3M Perfect-It II Light Rubbing Compound: Fine Cut... by hand...

[ExplorerXLT95]

Basically, I want to know all of what is involved in using "3M Perfect-It II Light Rubbing Compound: Fine Cut" by hand. I am using this product to remove some aggressive swirls. After I use it, I will be going over the area with "3M Swirl Mark Remover for Dark Colored Cars" to finish up any other swirls left over.



1) Assuming that Pinnacle Paintwork Cleansing Lotion is applied before the rubbing compound, what other prep is needed??

2) What type of applicator should I use to apply the compound?

3) How much pressure should be applied when using the product??

4) Will it buff out to a shine, or do I need to remove it with a towel, etc??

5) Basically, how do I use it, with what do I use it and what should I do before I use it???



Help me out guys...:nixweiss

 

[clint]

That fine compound from 3m is one of my favorite things! It really does work, which is not a trivial thing..



Do remember when you use it that it works because it is removing paint, so keep thinking that as you rub.



I use an all cotton rag remnant, like a part of a rag that has been washed so many times it's falling apart..probably any soft rag that is pure cotton should be fine.



With clean paint, and about a coin sized blob on the wadded up rag, grind it on in there, similar to applying wax, only in the smaller area of the swirl. Use some pressure, and check frequently to see if the swirl is gone. Occasionaly wipe the area and start over with more compound.



Opinions vary on wether to rub in a circle or in a line, just do whatever works..

Only compound until the swirl is gone- so as not to remove any more paint than needed..Be super careful on clear coat- some clear coats are really thin. That said, you really have to get into it for a while with that fine cut stuff to get through the paint, unlike the red stuff that will eat right through in no time.. Only use the red stuff on train cars.



The compound needs to be followed by a polish to get the shine back, be sure to wipe all the compound off before applying polish..



I used the fine compound, followed by normal cheap white polish, followed by 3m imperial hand glaze to really get all the polish back off, then wax..

and it looks perfect again on my black clear coat finish.



With anything that you rub the car with, be really sure there is no grit in the applicator- which is where most swirls come from anyway..



I'd like to add, that I had a much easier time using the rubbing compound by machine, rather than by hand. A simple wool puf thing that chucks into a drill works fine-costs about four dollars. just practice on a mailbox or something to get the hang of it.. THere is another thread around here on the subject of machine compounding..