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Thread: Removing Scratches

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    Nicky Extreme
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    Removing Scratches

    I would post a pic but I cant get into my gallery. Anyways my father put a small 3" scratch in the side of my truck loading the bed. It is not deep but it is annoying. I tried using Z5 scratch and swirl remover but it seems to be to tough for that. Anything out there that will take this scratch out withou wrecking the paint?
    NHTOC #9

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    If it's just the clear coat and not through the paint you can have it buffed out. Over the counter "scratch removers" will just cover up the problem and not solve it.
    '03 H-D # 553

    NHTOC # 38

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    Can you feel the scratch with your finger nail?

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    Sometimes it is better to cover up the scratch , along with rounding it's edges so it is not so apparent. If you remove too much clearcoat, you will get clearcoat failure later on.

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    Nicky Extreme
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    I can not feel the scratch with my finger nail. Going to borrow a buffer and try to buff it out

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    Indestructible!
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    Okay, (flame suit on)
    I have never tried to "buff" a scratch out.
    What do you need to use? I have one of those Sears Buffers but what kind of soulution do you use?

    C'mon guys hook a brother up with some info:p

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    First, you need a variable speed orbital buffer. That Sears random polisher won't do much ( sorry bro ). Your best bet is a Porter Cable buffer with proper pads ( go to griots garage.com for better details ) and get a "fine" rubbing compound as a start. For deeper scratches you'll have to go with either a medium or heavy cut compound but unless you know what you're doing stay away from that stuff. Keep the buffer rpm's under 2000, make sure the panel you're working on stays cool and you'll be fine.

    I use a Milwaukee buffer with 3M hook-it foam pads with great results.

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    Rob, is this the right model?


    Click me

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    That's it. The only thing I don't like about it is that it starts @ 2,500 rpm. That's too high in my opinion. Saying that, you will just have to be extra careful picking the proper pads and polishes. Use 3M Machine Polish for minor scratches and imperfections and then try 3M swirl remover ( dark color ) to finish up. That swirl remover with a foam pad and a black truck = Then use Zaino or whatever to seal it.

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    Can you give us detailing idiots a list of the proper pads and other items we will need.

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    Yes yes please. "Detailing for idiots" Section!!! :d

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    Here are the best pads to use. If your finish is in good shape, you only need the White, and Grey pads.

    I don't use a machine when layering though. A regular yellow foam applicator works fine for extra layers of SG, for instance.

    I don't think you can do damage to your finish when using a PC unless you are very careless.

    http://www.properautocare.com/porcabac.html

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    I would recommend taking your truck to a auto shop. I wouldn't risk messing up with my truck with something I am not experienced at. So just pay up a few bucks and get it done professionally. Just my 2cents


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