The key to restoring faded plastic trim is in the prep work. Using a trim dressing like
Adam's VRT to mask the fading and bring back some darkness gives good results, but if you want it to last longer and look even better, you really need to scrub off the oxidation, dirt, previous dressing, and any products that contain wax like quick detailers or spray-on wax type products.
To get the best results, first do a deep cleaning on the plastic trim with
All Purpose Cleaner, scrubbing with a microfiber towel. Rinse well and then dry really good before dressing the trim. Dressing trim that is still a little wet does not allow it to soak into the plastic to really restore and make it last longer.
I like to make the trim scrub part of the wash routine by first washing the truck, then scrubbing the trim, then a final rinse and dry. Just make sure not to let the
All Purpose Cleaner dry on the paint, as it is a strong cleaner.
Having the trim scrubbed clean allows the VRT to soak in more, and then last longer. Allow the VRT to soaki n and dry on the trim, then go back over it with a dry microfiber towel to buff off any excess. This last step helps prevent streaking of dressing onto the paint during or after rain.
Check out this kit that has both products:
Adam's Tire & Trim Combo
Thanks for the mention and link!
I use
H2O Guard & Gloss on the running boards to provide protection against fading and to make them easier to clean. This product will darken them a little, as it will with plastic trim, but it does not completely restore ones that are really faded. The key here is to provide protection, so they don't get faded.
Same is true for the plastic trim; seal and protect it so it does not get faded.
Check out this post:
H2O Guard & Gloss on a Raptor
Thanks @
2014RubyRed!
That's really true. There are lots of guys using different brands, and some of the detailing products are great, some are decent and some are more budget level brands. But how many of these other brands put guys on these forums to answer questions and provide support for the products? Not many. In fact, that's why I am sitting here typing this now, because when I ordered a new Raptor and decided that I wanted to take better care of it, I researched the different pro-level brands and decided to go with Adam's Polishes because they provide the customer care and support, and their line of products was streamlined and the results were amazing. I liked them so much, that I started running this Adam's account on FRF to help out my Raptor brothers and sisters!
-Dan
