What steps to protect a brand new truck

[bigiron]

I appologize if this has been posted to death but I couldn't come up with what I was looking for by searching.



I just got a new f350 in Tuxedo Black which is a metallic black. I'm primarily interested in durability as we get some weather here in Idaho in the winter.



What are the recommended steps and product suggestions to get some protection on the paint?



After that's done what about the maintenance? Wash and quick detailer?



Once again, sorry if I missed this subject in my searches.



Thank you for your help!

 

[gigondaz]

Since you're primarily interested in durability and protection, the most durable protective layer would certainly be the high-end/high tech coatings (CQuartz, Gzox, Opti-Coat etc). Sure it's expensive, but I'm not aware of any waxes or common sealants that will surpass the above coatings in terms of durability.

 

[Dan]

BigIron,



If you want durability and not too much work, I suggest claying the surface, using a cleaner/light polish like ColorX or Duragloss DG501 and then top with Collinite 845 or Duragloss 105. With those steps, you should be covered for 4-6 months without issues. If you want anything to last longer, you are going to have to use one of the coatings that gigondaz metioned, those however require more prep work and are much harder to obtain.

 

[bigiron]

gigondaz Is there anything I do prep wise before using the Opti-Coat? Also, I'm a compleat idiot at advanced car care, is this a product I can apply or should I look for a pro in my area to put this on?

 

[ltebow34]

Since you're primarily interested in durability and protection, the most durable protective layer would certainly be the high-end/high tech coatings (CQuartz, Gzox, Opti-Coat etc). Sure it's expensive, but I'm not aware of any waxes or common sealants that will surpass the above coatings in terms of durability.

I just dont understand your reply to someone who unfamilar with proper finish care of vehicles. Sure coatings are great, but wouldnt "basics" be a good start as well see as how he has to keep truck?







bigiron, yakky has great advices.



But you can start buy purchasing proper wash items for safe wash and maintenance of protections. You can probably claybar to start too before you put on protection to ensure no bonded dirts. FOr wax and sealant, Duragloss, Finish Kare and Collinite are all easy and durable to use.