Need to detail truck - Is everything on this list look ok?

[TheOtherSide]

First off, I have been reading this section for a long time. I don't post much in here. This actually, may only be my 2nd or 3rd in this section. And yes, I have searched. But the results are all so different and some but not all of some fit my topics.

Anyway, I have a PC 7336 from last year...yeah, it's still in the box. I finally need to brake down and buy the ****e to get to detailing the truck.

This is the list of things I have come up with that I will need to do the complete exterior job, minus the stuff I already have of course.

First wash: I typically use Zip Wax but if there is something that is a little stronger cleaner but still safe on the finish, let me know. Also, if I am going to polish, rewax, the whole truck, can I use a mild detergent to strip the old wax?

Second: Clay. I have a couple Meguiars bars and lubricants. I think I am ok here.

Third polish: This is where I need the advice. I was thinking of ordering the PoorBoy SSR 1, 2 and 3 and a set of 6.5" Lake Country pads. Will these polishes work fine or should I use the 2.5 instead of the 3/2? Also, as I have no 1st hand experience with polishes, it's going to be a learning process so what else would be recommended in terms of light, medium, heavy polishes?
And...is a good final polish necessary or can the light cut polish do the same thing? What is a good recommedation for this?

Last, wax: I am partial to Collinite 476 over Klasse All-In-One.

Anything I may have missed or any other recommendations? Please let me know. Thanks!

[Pete-FWA]

But the results are all so different and some but not all of some fit my topics.

People's opinions will be different as well...I do think you're off to a good start with your products and your questions.



First wash: I typically use Zip Wax but if there is something that is a little stronger cleaner but still safe on the finish, let me know. Also, if I am going to polish, rewax, the whole truck, can I use a mild detergent to strip the old wax?!

You can use regular car wash soap. If you're going to do some polishing, you'll remove wax that may currently on the surface.



Third polish: This is where I need the advice. I was thinking of ordering the PoorBoy SSR 1, 2 and 3 and a set of 6.5" Lake Country pads. Will these polishes work fine or should I use the 2.5 instead of the 3/2? Also, as I have no 1st hand experience with polishes, it's going to be a learning process so what else would be recommended in terms of light, medium, heavy polishes?
And...is a good final polish necessary or can the light cut polish do the same thing? What is a good recommedation for this?!

What type of defects are you trying to remove?

Most people I know who use Poorboy's SSR's on a Porter Cable polisher tend to use the SSR 2.5 and then go to the SSR 1 for their last step. Not sure if 3 is too aggressive for the PC


Last, wax: I am partial to Collinite 476 over Klasse All-In-One.


Note that Klasse does have some cleaning ability, so it could be redundant if you've already polished your paint to the level of clarity you desire.