Well, Ive been reading and reading and reading....

I have 2 subject cars 1 of which is a little older (02) the other is brand new, they both need to be brought up to snuff in regards to the exterior. That said they could also both use a little interior work too but for now ill focus on the exterior. 2 different needs with hopefully a similar outcome.

so Ive gone out and purchased some stuff (need to finish the shopping) to hopefully accomplish this task, I think im on the right track but wanted to get the final thoughts from the group.

wash
dry
megs clay
wash
dry
megs scratchx where appropriate (possibly none on the new f150)
deep crystal cleaner
megs no7
megs nxt wax

I need some advise about the chrome on the running boards, and black trim. I was thinking of getting some 303 for the black plastic but, it seems like there is mixed reviews on that. as for the chrome on the running boards, I was thinking of just using the nxt wax.

Anyone care to let me know what I might change?

 

Decent plan but, depending on what you have at hand, the DC Cleaner might not get through it. Do you have access to an Auto Zone or Pep Boys? If so, you may consider grabbing a bottle of #9 Swirl Remover 2.0.

Two coats of the NXT at the end. This ensures a uniform coverage and great protection. Space the two coats out over 12-hours (cure time).

303 for the black plastic... great thought. If you can't find it, Vinylex is another great product (they'll have it at Pep Boys).

On the chrome (are they factory?) -- The NXT is a very safe bet. If they're factory, they're likely clear coated. As such, you SHOULD NOT use a metal polish on them. Metal polish is typically either more chemically aggressive or abrasive and can work through clear coat fairly easily.

-RP-

 

thanks for the reply

No pepboys, but we do have an autozone.

I didnt see any #9 there so I guess ill have to search some out, or just get some online. Im assuming i wouldnt need the #9 on the new truck, Its only about a month old.

Would it be advisable to put a layer of #26 over the last nxt?

Thanks again

 

It seems like most of the auto parts places around where I live carry a couple of the M line products, varies by store but normally #26, #7 and then a couple others, #9,#80,#83, depends on the store. It can get annoying driving all over town chasing after a particular product. If you haven't seen posts mentioning autodetailingsolutions.com (also referred to as ADS) they pretty much carry all things Meguiar's and have great prices and service to boot!

Go ahead and do the #26 over the NXT if you don't mind the extra effort. There are a lot of posts in this section about synthetics (NXT) topped with carnubas (#26). Basically the carnuba offers a better look (depth, pop) but less protection than a synthetic so this way you get the best of both worlds. Be sure to allow the NXT to cure before topping with #26.