Swirl Mark Removal - The Definitive Thread

[Langers]

I know this topic has been covered many many times in the past, but thorough searching of the archives has still failed to net a conclusive method, product etc.

My car is a 2 yr old Citroen Xsara, Mauritius Blue paintwork, non metallic.

There are many fine / small swirl marks on the bodywork. I have been using Meguiar's Clear coat prep and swirl remover, but it does not seem to work very well. Does the coat of wax need to be removed for this product to work its best?

As I am living in Australia, many of the products you recommend may not be available so:

a) what are your top 5 products, including application methods and results
b) in general, do swirl removers that fill the paint or ones that level the clear coat to the depth of the scratch mor effective?
c) do you have any advice for ensuring these marks do not reappear in the near future.

Hopefully this thread will turn out to be the final, definitive one in the swirl remover chapter.

Thanks in advance for your help.

[Ron Ketcham]

We wrote a definitive two part technical article a couple of years ago for Professional Carwash and Detailing Magazine.

Unlike most enthusist magazine articles, this one does not name or promote any brand of product.

Rather it covers the paint systems used, referrs to research that has been done, what causes the concerns ,etc.

It may be your start point.

The articles are on www.autoint.com under the Magazine Articles Section

If you have never visited the site, you may also wish to look in on the Tech Tips Section as there are several more informative pictures and accompanying text which shows how a vehicle is painted at the factory, what a modern paint system looks like from the side when magnified 5000X, various paint concerns and issues, etc.

Ketch

[Michael H]

Langer

Also look here:

http://www.autopia-carcare.com/autopia/remswirmar.html

And several of the producsta re available in Australia. have look at: www.waxwizard.com.au

[Michael H]

Langer

Try the following to remove the swirls (all products available in Australia):

1. 3M Finesse It Machine Polish
2. Meguiars Prep and Swirl Remover
3. Decent polish, say Mothers Reflections or Klasse All in One
4. Finish with a wax of your choice.
5. Apply using a variable speed orbtial sander with a Meguiars W8006 Pad. I can tell you which model sander to use if required.