Clear coat question

[lshanahan98]

Hello,

I have a 2003 4Runner (Imperial Jade Mica). About three weeks ago I used a rubbing compound (unaware of the clear coating) to remove some gum and a few bugs.
I noticed dull areas where I applied the rubbing compound.
I spoke with a guy at the Service Center at the dealership, he said to buy Meguire's clear coat polish. I couldn't find the polish so I bought the "Gold Class Clear Coat Car Wax". After applying one coat, it seemed to have done the job, they are hardly noticeable and I think another coat would do the trick.

I need to know:
1) Is this a temporary fix? After the wax is gone, will the dull spots reappear?
2) What products could I use to restore the clear coat permanently (if possible)?
3) What products are available like rubbing compound that won't remove the clear coat?
4) Any other advice, or something I may have missed?

(hanging my head in shame for my stupidity.) =(javascript:smilie('')

Thanks in advance,

Larry S.

 

[TSP-MIKE]

For the bugs you can use WD-40 and afterwards wash it and wax it! won't hurt the clear and no scratches!

Mike

 

[98 Joes]

Not that this will help much now, but always use the mildest formula first. I think the WD-40 suggestion is great. That stuff won't do any damage. If that doesn't work, try some carwash soap straight and a sponge.

I don't think you damaged anything though. The dull spots are probably gone forever. If not, use a swirl mark remover compound and it will look great.

 

[lshanahan98]

Thanks for the replies!! =)

 

[Woody]

Rubbing compound

1) Is this a temporary fix? After the wax is gone, will the dull spots reappear?
Depends if the paint was affected (meaning the clearcoat was penetrated). If it was, there's nothing you can do.

2) What products could I use to restore the clear coat permanently (if possible)?
The purpose of the clear coat is to protect the paint for the longest time frame possible. If this is what you want, look for acrylic-based paint protectants. Some wax-based or silicone-based protectants may offer better shine characteristics, but generally less durability than acrylic-based.

3) What products are available like rubbing compound that won't remove the clear coat?
WD-40 is a lubricant, meaning it's designed to adhere to the surface even when dry. I'm not sure this is what you want when applying a paint protectant, which should adhere to the paint, not the WD-40. However, long-term affects of WD-40 on paint is unknown. In general, milder to harsher formula is sound advice. Good detailing brands have progressive mild-to-harsher formulas (eg. kemopro.com).

4) Any other advice, or something I may have missed?
You probably already know, but keep up the good work on washing the car regularly. By minimizing time for contaminants to set on the paint, the easier it is for removal and therefore minimizing use of stronger cleaners.

* Woody

 

[waskillywabbit]

Hello,

I have a 2003 4Runner (Imperial Jade Mica). About three weeks ago I used a rubbing compound (unaware of the clear coating) to remove some gum and a few bugs.
I noticed dull areas where I applied the rubbing compound.
I spoke with a guy at the Service Center at the dealership, he said to buy Meguire's clear coat polish. I couldn't find the polish so I bought the "Gold Class Clear Coat Car Wax". After applying one coat, it seemed to have done the job, they are hardly noticeable and I think another coat would do the trick.

I need to know:
1) Is this a temporary fix? After the wax is gone, will the dull spots reappear?
2) What products could I use to restore the clear coat permanently (if possible)?
3) What products are available like rubbing compound that won't remove the clear coat?
4) Any other advice, or something I may have missed?

(hanging my head in shame for my stupidity.) =(javascript:smilie('')

Thanks in advance,

Larry S.

For a free detailer's handbook that will answer all your questions go here:

http://www.griotsgarage.com/support.jsp

and download the free PDF. If you have never tried Griot's products, you need to, they are the best you can get and will make your rig glow in the dark! Best handbook I've ever seen for keeping your rig purrrrfect!

Hope this helps!

:arrow:

Brian

 

[dcampen]

4Runner - all clearcoat.

I just saw someone over at yotatech say that the paint on white Sequoias and 4Runners is not a clearcoat? Is that correct? Are all the other (4Gen) colors clearcoats?