Is it too late for my paint?

N

nejohnson

New member
I recently bought a car (for a really good price) , but the previous owner neglected a dragging brake caliper which left microscopic metal shavings embedded in the paint. The paint in the entire area surrounding the wheel is rough and a simple wash and wax doesn't seem to help. Is there any hope for this paint, or should I just accept the inevitable and start saving for a paint job?
 
Welcome to the forum.:welcome::dcrules
It sounds like you need a claybar to clean up your brake dust issue. They are available at many parts store or at places such as poorboysworld.com or autogeek.net.Then a good polish and wax. Do you have any pics. Please introduce yourself to the other members and tell us where you are from.
 
It's a bit more than just brake dust...its actually fine metal shavings from the rotor, not the pad. Would a claybar still be a good option for this?

On the profile note...I'm from Dublin, Oh and work in web development, married, 10 month old daughter.

The only picture of the car I have at the moment is one taken from the opposite side of the paint issue (I took a picture of the good side to make her look pretty.)

http://www.nejohnson.com/bird.jpg
 
Yes the clay will still work it may take several passes to rid the paint of the metal shavings. I know the idea seems strange but that little piece of clay is powerful. Then a good chemical polish like Poorboy's Professional Polish will clean up any rusty stains, etc. and get your paint ready for a wax or sealant.
 
I would think an acid treatment would be the way to go if it's that bad. I use Four Star ACC all the time for problems like this. Acid is damaging to some wheels and trim and I wouldn't get it on the windshield or rubber.

I know it sounds too scary to use but as long as you are careful it is a fairly simple fix. It just needs to dwell about 10-15 seconds and then get neutralized/washed with soap afterwards. Don't let it dwell too long or let it dry. Shouldn't even need to wipe the surface it will dissolve the metal shavings.
 
Ok I'll give the claybar a try. One question. Do I need to be concerned with the claybar picking up the metal and further scratching the paint with the particles?
 
Troy@DetailCity said:
I would think an acid treatment would be the way to go if it's that bad. I use Four Star ACC all the time for problems like this. Acid is damaging to some wheels and trim and I wouldn't get it on the windshield or rubber.

I know it sounds too scary to use but as long as you are careful it is a fairly simple fix. It just needs to dwell about 10-15 seconds and then get neutralized/washed with soap afterwards. Don't let it dwell too long or let it dry. Shouldn't even need to wipe the surface it will dissolve the metal shavings.
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I was going to say the same thing Troy...they are talking about metal shavings in the paint...clay will pickup the metal but then also scratch the paint..The Four Star is one and FK1 has a decontamination kit can do this as well...after that I would use clay and a paint cleaner
 
nejohnson said:
Ok I'll give the claybar a try. One question. Do I need to be concerned with the claybar picking up the metal and further scratching the paint with the particles?
Click to expand...
Yes, in a situation like this don't be afraid to change chunks of clay frequently. Watch it close and pay attention to the feel. You will be able to tell when you are dragging metal. As has been said, I would think it would be a good idea to use the clay after an acid application.
 
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