Help newb prep for exterior detail.

T

the727kid

New member
Hello, I have never done a "proper" full exterior detail before so work with me a little bit here. My truck is black and I want to get it and keep it looking excellent. The paint is in fairly good condition right now, only minor scratches and swirl marks from the previous owner. I would like some input on what I have planned. Good or bad, all comments are appreciated.

I plan on purchasing this Harbor Freight DA polisher. I have heard good things for it if you plan to seldom use it, and it is on sale for $55.
6 in. 5.7 Amp Heavy Duty Dual Action Variable Speed Polisher

First step is to wash then clay the truck.

I will then start with M205 with an LC orange pad. I have some Ultimate Compound I can use if the M205 doesn't get out certain scratches.

Next up will be M21 for the sealant with LC gray. Followed by either the TechWax 2.0 or the Black Wax Paste with a LC blue pad.

Thoughts on the chrome bumpers? Tech Wax 2.0 ?

I am a newb so I appreciate any input!
 
Sounds like a good plan. What is Tech Wax 2.0?? Is that NXT Tech Wax??

If so it might have some cleaners if you are applying that directly over the Meguiars 21. I would just stick with Meguairs 21 if you want a sealant but you could always top with say Meguiars 26 if you want a nice carnuaba look.
 
Thank you for the response, yes it is the NXT wax. I have a bottle laying around so I figured I would use it but I don't need to. I will look into 26!
 
the727kid said:
Do you have a suggestion for a decent backing plate?
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If you go with Megs pads get the Megs 5" Backing plate. Another great set of pads are the Buff & Shine 5.5" flat pads--very durable and they have recessed Velcro for an added margin of safety when polishing around protruding objects like mirrors etc. If you go that route get a B&S 5" backing plate.

You might also want to think about a 3.5" backing plate for use with 4" pads to polish the tight spaces like bumpers etc. 5 or 5.5" pads are great for the larger areas, but can be a bit of a problem when you get in the tight areas.
 
the727kid said:
Do you have a suggestion for a decent backing plate?
Click to expand...

Buff and Shine 5" backing plate. Its available at the Autopia store for $14.99.

I own a Harbor Freight DA. Its ran like a tank for me. I probably have at least 200 hours on mine. Really a great deal for the money.
 
the727kid said:
Thank you for the response, yes it is the NXT wax. I have a bottle laying around so I figured I would use it but I don't need to. I will look into 26!
Click to expand...

I think you will like the NXT 2.0- many people find it very similar to Megs 21.
Choose one or the other: Just don't try to layer them as you won't accomplish much.
 
two coats of m21 will be all you need for a great finish. if you want to layer some carnauba over it, wait 1/2 to a full day to let the sealant cure first. like pat said, m26 is a good choice if you feel the need.
 
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