I need to freshen up my paint

[mommy2acurlyq]

I just got my new baby last Wednesday and her paint is less than glossy. What do I need to do to get her glossy again?

 

[MoHawk]

How much do you feel like spending?

The BEST was is Griot's Garage products. Clay bar and wax.

 

[mommy2acurlyq]

I'm really not sure. I just used stuff from Pep Boys on my other truck. What are the prices? I have no idea how to use clay? I need a lot of help!

 

[MoHawk]

Clay is rubbed against the paint after spraying a lubricant, normally a "qwik detailer" or the likes. California Clay Bar is one company. Griot's Garage makes the best stuff on the market.

Also, a good polishing can help. Griot's can help there too

 

[Static54]

Best way would be polish using grinder, polish compounds and different abrasive pads. Not sure where you're at in LA but I know a guy out of Brandon
, ms that does amazing work on high end cars.

 

[MoHawk]

Grinder? NO!

I think I know what you are trying to say, but you are setting her up for SEVERE failure!

 

[Static54]

That's why you let the pros do it.

 

[01yellerCobra]

I picked up a kit from The Chemical Guys that came with a Porter Cable polisher, pads, and Mequiars polish. The compounds were 105 and 205. I use the Mothers clay bar kit as well. I've had good results with these products. Most people can't believe the paint on my Cobra is 12 years old. I'm going to do the Expy as soon as the weather cooperates.

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[FordandPolaris]

Best way would be polish using grinder, polish compounds and different abrasive pads. Not sure where you're at in LA but I know a guy out of Brandon
, ms that does amazing work on high end cars.

I believe you meant buffer. Grinder would not be a good end result. And as far as abrasive pads, we're talking 1200 grit wet sand paper.

I second a good polishing. I picked up an electric buffer for 30 bucks at a local farm supply company. Makes it a little easier. Its a messy job, but worth the work.

 

[mommy2acurlyq]

Thank you.

 

[carlos08]

There are also Youtube videos about detailing if you need some professional tips.

 

[Static54]

Buffer is basically a grinder. To polish you need a variable speed grinder or buffer. Either way they are similar. Grinder doesn't mean it only grinds. Grinders can sand polish cut grind.

 

[mommy2acurlyq]

Thank you for all the responses! I am a complete beginner when it comes to using clay or any abrasives. I think I'm going to get a professional to do it and I'll just upkeep after that. I don't want to mess up.

 

[FordandPolaris]

Buffer is basically a grinder. To polish you need a variable speed grinder or buffer. Either way they are similar. Grinder doesn't mean it only grinds. Grinders can sand polish cut grind.

My buffer oscillates the head in rotating circles in addition to the normal rotation... My grinder does not. Also my buffer spins at about 100 rpms where my grinder spins at about 800-1000. A grinder might work, but it was not designed for that use.

If you are nervous about it, start with a polishing kit from an auto store. You are not going to hurt the paint by waxing it. After you see how it turns out you can decide if you want it done professionally.

EDIT: I found what Static was talking about, but I would still prefer the slow, two hand buffer over the high speed ones.

 

[Static54]

Don't need an oscillating head to polish. Read my post. I said a VARIABLE speed grinder. Google it. Ill fine you some literature cuz your buffer is good for a wax job. Polish is way different than what you'd use your buffer for.

 

[MoHawk]

Static is still fighting to prove he was right. LOL

 

[Static54]

Car Detailing - How to polish your paint to a high gloss finish

Ya it's not for a novice. Like I said to the OP there a guy in Brandon, MI I know that does house calls. He does amazing work and can do what I'm referring to. He does everything from Porsche Ferrari to daily drivers.

 

[MoHawk]

You are referring her to someone in a different state? I am going to assume you mean MS, because that's at least next door. You wrote Michigan though... Even still, why would you send someone out of state?! Unless you buddy travels that far for work....

 

[Static54]

Ya mean ms. Mi is my home state habit. If she/he is on east side of LA it's only an hour to Brandon ms area. So ya I'm referring her to someone in another state and ya he comes to you. He's gone lots farther that that. You can either pay someone to do a service like that or get a new paint job. Spend your money however you want. Just trying to help. He's not a personal friend. Met him on my truck forum and follow him on facebook where he posts his work.

 

[Static54]

I'm not fighting to prove nothing. Trying to help. Wth is everyone's deal. Use the google button if you wanna learn yourself. This is why I don't be more active on forums like these cuz everyone wants to be a know it all. Do what you want. Throw a coat of wax on it and call it good. Get a new paint job. I don't care. I didn't know much about polishing either but I've seen the differences and it's night and day.