Dear Dave,
What is the best way to get oxidation out of my RV’s fiberglass from sun damage? I see so many different products and tools for the job on the internet. I was hoping to do it without very expensive tools or specialty compounds that are hard to find. Or am I better off having it done professionally? —Joel, 2015 Winnebago Minnie Winnie, champagne color
Dear Joel,
Most likely your Minnie Winnie has a Filon fiberglass outer skin. The oxidation is typically a fogging or discoloration of the gel coat, which is the clear outer layer. The thicker the gel coat, the higher “shine” or automotive finish that everyone wants. However, it is prone to oxidation if not protected with some type of ultraviolet (UV) product.
Crane Composites, the company that makes Filon, recommends washing the sidewall first and then using Meguiar’s #M49 Heavy Duty Oxidation Remover. This can be done with a hand towel; however, it is best with a mechanical buffer and soft pad. This will get down to the clear layer of gel coat, which will then need to be cleaned again and apply Meguiar’s #M56 Marine and RV Pure Wax.
Many products for oxidation removal
As you stated, there are many products on the market that claim to be oxidation removal products, so it is hard to tell. Typically, it depends on the severity of the fading. I have used Bar Keepers Friend in the liquid form with a buffer on a 2000 Winnebago Adventurer, and it did a fair job. This unit came from CA and was in very bad shape, but we buffed it out and then used 303 Protectant. We let that sit for a few weeks, then applied Meguiar’s wax. It was better than the original fading; however, it had gone way too far to bring it back to factory original.
I have talked with several owners who have used Poli Glow and love it.
If you do an internet search, there are dozens of products that claim to work. However, I think the key is to buff the faded layer of the gel coat. Most of the products that seem to work are a light polishing compound that lightly sands the faded material.
I like the Meguiar’s product, and it won’t cost an arm and leg.
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I can’t speak for any specific unit, but know that some RV manufacturers deliberately want a dull shine on their fiberglass walls. It isn’t necessarily oxidation at fault. High gloss will show minor defects much more than a duller finish.
Thank you for the recommendations, Dave! Seems a lot of work, but so would keeping the original shine have been. Have a great day and safe travels!