My boat has what is probably considered medium oxidation. The deck stripe is pink instead of red. I'm thinking of wet-sanding, then 3M super duty, then 3M Finesse-It, then Waxing Frenzy.

What grit of paper should I start with?
One wet-sanding or two (different grits) before the heavy duty compound?

Thanks!

Assuming it's gel. I'd go 600, 1000, maybe even 1500 then buff. You probably won't need the heavy duty and can go right to finess.

I'd rather sand. Some guys like to buff. If your more of a buff guy you can go 600 then superduty and buff till the cows come home.

I find that the chemicals in the compound tends to polish (hide) the oxidization. If you don't cut it away by sanding it will look great for a very short time.

I hope that makes sence.

I always like to gauge buff jobs like this....I always try 1500/2000 grit first.....I always try the milder compound first.....If 1500 grit takes out the wax build up and oxidation suffeciently...then why go to the trouble of starting with more agressive paper first....that just means more sanding and buffing to rid yourself of the deeper scratches....Start out light ...you can always go to the more agressive stuff if it wont handle it........I have used 1500 and perfect it on lots of gelcoat jobs...that came out beautiful
Not to mention ...you really can never be sure how thick the gel is on any particular job...