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I am trying to remove a pretty deep scratch from my truck with 1000 and 1500 sandpaper. Do you guys have any tricks to determine how far you can go with the sandpaper? I just want to get it to look as good as possible without removing all the clear coat.
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From AppletonCarWash.com:
We've been working with vehicle finishes for years, and it's important to be cautious when wet sanding, especially if you're trying to remove a deep scratch. The key is to make sure you don’t go too deep and remove the clear coat, which is crucial for protecting the paint underneath.
A good trick is to use a paint depth gauge (or a depth finder) to measure how thick the clear coat is. These tools are fairly inexpensive and can help you assess how much material you can safely remove. You can usually find a reliable paint depth gauge for under $50. Just be sure to check multiple spots on the affected area to get an average reading before sanding.
When using sandpaper, start with the least abrasive grit (like 1000) and only move to finer grits (1500 or higher) once you've reduced the scratch. Always keep the area wet to prevent heat buildup, and be careful not to apply too much pressure.
If you're unsure, or the scratch is very deep, it might be worth considering whether you should replace the clear coat after wet sanding to maintain the best finish.
Let us know if you need further tips—we’re happy to help!
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