Can you help me get this out?

[mike_c70]

Hi guys,

First time poster and I really need your help already. Not sure where to place my question so I put it in the NXT forum.

I was driving down the freeway today in front of a SUV when suddenly the SUV swerved. I was like what the heck and next thing I see is a big plastic bumper stradled across my lane. I had no choice to run over it because there were cars on both sides of me. There is do body damage other than paint and the plastic trim that's messed up. The platic trim is scuffed and the paint is really dull. I don't think it went through the paint but it sure took a chunk out of the clearcoat. There was a thin sheet of plastic stuck to the body which I peeled off and got off also with some QD and MF towel but the pics is what was underneath it. What would I need to get back to new? Would a DAP be needed or can I do this by hand? ARGH!!! Only 800 miles! Thanks.

Regards,
Mike

[waxy]

It sounds like the damage is from 'residue' from the bumber? If so, that would be considered an 'above surface' problem. For that I would try overspray clay and quik detailer. If that works, you'll then need to determine if you have any below surface defects (scratches) that would need to be removed with a paint cleaner (scratch x) then re-wax.
If it doesn't work, try some simple green sprayed on a towel and wiped on the affected areas then cleaner and wax.

[Don]

I think it's just a bit more than surface residue. I think the clear coat is actually scuffed a bit. I would try an SMR like Megs #9 or a good cleaner wax.

[Mike Phillips]

Hi Mike,

Sorry to hear of your mishap.

The pictures makes it look like the clear coat is scuffed/marred. If this is the case, it may take machine polishing to completely remove. It it's only some type of residue sitting on the surface, then some ScratchX should safely remove it. Be sure to use either a clean, foam applicator pad, or some high quality 100% cotton to apply it with.

When it comes to removing defects, I always tell people,

”Sometimes you’re better off improving a scratch then attempting to completely remove a scratch”



Following Meguiar’s advise of always using the least aggressive product to get the job done,

By hand – I would try Scratch X, it this doesn’t remove, or improve the defect to your satisfaction then chances are good you will have to resort to using a machine.

By Machine - You could try using a PC with a W-8006 polishing pad and Meguiar’s paint cleaner, such as Medallion Premium Paint Cleaner, Meguiar’s Clear Coat Body Scrub or #83 Dual Action Cleaner Polish. The first two are available in 16 ounce bottles through auto parts stores, or online sources. The #83 is available through PBE stores or online sources.

If the PC doesn’t remove the defects, or improve them to your satisfaction, then it’s highly likely that it will require machine cleaning using a rotary buffer.

If you were local, I would have you stop by and I would buff them out for you. To be honest, from the picture, and my experience removing defects like this, to completely restore a like new finish, it will probably require machine cleaning with a rotary buffer.

Given the above suggestions, which method of attack would you like to try?

Mike

[mike_c70]

Thanks for all your suggestions. It's definitely no longer residue, it's what's left of what I took off.
Since I don't have a polisher, I'm going to go the hand route first. I have scratchX and some SMR sitting at home so I'm gonna try that this weekend.
Mike - If I can't get it out, I would like to take up on your offer. I'm in the Southbay so Irvine won't be that far. That way we can discuss some details on the hopefully upcoming Volvo NXT day!

[Mike Phillips]

Originally posted by mike_c70
Mike - If I can't get it out, I would like to take up on your offer. I'm in the Southbay so Irvine won't be that far. That way we can discuss some details on the hopefully upcoming Volvo NXT day!

I think I'll be buffing out a green Mustang next week, possibly Wednesday, or Thursday. If so, could you bring it by then?

Mike

[mike_c70]

Originally posted by Mike Phillips
I think I'll be buffing out a green Mustang next week, possibly Wednesday, or Thursday. If so, could you bring it by then?

Mike

That would be perfect. Let me know when you are doing the Mustang and I'll drop by that day. I'll PM you my phone number. Please give me a call in advance cuz it takes about an hour to get there. THANKS!!!

Regards,
Mike