2003 Ford F150 that's NEVER been waxed. Recommendations?

A co-worker of mine has a red 03 Ford F-150 with 50k miles on it that has never been waxed or polished. The paint is very oxidized, but otherwise in decent shape. How would you tackle this project? I'm new to detailing and don't know how I should approach this situation. Any recommendation are welcome.

 

First, welcome to DB.

Now, as to the F-150, what do you currently own that you could use to tackle this situation, or are you going to have to place an order to begin the project?

 

I currently only have basic maintenance products for my personal vehicles. Soaps, brushes, clay bars and wax. This will be the first car I polish. I will be picking up a few practice fenders and a hood from the local yard before I start on my co-works truck.

I will be placing an order as soon as I know what I will need and how I should use it. I'm in no rush. I'm pretty sure I'm going to start with a DA polisher, but outside of that I'm not sure. There are so many options when it comes to polishing, it can be overwhelming.

I'll wash, iron cut, and clay bar the truck. After that its up in the air.

 

Pick up the GG D/A along with Meguiars M105, Menzerna 203S and Menzerna 85RD Contact Phil and ask him if you can choose your pads. Go with 2 yellows (M105), 2 greens (203S) and 1 blue (85RD). This is a good starting point then you can evaluate the condition of the F-150 and determine if it does indeed need to be compounded or can just be polished.

http://www.detailingbliss.com/forum/detailers-domain/33352-pre-order-griots-6-inch-random.htm

 

Thanks Danny, the info is much appreciated. I'll be calling Philip soon.

 

If you're getting a DA I wouldn't do too much practice since that Ford is going to have a rather hard clear coat. If it were a Honda or something of that sort I'd be a little more hesitant, but with a DA you almost can't hurt the paint on that car.

Danny's recommendation is spot-on as well.

 

I worked on a somewhat similar vehicle last fall. Used the GG buffer along with Meg's microfiber system - 5 1/2" pads and M300 & 301 after claying the paint first. I was stunned at how well the results were.

 

I hope I have similar results! Thanks for the info guys.

 

No problem man you could also give the Meguiars Microfiber system a go once but remember you will need much more item than just the D/A some pads and polishes to get the job done. proper lighting, quality microfibers, implementing the 2BM, a quality mitt or sponge, soap, a sealant or carnauba, products for your wheels, clay, decontamination products, etc will all be needed to get the job done.