Correction and protection for good white paint on an older truck.

[97zman]

I've been out of the loop for a while so I could use the the collective wisdom this very capable group.

I just bought a 2005 GMC Canyon with only 74K on it from a family friend. It is Arctic White and has been garage stored so is in surprisingly good shape. I'm primarily interested in getting it protected since it will now have to stay outside, unfortunately.

I have a DA polisher with a fair complement of Lake Country pads.

I plan to use some IronX or comparable product and clay it for starters. I've been using the two bucket method for a long while and will certainly give it a good wash. Since it hasn't been abused I was thinking of a one step polish/swirl remover and I'm totally open to suggestions.


I would also like to know if you would polish the fender flairs like the rest of the car. I have no knowledge in this area.

I've used McGuire's 105-205 combo in the past but that is all I have any experience with. That truck was in a lot worse shape but turned out pretty well. All that to say I'm not afraid to try other things as that was my first use of a DA polisher at all.

Finally what would be a good user friendly way to protect the paint for a reasonable amount of time. Maybe something I would only need to apply a couple of times a year. I also want to protect all the black trim as best as possible as well. The only product I currently have is the VRP form Chemical Guys.

Any advise and suggestions are appreciated. Picture attached for reference.



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[craigdt]

welcome!

The Meguiars 105/205 combo didn't get any worse over the years, but some new polishes have come along that are a bit easier to work with.

That being said, no reason you can't stick with what you've used in the past.
I was a former 105/205 user, and converted to the Griots Boss polishes, and am trying Sonax Perfect Finish.

I don't see any reason you wouldn't also correct your fender flares. They are likely a plastic, but just watch the temps and you'll be fine.

For protection, the thing nowadays is coatings.
Some are really easy to use, some are really hard to use. And they all last a pretty long time, and are really hard.
We'll let another member who has experience in this area address coatings.

For more traditional protection, the same 'ol sealants and waxes you are familiar with are still just as good as they ever were.
A sealant like Wolfgang Deep Gloss Sealant will last 3-6 months per application, based on typical feedback.

Waxes, probably somewhat less, maybe in the 3 month-ish range depending on which one.

As far as black trim, I have heard great things about Solution Finish- both the basic product and the Over the Top sealant.
I purchased both, and plan to use this spring on my Tuscon that has plenty of black trim.

Lets see what others say, you'll get some great input here.