What kind of wax should I use on an old fiberglass boat?

[French Toast]

Like the title says. I have a '65 fiberglass boat and the finish its pretty sad. I have some rubbing compound to hopefully work out the oxidization but was wondering what you all would recommend for a wax to apply after that.

Thanks.

 

[bgc]

Re: What kind of wax should I use on an old fiberglass boat?

I just completed a wet sand and polish on my fiberglass boat. I used 600 grit followed by 1500 grit and buffed with "3M Finesse-It Marine finishing material" and a wool pad. Your wax should be for marine use, Meguiar's make a popular one. I know it sounds like a lot of work, and it is, but it works. http://www.meguiars.com/en/marine/products/

Before;

After;

 

[skagit17]

Re: What kind of wax should I use on an old fiberglass boat?

That looks great! If you are just buffing it out, try this product:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0000AY65X

I used it to bring back my 1960 Skagit 17 and it looked amazing. I just sold that boat but it was looking great when I sold her!!

 

[Gpayne]

Re: What kind of wax should I use on an old fiberglass boat?

+1 for sanding first! I just did a few spots on my 76 Thompson as a test. I started with a good wash and wax stripper to remove any dirt and wax, then I sanded with a red fine grit Scotchbrite pad, then some good 3M rubbing compound applied with a small buffer followed by some 3M automotive polish. Really brought the paint back! Of course, now I have the rest of the boat to do. As far as using marine-specific wax/polish, I can't comment one way or the other, as I've never used it before. I'm sure it has something to do with being wet or submerged all the time. But yeah, if you want a really nice finish, you're definitely gonna have to sand the finish lightly to remove 100% of the oxidation.