Finished Detailing the Red Rocket

[mr2man]

Hello, I just finished the exterior detail on the RED ROCKET (my 1989 Toyota MR2 Supercharged) It came out better than expected but not perfect. The paint was that redish-orange faded color that happens to red cars over time.Actually, I think it looks pretty good for 17 year old paint thats been neglected in the hot Florida sun for a long time. Heres what I did........
Wash (NXT wash)
*wetsanded the roof with 2000 due to severity of damage
Clay
Wash again (same)
Menzerna PG with Metabo rotary and Orange LC/VC pad 1600 RPMs
Menzerna IP with orange cutter too at 1600 RPMs
Menzerna FP2 with white polisher 1500 RPMs
Menzerna FTG with black finisher 1500 RPMs
Menzerna FMJ with Blue finisher 800 RPMs
Trade Secret wax (X2)

All in all not bad for someone who hadnt used a buffer in 10 years. Some would call it CrAzY. I only burned the paint in 2 VERY small spots due to my own stupidity (Hey, its my car and ill burn the paint if i want too LOL. If you can buff a car with as many sharp angles as this car, you can buff just about anything! What did I learn from this experience.....
1) Practice with your buffer first even if youre like an old pro like me who hasnt done it in a long time
2) Dont detail Toyota MR2s!
3) Find the products you like and work best for you and stick with them.
4) The Metabo rules!
5) :dcrules Ive gotten a lot of good tips from this site!

Here are some photos.......... befores and afters in order

[mr2man]

Here are some mo pics........... :dj

[mr2man]

Here is the ACTUAL car. Forgot the picture...sheesh

[MS22]

All I can say is WOW! That is one amazing turnaround.

[mr2man]

thanks, it was tough but worth the effort. It took about 7-8 hours to do it.

[wytstang]

Very nice turn around great job.

[Hawaiianelement]

you really brought it back to life. way to go man

[mr2man]

Thanks again, I find that red is almost as difficult to work with (in bad condition) as black cars are. :lol Kidding....black cars suck!

[crobinso]

Looking good, looking good. I have a friend who bought a 1989 MR2 and I remember when it was bright red like yours is now. It faded to a rust color before he got rid of it in 1997. It is good to see that this car can be restored to its original color with a little TLC.

Charles

[AZ Ferrari Man]

what type pf tire dressing did you use, looks great!

Andrew

[mr2man]

believe it or not.....I used some cheap OTC tire gloss from advanced auto parts. I apply it by hand and let it sit for a few. Then, I wipe it down with an old rag well. I suggest not driving with it on for at least a few hours, otherwise, youll get that nasty,silicone, monster spray all over the side of your freshly detailed car.

[bermi23]

Excellent Work. What a change.