Expert: Gary - 11/1/2011

Question
Hi Gary,

I just finished painting my 1968 Camaro using a base/clear system. Everything looks pretty good with the exception of a few minor defects (on the hood) and some dirt specks (basically on every panel but not bad). My question is: What buffing / polishing system do you recommend that I use? BTW, my car is black.

Answer
Hi Al,

First you will want to wet sand the dirt nibs and defects by using 1500 grit wet sanding paper. I recommend wrapping your wet sand paper around a foam block to avoid cutting in finger marks. Once this step is completed, I recommend using the 3m Perfect-It Polishing System. It is basically a 3 step system. The first is a rubbing compound, the second is a glaze designed to remove swirl marks, and the third is a swirl eliminator. 3M recommends using their product coordinated pads for best results. Here are some product links that hopefully will help you out:

Sandpaper:    http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd_3m_imperial_wetordry_sheet_02023.cfm
Foam Block:   http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd_sanding.cfm
3M Compound:  http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd_3m_06085_perfect_it_rubbing_compound_quart.cfm
Compound Pad: http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd_3m_perfectit_iii.cfm
3M Polish:    http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd_perfectit_3000_swirl.cfm
Polish Pad:   http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd_3m_perfectit_plus_foam_polishing.cfm
Swirl Elim.:  http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd-3m_06068_ultrafinacfm.cfm
Elim. Pad:    http://www.repaintsupply.com/pd_3m_5733.cfm

If you follow these steps you vehicle will turn out excellent. If you have any other questions please feel free to ask.