Exterior oxidation solutions

Jim n Sheran · 06-24-2010, 04:33 PM

I recently purchased a 2006 Sunova with moderate oxidation particularly on the front cap and less on the sides and rear end. Addiitonally, some of the decals have faded/discolored.

I'm storing it undercover, however before I considering waxing it, I thought I'd take a shot at restoring the shine.

Having no experience with this process, yet reading the labels of various products, the claims are inviting.

However practically speaking, can an owner do a credible job or should I seek out a detail shop specializing in fiberglass restoration?

Jim

fun time · 06-24-2010, 05:59 PM

Congratulations on your purchase, nice coach. Not knowing your capabilities it is difficult to provide you with an acceptable answer but here are a couple of comments to ponder. First, assuming you have gel coat and not paint, given the age of your coach I think the oxidation could be restored with not a whole lot of effort. If you are a DIY kind of guy I would first purchase Mequires No. 6 (cleaner/wax) one step. After washing it, use a microfiber applicator and follow their directions. Due only a small area (12"x12") and not in the sun. Wipe clean when dry with another microfiber towel. The result should tell you how in-debth you will have to go on the rest of the front. If you see positive results from this trial then finish the front and your good to go. If the results are not satisfactory, then the job will require more work most likely using a good quality buffer, different type of material such as 3M's oxidation remover. Personally, if you have to go to the second step, you might want to enlist a professional unless you know what you are doing. You can do some damage with a good buffer and cutting pad if you don't know what you are doing. I hope that helps and let us know how it turns out. Good luck

Jim n Sheran · 06-25-2010, 08:17 AM

Many thanks for the tips. I think I'll do as you suggest and try out a small area and go for there.

Jim

Daysu47 · 06-25-2010, 08:24 AM

One note, if you see little black specks in the oxidation, there is no hopw, BUT, if there are no black specks, a good buffing with a professional compound will do it. Iagree with Funtime, if you don't know what you are doing have a pro do for you.

Good luck!!

RocketDork · 06-25-2010, 10:00 AM

What do the black specks indicate?

Daysu47 · 06-25-2010, 05:02 PM

A defect in the jelcoat and the only way to get rid of it is to prep it and paint it. I had that problem on mine, both sides only and only on the white. Ended up painting it, it's better now!! , Local painter with 35 years experience, body shop owner of 40 years, friend, and Winnebago had NO idea what it was or what caused it. Figures!! Only guess was bad gelcoat. Areas that were painted were OK but we had the whole coach painted.

Good luck!