CLR For Water Spot Removal ?

[Arthur Goodman]

I have been washing a car for this guy for a couple of weeks now who had moderately bad water spots on his Dodge Ram, and I hadnt gotten around to `Dealing` with the problem yet, SO...When I showed up yesterday to wash his car as scheduled, the water spots were gone, and he said he used CLR (Calcium / Lime / Rust remover from Home Depot ?) on it.



I would think that this would damage the paint, but it `Looked` just fine. (to me at least) I talked him into letting me put a coat of wax over it, because I am sure he removed whatever was on there with the CLR.



My question....Can you (is it safe) actually use CLR on a vehicle for this purpose ? I have ran into others that say they have with no problem, but have never even seen it discussed on this Forum. (or any other `Detailer` Forum I can think of)



Thanks.



Chris Mc 3

[BradE]

Try white vinegar on your water spots. The acids in the vinegar will help loosen the minerals in the spots. I don`t think I would put CLR on the paint. My guess is that is pretty strong stuff, and might cause damage.

[mx5]

Someone I know used CLR on a semigloss painted wall to remove some grease and it removed the paint instantly. I know latex and auto paints are two different worlds and not a good analogy but I would not use it. It is probably removing your clearcoat.

[neileastmeadow]

i used the CLR on my water spots ...never took them out but boy dont get it on your paint .. i would say your friend is very lucky and i would put some wax over it.



neil