Wipedown (Scratch lie detector test) Process

[Accumulator]

Topdwnz- The APC/TAW should work fine.



Oh, and Welcome to Autopia!

[Topdwnz]

Thanks Accumulator!



It seems as though TOGWT was pretty specific about the products that would work. Clearly, I am very concerned about using a solution that could ruin my new car`s finish. Or, employ a process that does not accomplish anything and waste a bunch of time. The reality is, both P21S TAW and Adams APC are paint safe. So logic says, they might give me a similar result. Wanted to see what the experts out there had to say prior to giving it a try.

[Ben@3D]

It is not considered a ‘strong’ solvent although it will permeate clear coat paint and may stain or soften the paint it will not strip a cross-linked paint.

Interesting read as always TOGWT!



Any thoughts on using IPA to soften rock hard clear before polishing?

[togwt]

Interesting read as always TOGWT!



Any thoughts on using IPA to soften rock hard clear before polishing?

IPA is considered a `weak` solvent, however undiluted plus reactivity (heat) will increase its strength, however I would not recommend the use of ANY sovent to soften paint prior to polishing



The main risks associated with using solvents; relate to the effects of solvent on the organic binder system that holds the paint together. The more acute element of risk is that of expansion of the paint through sorption of solvent. The polymerised urethanes dried oil network may not be truly soluble, but the polymer network may expand by sorption of solvent or concentrated isopropyl alcohol molecules and sometimes silicone.



Depending on the degree of expansion, the paint will be more or less softened and its capacity to bind the pigment particles may be affected. In the swollen condition, there is a risk that pigment may be removed from the paint through the (kinetic energy (friction heat) of a foam pad and rotary action (twisting) causing the paint to tear.







An extract from http://www.autopia.org/forum/autopia...-swelling.html

[addysdaddy]

For me I`m going to stick to one of the "recommended" chemicals TOGWT outlined in his article. Especially if I switch and use the Optimum Power Wash as my go to APC-doesn`t get easier then that. Like Topdwnz said, the other paint safe APC`s would probably be fine but I like using something that has been tested and blessed rather then "should" work. But hey, I`m old school.

[Alfisti]

Do not use denatured alcohol as a substitute for Isopropyl alcohol (IPA)

Why do you say that? I`ve been guilt of it once....

[togwt]

I advise against its use as a `safe` due to the addatives sometimes used- the main additive has traditionally been 10% methanol, giving rise to the term Methylated spirit. Other typical additives include isopropyl alcohol, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), methyl isobutyl ketone, and denatonium