PDA

View Full Version : Opti-coat 2.0 right for RV side panels????



BobP
09-19-2011, 12:36 AM
Need some help with the side panels of a small Winnebago.
These panels are aluminum painted white with decals.
The white paint does not polish up to the rest of the vehicle and the paint is thin on the aluminum and easily polished thru.

Looking for a way to get better shine on these panels and was considering Opti-Coat 2.0 to essentially add a clear coat that would create a better shine and provide some protection to the thin factory paint.

Questions:
#1. Is Opti-Coat right for this application?
#2. Would I put Opti-Coat on the Decals too?
#3. Any other options you can suggest?
#4. Anyone actually tried this?

Thanks for any and all help!

Bob P

Chris Thomas
09-19-2011, 11:29 AM
1. Yes
2. Yes
3. Prep is key to a successful application. Make sure the panels are clean, dry, and free from oxidation/defects.
4. Yes

BobP
09-19-2011, 12:29 PM
Wow-
I like clear direct answers!
Wish my wife could communicate like this.
Sold.
Going to order and get started.
Thanks!

Bob P

rkm
09-22-2011, 10:54 AM
Bob - We have the same Rialta, will be trying the same technique on Chris' advice.

Chris - Will the Opti-Coat also work on the fiberglass (gelcoat) panels as well as the metal? If so, would Opti-Coat also be a good solution for gel-coat boats, or would you recommend something else?

Chris Thomas
09-22-2011, 12:31 PM
Bob - We have the same Rialta, will be trying the same technique on Chris' advice.

Chris - Will the Opti-Coat also work on the fiberglass (gelcoat) panels as well as the metal? If so, would Opti-Coat also be a good solution for gel-coat boats, or would you recommend something else?

I've used it on both fiberglass and gelcoat with good results, just be sure they are clean and oxidation free.

rkm
09-24-2011, 03:44 PM
Chris-
So despite the water beating the finish (considering the the gelcoat finished with Opticoat would be the sidewalls of the boat) -- the Opticoat can stand-up to all of this harsh treatment?

What sort of of longevity would you expect, considering the harsh composition of the water (heavy calcium, salt, etc) -- versus using it on a vehicle?

Chris Thomas
09-24-2011, 10:08 PM
CEE DOG put acid on it and it still beaded. Salt water isn't gonna hurt. I applied it on lake boats and after 2 years it's still fine.

BobP
09-27-2011, 10:16 AM
Chris-
Getting ready to order from your site.

To follow-up on your prep recommendation:


Because paint is thin and lots of swirls etc do you recommend polish or glaze?
Does Optimum have a recommended product that will work under Opti-Coat?
(I got confused with the numerous Polish II, Final Polish etc and thought I better not be too proud to ask.)

Can I clean/dewax with mineral spirits or Iso-alcohol or ?????
Anything else to minimize the swirling on thin white paint!!!!!!!
Thanks for your patience.

Bob P

BobP
09-27-2011, 10:38 AM
PS: I have a Cyclo dual action. So can do some conservative polishing.

Chris Thomas
09-27-2011, 01:32 PM
Chris-
Getting ready to order from your site.

To follow-up on your prep recommendation:


Because paint is thin and lots of swirls etc do you recommend polish or glaze?
Does Optimum have a recommended product that will work under Opti-Coat?
(I got confused with the numerous Polish II, Final Polish etc and thought I better not be too proud to ask.)
Can I clean/dewax with mineral spirits or Iso-alcohol or ?????
Anything else to minimize the swirling on thin white paint!!!!!!!

Thanks for your patience.

Bob P

1. It won't stick to product...only paint. So you need a surface free of polish, oils, glaze etc.
2. Yes, not the best choices, but the goal is "clean" so how you get there is up to you.
3.technique, technique, technique :xyxthumbs:

rkm
09-28-2011, 12:36 PM
What about acetone and a P1500-wet with the Dual Action application.

I was thinking along these lines for my application.