clay bar DIY or get a pro?

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stephygee

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I've always had my truck professionally detailed. Wax buildup is always a problem. Recently took it to a body shop for color sanding and it looks like a fresh coat of paint.
 
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BlueCollarTahoe

BlueCollarTahoe

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thanks for all the replies. after weighing everything i decided this time ill take it somewhere. Found a place nearby with a good rep for doing this stuff so soon my ride goes for the works. Thanks
 

stevot22

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I agree with treehan77. With the right equipment and products you can restore the finish. Clay bar is just the start and does a good job of cleaning up the paint.

Check out the Auto Geek website for how to videos. I have an '04 black Z71 that I started cleaning up and restoring. Purchased a Porter Cable polisher and a series of Poor Boy's products and couldn't be happier with the results. Once you get the finish right it only takes minimal effort to maintain it.

Highly recommend the Poor Boy's (PB) products for ease of use and results. They also have an informative forum where the company's owner often replies to requests for advice.

My initial steps were:

  1. Clay Bar
  2. Polish; PB SSR 1 or 2 for a scratched or heavily swirl-marked surface. PB Pro Polish for clear coat cleanup.
  3. PB Black Hole Glaze
  4. PB EX-P Poly Sealant; 2 coats
  5. PB Natty's Blue carnauba
  6. PB Trim Restorer for all of that Z71 plastic trim

Sure there's the initial investment, but if you have the time you will save alot of $$, given it costs ~$175 around here for a detail.

Good Luck.
 
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BlueCollarTahoe

BlueCollarTahoe

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Eventually i want to do it all myself im just hesistant lol Its nothing special but it's my first car and i wanted one for a looong time:):D:win:
 
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BlueCollarTahoe

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im gonna try and get this done this week hopefully. Ill reply back with an update
 

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