scratches on Stage 1 paint

[Blackmirror]

I have an 87 Grand National that still has the original stage one paint lacquer with no clear coat. What product is worth using that can remove these hairline scratches? I'm looking for a good product that is sold in stores. Thanks for any suggestions.

[JasonC8301]

How severe are these hairline scratches?

Well locally, try NAPA or Pep Boys and look for 3M Swirl Mark Remover for dark colored cars (PN# 39009) and 3M Perfect It II Fine Cut Rubbing Compound (PN# 39002)

www.properautocare.com sells these two products if you can't find them locally and 3M is also running a special with free shipping ( www.3m.com ).

Also read the detailing tips and FAQ at www.autopia-carcare.com , previous posts, browse the archives.

After you have preped the finish, seal in the work you just did with a quality sealant.

Jason

[Blackmirror]

These are just hairline scratches that criss cross each other. No deep scratches

[Ron Ketcham]

The vehicle has the old "dispersion Lacquer" on it. This was used extensivly by GM during that time period.

This was very prone to thermal stressing.

In other words, the paint film developed small cracks due to the temperature changes the vehicle has experienced during it's life.

Before you spend a lot of time and money attempting to remove a condition that can not be corrected by cutting and polishing, suggest you obtain one of the 30X lighted magnifiers and inspect the paint film in order to ascertain if the condition is thermal stressing.

May save you a lot of time and money.

[joed1228]

I would use 3m Swirl Mark Remover part number 39009, it's a really mild product and if it's safe for your paint.

As always, do a small part and see if the results are what you expected and go from there.

[joed1228]

whoa! Throw what I said out the window.

[JasonC8301]

Flush what I said down the toilet!

[Blackmirror]

yes unfortunately, this type or paint is subject to thermal stress. There are a lot of small cracks on my hood due to the weather and the heat that the turbocharged engine makes. I can live with the cracks. Its just the scratches and swirl marks I want to get rid of.

[Blackmirror]

Will those Klasse products remove the hairline scratches and swirl marks?

[JasonC8301]

but I have noticed swirl marks diminish after several coats of Klasse SG. It is best to get the paint as perfect as possible before using a sealant or wax.

[darbh]

I suggest the standard routines discussed in prior threads for removing scratches and swirl marks. As to any thermal stress cracks, I wonder if the Z5 would help. Anyone have any experience?