Durability Products for Ford Raptor

[debordj]

Hello, an incredible forum you all have. I have learned so much here and am so thankful for the great information.

I have a few questions. Ordered a Black Ford Raptor through the military buying program and it should be here in 3 weeks. I live in San Diego and can't fit it into the garage so it will sit outside. It is also my daily driver, but I want to take it out to the desert and use it as intended.

My concern is - desert pinstripes - branch scrapes on truck. Hopefully not deep but easy to buff out as I drive through the desert.

Looking for the best products and after reviewing, here is what I have come up with. Looking for you expert guidance on if this is a good regimen.

Buffer - Griots 6" buffer...going to get 5.5" backing to go with it.

Clay - Mothers Clay Kit

Glaze - 3M HandPolish Glaze

Sealant - Going with Blackfire Wet Diamond after tough decision making process. Looking for input.

Wax on Top - Collinite 915

Looking for:

- easy to use products
- durability is most important over shine
- something that will protect the paint from sage brush scratches as I drive in desert.
- Daily driver
- no garage.

What are you expert thoughts on my plan of attack?

Thanks in advance.

[longdx]

So far your product list is fine. I do agree on using glaze if you plan on going into the desert often. I would recommend a proper detail (clay/polish/LSP) once a year but not to overdue it.

[FishyX]

That truck is to pertty to take off-road!!!!

[debordj]

FishyX - concur it is purdy but that girl needs to dance in the desert every now and then.

Any other thoughts from experts on what products are best for my situation?

[BuckeyeR/T]

IMHO I don't think you need the sealant if you go with the 915. It lasts a very long time and looks great.

[FishyX]

Seems like one of the Nano coatings might work well to guard against scratches.

[vet]

Welcome, and thanks for your service.

And get a bigger garage! lol

[truckbutt]

Blackfire is good stuff. I have at least a gallon of BFWD in my stock. I have shifted however to Duragloss products. They are cheaper and extremely durable. Since it is new you shouldn't need any abrasives. I would suggest:
1. DG #105/#601 two coats.
2. Collinite #845
That will give you 6 months of shine and protection.
I don't see the point of adding a glaze to a new truck.
This is two coats of DG 105 over corrected and jeweled paint:
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1517/IMG_0152thb.JPG

[debordj]

Truck - that looks awesome. Gonna look into the DuraGloss.

[truckbutt]

Truck - that looks awesome. Gonna look into the DuraGloss.
Good luck with the truck. Post some pictures when you get it. Raptors are great looking trucks.

[debordj]

So, here it is. Got my truck last week and thanks to everyone's help I got her bullet proof and shining.

Washed with Griots Car Wash.

Clayed with Mother's Clay Kit

Then put 2 coats of 105/601.

Topped with Collonite 915.

It looks awesome...combination really makes the Tuxedo Black Metal Flake pop! Hope you guys like it.


http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj40/heatshea/Truck/129_zps41214f45.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj40/heatshea/Truck/130_zpsf31b31ae.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj40/heatshea/Truck/131_zps04a7bb7e.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj40/heatshea/Truck/132_zpsd33995b6.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj40/heatshea/Truck/133-Copy_zps63561291.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj40/heatshea/Truck/134_zpsd54f121c.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj40/heatshea/Truck/135_zpse5102f2b.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj40/heatshea/Truck/136_zps7a79cf6d.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj40/heatshea/Truck/137_zpse4438892.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj40/heatshea/Truck/138_zpsc86523b6.jpg

[Mazda.Mark]

Awesome truck! I would definitely look into a bug shield or clear bra for that monster!

[vet]

Looks great!

My truck was supposed to be that color, but d*** tidal wave in Japan prevented it, so got plain black. GRRR, lol

[Mazda.Mark]

Did you put trim protectant on?

[debordj]

I put some Meguiars protectant on the trim but it didn't look so good. Anyone recommend a good outside trim protectant that won't streak or run?