In this project
What we ceramic coated on this F-350
- Paint
- Wheels
- Exterior glass
- Exterior trim
- Steps
- Mud flaps
- Brand-new bed cover
From Waterloo, Illinois to our Arnold coating shop
A new Super Duty is a substantial vehicle to look after. On this gray F-350, the owners wanted to start with a carefully prepared finish and a ceramic coating plan that went beyond the main body panels.
They made the trip from Waterloo, IL to our Arnold, MO shop for the installation. From the hood and cab to the long bedsides, wide rear fenders and exterior trim, this dually gave us plenty of surface to prepare. We also included the new bed cover in the coating work.

Our preparation: wash, chemical decontamination, clay and a light polish
We began with a full wash to clean the truck before the more detailed preparation. Washing is the starting point; the finish also needs attention to contamination that can remain bonded to the surface.
Next came chemical decontamination, followed by clay-bar treatment to remove embedded contaminants. This step-by-step cleaning prepared the surface for polishing and coating, even though the truck was brand new.
We then performed a light polish to refine the finish before coating. The polishing stage helped bring out the gray paint's gloss and clarity. We assess each vehicle's condition when planning its preparation, including new trucks.
That full wash, chemical decontamination, clay treatment and light polish gave us a clean, refined finish for the coating installation. The finished truck's reflections show how the preparation and coating work came together.
Coating the details: wheels, glass, trim and the new bed cover
The paint received plenty of attention, but this installation also included the wheels, exterior glass and trim. We extended the coating work to the truck's steps and mud flaps, along with its brand-new bed cover.
Those details are easy to overlook when looking only at a hood reflection. A large pickup has many different exterior surfaces, so we discussed and completed the full scope for this F-350. The bed cover was part of this customer's project, alongside the painted panels and exterior details.
Our regular ceramic coating packages include paint, wheel faces, glass and exterior trim. When you request a truck coating quote, tell us about accessories such as a bed cover, steps or aftermarket wheels so we can confirm their condition and the additional work you want included.


Why System X Max G+ fit this project
The owners' priority was long-term care for their new truck, and System X Max G+ was the coating selected for this project. System X describes Max G+ as a professional coating focused on gloss, gloss retention and surface slickness.
For a vehicle this size, appearance and upkeep go together. Our goal was to give the owners a well-prepared, coated exterior they could enjoy looking after over the years ahead. Product choice, preparation and ongoing care all belong in that conversation.
Regular washing and appropriate maintenance help keep the coated truck looking its best. We help owners understand their aftercare so they can look after the finish once it is back home.

Planning truck ceramic coating near Waterloo, IL or Arnold, MO
Looking for ceramic coating near Waterloo, Illinois? We welcome Illinois drivers at our Arnold installation shop, including customers from Waterloo and Columbia. We also serve Imperial, Barnhart and the wider Jefferson County area.
All installations take place at STL Auto Defenders, 4042B Jeffco Blvd, Arnold, MO 63010. Enter from Jeffco Blvd and follow the driveway around to the back parking lot. Contact us before traveling so we can confirm the quote, preparation, drop-off and pickup arrangements.
Send your truck's year, make and model, your town or ZIP code, current paint photos and any accessories you want considered. Whether you have a Ford Super Duty, another heavy-duty pickup or a daily driver, we can discuss a ceramic coating plan around the actual vehicle and your priorities.

