Expert: Gary - 8/25/2008

Question
what are the causes for the clear coat to fish eye with me even when the car has been wipe down

Answer
Hi Tim,

It could be several things that could cause fish eyes. I can quickly name a few:

1) Airborne contamination.  I have seen cologne that someone is wearing cause fish eye. Usually, WD-40 used in the same room or an adjacent room can be a major cause.
2) Oil from the air compressor. Many compressors will put out small amounts of oil when they are new. Once the piston rings or the cylinder get worn the compressor will put out more oil.
3) Not using a good quality grease and wax remover. All G&W removers are not the same quality.
4) Using a towel or rag that has been used before. Use a good quality lint free, disposable, quality, paper towel for wiping G&W remover.
5) Not using 2 towels when using G&W remover. Use one towel that is saturated with G&W remover and the second towel that is dry for picking up the G&W remover. This will stop cross contamination.
6) Painting too quickly over G&W remover can cause fish eye. Let it evaporate for at least 30 minutes.
7) Polymer Sealants. A polymer sealant applied 6 months ago will still be there and a standard G&W remover will not remove it. You must use a product call Polycracker. You can find Polycracker at this site: http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd_polycracker.cfm

This is just a few things that can cause fish eyes. Maybe something here will help you out. Good luck.