BF22Grady, I have been using many different products and finally determined those that worked best for the boat are from Majestic Solutions which is actually local here in Raleigh, NC, but I still do the mail order most of the time.
Step 1: For heavy cut: Vibracut 1000. What I like about this is how it does not clog up easily and by the time you work an area, it is mostly gone and ready to re-apply for next area. Very little left on the boat or pad if done right.
Step 2: CP2 which is Cut/Polish. This one will remove the fine scratches left from the heavy cut and increase the gloss, ready for applying a polish. They have a CP3 which is a 3in1 that includes cut/polish/protect. The protect has a synthetic acrylic polish. I think it does a good job, but found that the Pro Polish in next step seems to last longer.
Step 3: Shurehold Pro Polish. Being a polymer, it is not affected by the heat and does not break down as quickly as the carnuba's. It is very easy to use. I think it is in the same class of protection and ease of use as Nu Finish. Wipe on and Wipe off with no greasy residue.
Step 4: I was using the Ceramic Spray called Shock IT. It was great. They just came out with the new Graphene spray called SHIELD which is supposed to be superior to the Ceramic spray. I have to say so far, it is a bit easier to use (as if can get any easier with either) in that when applying with a microfiber towel, just wipe on and with another clean dry towel, wipe off/polish off. You will feel a great difference when applying this stuff. The rag will start to slide so easily and the hydrophobic is crazy.
I try to do a quick detail with the Graphene spray each time I get back from a trip, but don't always have the time or weather cooperating, but it will help for sure to keep me from having to go back to the heavy cut. Great products so far that made it much easier for me to tackle this job as I am getting older and finding it more difficult to wrestle with products that are hard to use and waste my time.
Other points here I have found to make it easier and better are the double sided 3M pads for the polisher. Those are amazing over those single one's that are thinner. Worth the price on those. Also, I used the harbor freight polishers for a few years. They do work, but was having a hard time with them managing the speed control when going slow with the heavy cut. I stepped up to the Dewalt Polisher and again, wow, what a difference. Speed control and torque is amazing! Again, worth the cost.
I don't have any affiliation with any of the products here. This is just my experience so far and what I found works for me. The Majestic products are very reasonably priced as well. First time I went to their store, they bent over backwards to help me out and offer advice. They support the automotive type shops around and give classes and train folks how to do the work, so they are very professional.
I have also tried their cleaners and found nothing to compare. Tidal Wave, cleans anything and is super concentrated. Enzyme Cleaner works great on the interior carpet and other like surfaces. I have removed stains and heavy dirt with both, even had to use the Tidal Wave to clean all the cigarette smoke residue from my mother in laws house when putting up for sale as she had to go into a home. I sprayed the refrigerator with a Tidal Wave solution and you should have seen the stuff just melt off the surface.
I had another company I dealt with many years ago when I used to paint industrial equipment and cars including refurbing them. There are some hidden companies around that have some superior products. Just hard to find them as they don't advertise like 409 or Windex, etc. I guess they tailor more to the professionals than the retail crowds.
Ok, that is my .02 for the day!
