What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, the Aussie summer is absolutely brutal on trim. Between the 40 degree heat in the shade and that fine red dust that gets into everything, your plastics will turn grey faster than you can say 'no dramas'. This guide is a quick checklist to help you get that factory look back without wasting a whole Saturday. I've done this on enough old LandCruisers to know what actually works and what's just marketing fluff.
Summer Realities
The Right Gear (Don't Skimp Here)
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Before You Crack a Tinny
What You'll Need
The Game Plan
Deep Clean
Spray your cleaner onto the brush and scrub the plastic trim in circular motions. You'll be amazed at the brown muck (and red dust) that comes out.
Tape Up
Run masking tape along the paint edges next to the trim. I once stained the white paint on a HiLux with trim restorer, absolute nightmare to get off.
Decontaminate Chrome
For real metal, use the polish and a cloth. If it's got salt pitting, use the 0000 steel wool very gently with plenty of lubricant (even soapy water).
Strip the Surface
Wipe all plastic and chrome with your IPA mix. This removes any leftover soaps or waxes so your restorer actually sticks properly.
Apply Restorer
Put a few drops of restorer on your applicator. Work it into the plastic in small sections. Less is more here, don't go nuts.
Level it Out
After a minute or two, lightly buff the trim with a clean microfibre to ensure an even finish. This prevents that 'greasy' look I hate.
Cure Time
Let it sit. Most good coatings need at least 12 hours to cure before they get wet. Check the weather for storms!
Final Inspection
What You'll Need
A Few Hard Truths
Watch Out
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