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Started By
Message
Auto trim restorer
Posted on 3/2/25 at 6:55 pm
Posted on 3/2/25 at 6:55 pm
I have an Explorer with gray trim that needs to be restored greatly. I have tried Turtle Wax restorer several times but shortly after applying it, the trim looks bad again. I even tried applying polishing rubbing compound and then applying a coat of the restorer but it didn’t improve. It has streaks and is discolored in some areas.
I am looking for suggestions for a product to do a better job. Thanks.
I am looking for suggestions for a product to do a better job. Thanks.
11
Posted on 3/2/25 at 6:56 pm to TigerKurt
quote:
Explorer
Sell, sell, sell
J/k
Armor all
Posted on 3/2/25 at 6:56 pm to TigerKurt
Cerakote trim restorer
Posted on 3/2/25 at 7:01 pm to RefinedEarl
Posted on 3/2/25 at 7:01 pm to RefinedEarl
Yep
Posted on 3/2/25 at 7:02 pm to TigerKurt
Is this to restore a daily driver for you to keep or to sell off?
If it's super faded either replace the parts with new if available or clean and recoat with SEM bumper coater (comes in rattle can).
Amazon link
Since you've already applied tons of likely silicone based products along the way you will need to prep the surface with something very aggressive like brake cleaner or xylene, alcohol won't cut it. This will be a fix that lasts for a few years depending on the wear and tear the part receives after coating.
If it is lightly faded some cleaners can help and ceramic coating products like cerakote trim restorer (lots of youtube vids out there on which are best).
If it's super faded either replace the parts with new if available or clean and recoat with SEM bumper coater (comes in rattle can).
Amazon link
Since you've already applied tons of likely silicone based products along the way you will need to prep the surface with something very aggressive like brake cleaner or xylene, alcohol won't cut it. This will be a fix that lasts for a few years depending on the wear and tear the part receives after coating.
If it is lightly faded some cleaners can help and ceramic coating products like cerakote trim restorer (lots of youtube vids out there on which are best).
Posted on 3/2/25 at 7:05 pm to AndyCBR
quote:
If it's super faded either replace the parts with new if available or clean and recoat with SEM bumper coater (comes in rattle can).
Amazon link
Since you've already applied tons of likely silicone based products along the way you will need to prep the surface with something very aggressive like brake cleaner or xylene, alcohol won't cut it. This will be a fix that lasts for a few years depending on the wear and tear the part receives after coating.
If it is lightly faded some cleaners can help and ceramic coating products like cerakote trim restorer (lots of youtube vids out there on which are best).
This guy has the proper response.
Posted on 3/2/25 at 7:25 pm to BuckyCheese
I am keeping the car.
My trim is gray - does that SEM bumper coater only come in black?
The Cerokote looks like it is only for black trim-correct?
Thanks
My trim is gray - does that SEM bumper coater only come in black?
The Cerokote looks like it is only for black trim-correct?
Thanks
This post was edited on 3/2/25 at 7:29 pm
Posted on 3/2/25 at 7:27 pm to AndyCBR
They have a trim coater as well.
Posted on 3/2/25 at 7:45 pm to TigerKurt
Cerakote is only one i used that would last a while
Posted on 3/2/25 at 7:51 pm to TigerKurt
For black trim the best I’ve used is solution finish. It lasts a full year even in FL.
If it’s grey I’d stick with cerakote.
If it’s grey I’d stick with cerakote.
Posted on 3/2/25 at 7:54 pm to TigerKurt
I use the Chemical Guys one and it seams to last longer than the turtle wax version.
Posted on 3/2/25 at 7:59 pm to TigerKurt
Posted on 3/2/25 at 9:44 pm to TigerKurt
I’ve seen them put a flame to old seats. Think that’d work?
Posted on 3/3/25 at 1:02 am to TigerKurt
Are you talking about painted surfaces or black plastic?
Posted on 3/3/25 at 1:49 am to TigerKurt
quote:
My trim is gray - does that SEM bumper coater only come in black?
SEM is the only long lasting product that comes in multiple colors that I am aware of.
Prep is absolutely crucial but this is true with most every paint/coatong process.
You can view colors on their website
Posted on 3/3/25 at 4:38 am to TigerKurt
Best thing for restoring headlights in my experience is AJAX. You can follow up with car polish, but a quick hit with AJAX, water and a rag will get all the brown off.
First time I ever did it was just for appearance. Then I jumped in that night, turned on my lights and thought “holy shite” I can see.
First time I ever did it was just for appearance. Then I jumped in that night, turned on my lights and thought “holy shite” I can see.
Posted on 3/3/25 at 6:00 am to AndyCBR
quote:
SEM bumper coater (comes in rattle can).
Awesome stuff.
Prep is key
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