wax on wax off

[lighthousealarms]

I have used many different brands of waxes over the 30+ years I have been a boat owner. Most have done an OK job, but never have any really overlly impressed me. So I thought I would throw this subject out there and see what everyone else uses and what they like / dislike. Thanks.

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: wax on wax off

Have always used 3M Marine Waxes on our boats. Our 1976 Gel Coat is original and looks like new.

 

[JJS1]

Re: wax on wax off

Have always used 3M Marine Waxes on our boats. Our 1976 Gel Coat is original and looks like new.

Would that be 3M's "Imperial Hand Glaze?"

 

[dlngr]

Re: wax on wax off

Sounds like you might need a good 'polish'-by hand or machine, THEN a coat of wax.

 

[dlngr]

Re: wax on wax off

Lighthouse,take a look at the link posted below 'making your boat look new again-that's what I was talking about!!

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: wax on wax off

Would that be 3M's "Imperial Hand Glaze?"

I believe it is the 3M Marine Cleaner & Wax. I suppose we could throw on a pure wax afterwards, but the boat gelcoat has been glass smooth since we got it over 10 years ago from the original owner who only used the 3M stuff. The boat doesn't sit in the water, and probably only gets about 30 hours/summer of use, so the extra protection isn't warranted in our case. The boat only has 600 hours on it anyway.

 

[AZSenza]

Re: wax on wax off

Every year before the "Season" starts I give it a good buffing with a polishing compund followed by 2 coats of wax. I just stated using Collinite. Its a little pricy but not too bad. After each trip we spray it down with a water vinagar solution to stop any water spots. About once a month I wash it with marine wash followed by another coat of wax. She's pretty and slick! NOW if I could just get all the crud off the bottom! I've read a few posts on here for what to use, I just need to get after it.

 

[JJS1]

Re: wax on wax off

Every year before the "Season" starts I give it a good buffing with a polishing compund followed by 2 coats of wax. I just stated using Collinite. Its a little pricy but not too bad. After each trip we spray it down with a water vinagar solution to stop any water spots. About once a month I wash it with marine wash followed by another coat of wax. She's pretty and slick! NOW if I could just get all the crud off the bottom! I've read a few posts on here for what to use, I just need to get after it.

Collinite is a GREAT product. I have a 1971 Corvette (LT-1) and I only use Collinite's "Marque D'Elegance" on it. Like you said, it's a little pricey but well worth the money.

 

[cbavier]

Re: wax on wax off

I use Meguires Marine Wax. I also have collinite Insulator wax. The collinite is easy to apply but a BEAR to get off even with a polisher. The Meguires buffs right off. In fact it comes off so easy. I just use a rag and handwipe.

 

[dingbat]

Re: wax on wax off

I also have collinite Insulator wax. The collinite is easy to apply but a BEAR to get off even with a polisher.

Collinite is only a bear to get off if you don't follow directions and allow it to dry.

It comes off quite easily if you follow the instructions and remove it while still wet.

 

[cbavier]

Re: wax on wax off

Yea the last time I put it on. I took it off as it dried but before it got hazed dry and it came off a lot easier. I still prefer Meguires but have 3 1/2 bottles of Collinite so looks like I will be using Collinite for several years to come.

 

[FlyinGuy1017]

Re: wax on wax off

Hate the be the cheapo, but i've never had a complaint about NuFinish. Hand buff a coat or two into your gelcoat, wax if needed (but you won't, it's more smoothing than wax), and you won't have anything to worry about.

Remember, wax breaks down fast when exposed to sunlight. That's why the bottle says 'don't use in direct sun...' I've found polishes to bring a better 'feel' while providing a great protection from UV.

I've also had very good results from paint sealants. Seals and protects the paint while you can use your choice of waxes/polishes for the finish product.

 

[triumphrick]

Re: wax on wax off

I too use 3M products. I use the boat cleaner with wax and the finesse-it for a top coat. It takes all the swirl marks off and seems to hold up pretty good. I pour it out in a tupperware container and use a paint brush to put them on. I use a 7" polisher for the cleaner and a 10" random orbital for the finesse-it. Once a year for this Florida sun and it will hold up. I do use a boat cover when not in the water, but it sees a lot of days use as we go all year round down here!