How likely are today's paints going to survive long term?

[Michael Stoops]

Re: How likely are today's paints going to survive long term?



Yikes!!!

Tim, we've seen people apply wax a bit heavy in the past, but this is just crazy!






Oh, wait. Is this the "snow" thing we hear about here in SoCal????



Seriously though, can you even hazard a guess as to how many times you've machine polished your truck? Just curious because it's probably a great indication that you actually machine polish quite often without "using up" the clear coat.

[RG1202262]

Re: How likely are today's paints going to survive long term?

Yikes!!!

Tim, we've seen people apply wax a bit heavy in the past, but this is just crazy!






Oh, wait. Is this the "snow" thing we hear about here in SoCal????



Seriously though, can you even hazard a guess as to how many times you've machine polished your truck? Just curious because it's probably a great indication that you actually machine polish quite often without "using up" the clear coat.

Great job on that upkeep!

It's true about SoCal and the snow. Up until two years ago I had never been in it! How do you guys deal with the road salt?! I'm just glad I was driving a rental.

[captaincog]

Re: How likely are today's paints going to survive long term?

Glad to hear the input. I am taking a day off Friday just to detail my rides. I need the self time and since I am not going anywhere for the weekend, it's a good day to stay home.

[mongo]

Re: How likely are today's paints going to survive long term?

Todays clearcoats do a much better job at UV protection but due to VOC fail in other areas the clears need minor polishing to keep the swirls out. A reflective sealant accumulate swirls to.

Have a GREAT week ALL

[Tim Lingor]

Re: How likely are today's paints going to survive long term?

Seriously though, can you even hazard a guess as to how many times you've machine polished your truck? Just curious because it's probably a great indication that you actually machine polish quite often without "using up" the clear coat.

Hi Mike,

Good question, but for a rough estimate, usually I detail the truck once or twice a year with the rotary polisher, and 3+ times with the DA or as required (I also spot buff with the rotary if needed). This does not include any testing/reviewing of products on certain areas.

The biggest factor is using the least aggressive product to do the job. There has been a rash of posts by people suggesting to members the use of M105 etc from the start without even knowing how bad a paint finish really is or if it even requires an aggressive compound. Why remove more paint that necessary? For me, I will do only what needs to be done. Does that mean I spend more time detailing cars than others who just quickly jump to aggressive compounds? I am sure I do. But having your paint look as good as possible for many years requires constant care without abusing the paint with excessive and often non-required aggressive compounds. Just like a mechanic's tool box, you need to have the specialized tools to do the job the right way. Why use a hammer if it is not necessary?

As for the snow, some years we get hit really hard and others, it is relatively mild. But the truck sits outside 24/7, in the cold, heat, wind and rain and everything else in between.

Tim