I guess I'd want to use whatever is closest to that.

The M45 Hi Gloss Polish has 0 cleaning or defect removal ability so you will definently want to use the #49 Oxidation Remover. You can try the #49 oxidation remove with the yellow pad first if you would like, and see if the defects are removed with this combination, but I would imagine you will at least need the red cutting pad along with the #M49 Oxidation Remover.

We don't find users claying gel coat/fiberglass very often. Gel Coat/Fiberglass doesn't quite hold onto contaminants like paint does.

[FattyMatty]

Thanks Nick. You were right, it required maroon and 49 and about 20-30 passes on the heavier scratches but they came out and the finish looks incredible after I polished and waxed.

It even took out nasty scratches on the plastic kitchen vent. I'm getting together before and after pics to share on fb. The results are unreal. I'll never be afraid to drive through trees again!

[FattyMatty]

Hey Nick, as I got to the side with the severe scratches it's taking FOREVER to get the scratches out with the maroon pad and #49 oxidation remover.

What is the next step up to make faster work of this?

Or is it possible for 1500rpm Ryobi drill (brand new) is too slow?