Scratches, how do you remove?

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Nov 17, 2005 | 03:29 PM

#21

DavesZ#3

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From: Louisiana

Quote:

Originally Posted by chimmike

you guys recommend using the 3M rubbing compound or do you think it's too harsh?

I used some on an older black car I had, that was totally oxidized, and it brought it back to almost a new brilliant shine........I just don't want to use something too harsh on this paint but I think the rubbing compound will get rid of the swirl marks instead of me having to use the buffer. I'd of course follow up with a hand app of the 3M SMR, and Z5 followed by Z wax.

Yes, the general answer to that question is Rubbing Compound is way too harsh. Compounds typically are for removing serious defects and they are guaranteed to leave swirls and fine scratches. To remove fine scratches or swirls, start with the SMR. If you still have some deeper scratches or other paint defects, you can work those areas with a fine or medium compound then follow up again with the SMR.

Don't bother with the hand app of SMR, if you don't work it out properly you will leave behind scratch marks. Use a Porter-Cable Random Orbital Buffer/Sander 7336 or 7224. The whole car is way too much to do by hand!

Nov 18, 2005 | 05:00 AM

#22

chimmike

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From: Bradenton/Sarasota

I got a 7336, but I'm REALLY nervous about doing the SMR. I've got the white pad so maybe I'll just use the white pad with the SMR tomorrow....then do the polish with a white pad, and then follow up with wax.

I'm more nervous about using the buffer than anything else. I don't want to royally screw anything up.......but then again the SMR and white pad isn't that aggressive, and I won't go any higher than 4 on the speed......

Nov 18, 2005 | 06:16 AM

#23

jdg345

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From: South Florida

Is there any information on how these compounds really work? I can't find the 3M SMR anywhere that I've looked but this is apparently a multi-product approach (ie: apply this, then that, then this, and finally that) ... any links would be appreciated.

Thank you.

Dec 5, 2005 | 03:06 PM

#24

MHFontaine

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Joined: Nov 2005

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From: Buford, GA

Quote:

Originally Posted by EOD Diver

take it back to the dealer, I too found a couple of chips out of the paint work had them completely repainted and not by a diy paint kit.

Picked up my car last Tuesday 11/29/05 - 2005 Super Black Roadster...noticed paint defects on the trunk, toneau (sp) cover, drivers door, and hood when I got it home and cleaned up. My dealer is doing me right...the car is in the shop now for complete repainting. In the meantime, I'm driving a brand new 2006 Altama...take it back to the dealer !!!