Just so I understand it correctly, you use a Scotch pad (same one you would use in the kitchen)? do you just use it dry then apply the serum to the pad, then rub it in until it turns black, then hose off? I bought the serum that I plan on using on the trailer....I don't expect any miracles, but just want to make sure I am doing it correctly so that I am getting the most out of the time that I put in. Do you do the whole trailer then rinse (meaning you leave the black residiue on there for some time) or do you do a section at a time?

I do a section at a time..aluminum oxidation is extremely messy..The reason for doing it this way is so that you dont have to go through 30-50 towels, they gum up quickly. Heres how I did mine. grab a scotch pad, put some Leverage serum on there and rub away, use a little water to stretch product out as well as rinse the black oxidation off. You will have to do it a few times, then wipe with clean towels. Its quicker this way. If you want then follow directions on the bottle for the final results..if you have a buffer that helps as well..Good Luck..call me if you have any questions. Jeff

I know everyone wants a shiny trailer but you are taking off the aluminum oxide. The oxide will form again and in fact it is the oxide that protects the aluminum from further oxidation. I would leave it alone or paint it.

One thing that helps keep it shiny is to coat it with Leverage sealant.

Thanks RV, I forgot to mention that...Ya, I just pour it on there by the gallons guys...Just kidding..spray on towel and do like you do on the boat.

does it turn white in the grain?

Sam has been applying with towel, which turns grey, then he brillo pads the remaining product while using water. It's a half way of doing it but it looks much better and takes have the time. No buffer..no acid, completely safe. He has been working on the boat all day.. trailer, boat and cabin looks awesome. Check the shine on the hullsides...Jeff

Strip,
No the sealant doesn't turn white in the grain. As Jeff mentioned, spray on rag and wipe on trailer. I do not rub to much with the rag. If you rub alot it will start to turn grey/polish. Just put enough on, let it dry and buff it off. Looks good, still has the satin look of the brushed metal and it protects it from water spots. However, I do wipe the trailer down when I can after pulling from the water.

I have tried other products, including 3m liquid wax and they start to polish the trailer and will leave it looking like you did a half a** job.

On the prep side I use AlumBrite, it is an acid. You need to make sure you wet other areas down and rinse the treating surface good. However, it is less work and does a nice job of giving that new aluminum look. You have to remember this is brushed alum and will not shine like polished alum.

Rick