it's that time of year...wash & wax

[caheaton]

Hello. Getting ready to give Skippy his first wash and wax. I've been scanning the forums and have had decided to use a two step process: a thorough wash with Meguiars boat wash followed by a waxing with Meguiars M50 (with hand buffing). But after taking a look at 303, I'm wondering if 303 RV Wash & Seal would be faster. Does it really wash and "wax" (I realize the sealant is just an UV protectant and not really a wax) in the same step, or do I still need to wash with a marine or automotive soap first? How durable is the 303 finish? I seem to recall that it doesn't last as long, but if it's really a one step process then I wouldn't mind having to repeat later in the year.

One more question just came to me, I see many use 303 to protect the decals and exposed plastic bits. Do you apply this after washing and before waxing or after waxing?

Thanks in advance for the tips.

FOLLOW UP: Just checked with Rufus on Amazon and it seems the UV protection only lasts about 4 to 6 weeks with 303. A bit shorter than I expected, but my questions regarding all in one step still holds.

 

[brroberts]

We wash and use regular 303. We don’t wax, and have never used wash and wax. I would certainly wash before applying any gelcoat protection.

 

[Ron in BC]

We don’t wax, and have never used wash and wax. I would certainly wash before applying any gelcoat protection.

I do nothing but wax, decals and all. Can't be too bad for decals because I've had some that lasted 25 years.

I've always considered wash and wax as a good way to seal the grime under a layer of wax.

Ron

 

[RGL2]

So what washing product is recommended and what wax if any are most using to keep these glass babies looking shiny new?

 

[jack sparrow]

Hey All,

Just finished a thorough wash and wax to my "Escape to Margaritaville" 21ne two weeks ago.

I find that Dawn dish washing liquid does a great job of cleaning the trailer. Gentle on the gel-coat, and cleans the road grime. Have used this on my cars and trucks for years, no since changing now.

As for the waxing, I used Meguiar's Premium Marine Wax. Claims to be long-lasting, and durable protection. It really did do a good job of cleaning and giving the trailer a great shine. My Escape is not two years old yet, but this wax gave it a greater shine to the beautiful shine it already had.

But at the end of the day it all boils down to what you want , and what works for you. Just sharing my experience as to what I did.

Cheers to ya.......... and Happy Trails........ Jack

 

[Escapeesinmo]

Following.... I'm waiting for the crazy pollen to calm and then I'll tackle mine for the first time. I can't really say what works as I've never dealt with Gelcoat. I'll probably wash really well. Polish with a random orbital polisher. Finally, I'll likely spray a ceramic sealant and spread by hand with a microfiber.

 

[mr.stang]

Here is what I do. Last year, I used a hard detergent, tide and washed the trailer. It is a 2002 in Florida and covered about 50% of the time. Next I worked in sections and used Adams Surface prep, a spray on pre wax. Then I used Groits garage ceramic liquid wax. Last years application was still going strong, but I like to protect my investment. The trailer still looks factory fresh.