Steps for new repainted panels

[denetc]

I would like to know how to take care of a newly repainted (2 months ago) panels. It is a 96 Jimmy. The body shop told my husband he had to wait and let the paint cure for 3 mos. Is this right? How do you detail for the first time a repaint? Is it okay to clay and use 3 steps (like deep crystal system), can you use PC on it or do you have to go by hand?. We haven't done anything besides wash the truck, so far. thanks.

[Mike Pennington]

As far as waiting for a time period of 3 months, that is correct to some extent. What you need to do is wait 2-3 months before you apply any type of wax or sealant. If you did apply a wax or selant too early, you risk trapping solvents that need to escape in order for the paint to continue to cure. However, you can wash, clean or polish the paint immediately. In fact, most shops will have already sanded, applied a compound and a polish before delivering the vehicle back to you.

Now to move onto what to do next...

Yes you can apply clay, but I would first make sure you need to apply clay, because you might not need to. This can be done by washing and drying the vehicle then run the face of your hand across the surface. If it feels "rough", then you need clay, if it feels "smooth", then you can skip the clay step.

Next you can apply any other product, weather that is the DC line, GC line, or even the NXT Generation line....Just make sure to follow proper application procedures for each product. Hand or PC is up to you. Either will be just fine on new paint.

Bottom line, now is the time to really take care of the vehicle and keep a good coat of protection on there. This will keep it looking its best

Mike

[denetc]

thank you very much!