Body - Minor Paint Finish Repair: Overview
97-028Applies To: ALL Models
March 31, 1997
Minor Paint Finish Repair
The first thing a new vehicle owner sees when he or she takes delivery of a new vehicle is the paint finish. Therefore, making the vehicle look good is very important. However, customer feedback has pointed out that many new vehicles are delivered with scratches and swirl marks. This is especially true with dark colored vehicles.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Repair the paint finish using the tools, supplies, and procedures recommended for the type of damage (scratches, swirl marks, etc.) and for the color of the paint
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
None: Information only.
RECOMMENDED TOOLS AND SUPPLIES
To repair the paint finish, you should use these tools and supplies:
Tools and Safety Equipment
- Mil gauge (film thickness gauge)
* Pro Gauge II, or equivalent
* ETG (Electronic Thickness Gauge), or equivalent These mil gauges are commercially available. They can be purchased from Pro Motorcar Products at 800-334-2843.
- Variable speed electric polisher
- Dual action orbital polisher (electric or pneumatic)
- Eye protection (face shield or safety goggles)
Supplies
- 9" Foam polishing pads (do not use wool type)
- Clean, 100% cotton terry cloth towels or soft flannel cloth
- Wet/dry sandpaper (1500 - 2000 grit)
- Soft sanding pad
- 50/50 Solution of isopropyl alcohol and water
While we cannot recommend one manufacturer over another, any of the manufacturers listed here can provide you with quality products through their nationwide distributor network. Contact them for your paint repair supply needs, choose one, and then use the system of only that one manufacturer. If you need to know how to use the products, ask the manufacturer for training.
3M Automotive Trades Division
22100 Telegraph Road P.O. Box 358
Southfield, MI 48037-0358
Phone Number: 800-521-8180 Ext. 6890
Meguiar's
17991 Mitchell South
Irvine, CA 92714
Phone Number: 800-347-5700
MOC Products
12306 Montague Street
Pacoima, CA 91331
Phone Number: 818-896-2258