Detailing noob what to use on a white van?

[1bhp]

I have a 2009 white Renault master van that i converted into a camper, the paint is pretty dull and most likley never been polished in its life. I came across some pictures online of a similar van, the before shots look like my van in terms of how the paint is and the after shot was so mind blowing its inspired me to have a go myself on my own, Sadly i was unable to find any info on which products were used on the paint.

I have been doing some research but like anything when you are complete new there is so much information out there its takes a while to take it all in. I am going to order a DA polishing machine and some cutting and polishing pads, I would appreciate any advice on what products to use though, should i get a separate cutting compound and polish or are there any good all in ones i could use?

Pics bellow of the van i found online that started out looking very much like mine.


|https://thumbsnap.com/FMPpeAHb[/url]

|https://thumbsnap.com/YwCZNbPY[/url]

[domster]

White is your friend as the end finish won't be so critical. Get microfibre pads for the DA and look at mid to strong polishes (cutting compounds are just strong polishes). You'll need to test it with a mid polish first, then maybe hit it with something more aggressive but technique is critical and you may even go a bit snowblind staring at all the white paint. Do it in sections and don't rush it.

Then plonk a wax or sealant over the top after machine polishing. Decon the van fully first, of course - never machine a dirty vehicle. Wash and clay prior.

[Belle427]

I’ve used this a few times with good results, used it with a Das 6 pro machine and some medium hex logic pads.
https://www.cleanyourcar.co.uk/scholl-s20-black-1-...

[markcoznottz]

Wet sand it before m/ polishing. Can’t be beaten on old vans. Order some 5000 and 7000 grit wet and dry off eBay, carefully flat back by hand until the paper drags with no noise or roughness, obviously 5k then 7k in that order. Use a bucket of soapy water and rinse between panels with a hosepipe. Wash and rinse the van before you commence the job, don’t bother claying or drying etc. If there is a lot of tar spots on the lower half of the panels buy some tardis and de-tar before commencing wet sanding. Machine polish with compound using any old machine or brand it matters not on white, just use what breaks down nicely. No need to de hologram white, especially on vans, seal paint with whatever product you have.

[anonymous-user]

Belle427 said:

I’ve used this a few times with good results, used it with a Das 6 pro machine and some medium hex logic pads.
https://www.cleanyourcar.co.uk/scholl-s20-black-1-...

That’s a brilliant compound right there.

OP. I would say if you’re new to polishing with a DA. Get practice in on a spare bonnet or something you don’t mind messing up. Usually speed 1-2 can be used to spread the product. Speed 4-5 is sufficient for cut. The higher you go the more ferocious the cutting power. Keep even pressure on the pad but not too much. Never stay in one place for too long as it will burn the paint. Technique is probably more important than product. Preparation is key. Wash. Decontamination. Clay bar if need be etc. Various pads give various cuts.

Edited by Super_G on Friday 19th March 22:58