Cleaning and Polishing a Horse Trailer: Step-by-Step Guide

A horse trailer has to withstand a lot of wear and tear from the weather. Over time, the shine of the polyester surface may begin to fade. Fortunately, this can be easily restored with the right approach! In this article, we explain step by step how to refurbish your weathered horse trailer. You’ll discover which products you need and how to properly polish and protect the trailer.

What do you need?

For the best results, we recommend the following products:

• Cleaning: Farécla G3 Pro Shampoo
• Polishing: Farécla Profile polishing compounds (200 Select, 350 Premium Liquid, 400 Advanced Plus, 700 Finish)
• Polishers: rotary or dual-action polishing machine
• Pads: various polishing pads for applying the compounds
• Protection: Farécla Profile UV Wax or Polymer UV Wax
• Maintenance: Farécla G3 Pro Snow Foam, Car Shampoo and Clean & Protect Spray

Step 1. Cleaning the surface

Before you start polishing, thorough cleaning is essential. Use a shampoo without wax, such as Farécla G3 Pro Shampoo or Riwax RS Boat Clean, to remove dirt and grease.

How to do this:

1. Rinse the trailer with water.
2. Apply the shampoo and wash with a soft sponge. 
3. Rinse again and allow the trailer to dry completely.

Step 2. Assessing the condition of the trailer

Once the trailer is clean, you can better determine whether you can start polishing immediately or whether sanding/matting is required first.

When should you matt/sand?

• For heavily weathered or dull surfaces.
• If there are scratches or repaired areas.
• If old stickers have left an imprint.

Step 3. Polishing for a high-gloss finish

Polishing will restore the trailer’s gloss. Use the correct polishing compound and pad for best results.

Polishing guide:

1. For heavily weathered surfaces: start with Farécla Profile 200 Select (very coarse) and finish with 400 Advanced Plus.
2. For weathered gelcoat: use Farécla Profile 350 Premium Liquid.
3. For lightly weathered areas: use Farécla Profile 400 Advanced Plus.
4. For ultimate shine: finish with Farécla Profile 700 Finish.

Use a rotary or dual-action polishing machine for an even result. Work in small sections and wipe away excess compound with a microfibre cloth.

Step 4. Protecting with wax

To maintain the shine, a protective layer is essential. Apply a wax layer by hand or with a machine:

Hand application

1. Ensure the surface is dry and cool. 
2. Apply a small amount of Farécla Profile UV Wax.
3. Rub in using circular motions and allow it to dry to a haze.
4. Buff with a clean cloth.

Machine application

1. Use Profile Polymer UV Wax.
2. Work with a soft applicator at low speed.
3. Spread evenly and then buff the surface.

Step 5. Maintenance for lasting shine

To keep the trailer clean throughout the year:

• Pre-wash for heavy contamination: use Farécla G3 Pro Snow Foam.
• Regular cleaning: wash with Farécla G3 Pro car shampoo.
• Quick refresh: use Clean & Protect Spray for light contamination.

More information about polishing?

With this step-by-step guide, your horse trailer will look like new again and remain protected for longer. Do you have questions about polishing? Contact us via support@polyestershoppen.com or WhatsApp.