Taping prior to Wetsanding...how much is too much?

[deadchane]

I am about to wetsand a bumper that I sprayed 2 months ago with Glasurit Line-55 Black and 3 Coats of SPI Universal Clear, knocked down with 400 grit than flow coated with 1 more coat of 20% reduced clear.



I will be wetsanding with 1500/2000 Meg's Unigrit Paper followed by a 4000 Abralon Pad with a soft interface pad on a DA.



My question is, how far should I go when it comes to taping edges and other various nooks in the bumper that I know I will not be able to get to with the buffer? From what I understand, some people sand there edges/corners and actually buff them. But for a novice like myself, I am fearful of doing this.



Another issue with taping the edges is the hard line I am going to create. Once that tape is removed I am going to have a hard edge.



Any professional painters/wetsanders out there that can recommend what approach to take when it comes to wetsanding parts like this bumper.



My two worries are: Sanding thru the clear on an edge AND sanding a piece of the bumper where I will not be able to reach with the buffer (Makita 9227C w/ Edge wool/foam pads.)

 

[David Fermani]

Did you have good coverage/overlap on the edges with your clear? If so, why would you worry? Only sand areas where you'll be able to get your buffer in. Otherwise, you'll be forced to do things by hand or with a tiny buffer. Most people tape edges when they aren't sure how thin the paint is, but if you painted the cover yourself, try to reflect back.



Also, check out the 3M new Trizact line. It's very user friendly and could help you get the finish your after easier. The recommend their 1500 to be used dry and their 3000 wet. If you contact your local 3M Sales Rep, I'll be he'd give a bunch of free samples.