Remove Small Deep Scratches

[gjsydney]

I have an '07 Ram with Inferno Red metallic paint and I have a few small but deep scratches I'm assuming from people leaning over the rear fender to move items in and out of the bed. Aside from going to a professional detail/body shop, what are my options? I am NOT familiar with claying or other scratch removal processes. THX Jim

[Murr1525]

Re: Remove Small Deep Scratches

Is there any chance of a pic of the scratches?

How deep are they? Able to catch/dig a finger nail in them?

[gjsydney]

Re: Remove Small Deep Scratches

One about an inch long is deep enough to feel with a fingernail the others are just in the clearcoat. I have pictures uploaded at: http://meguiarsonline.com/forums/pho...0&ppuser=32589 thanks, Jim.

[Murr1525]

Re: Remove Small Deep Scratches

While they all should be able to be improved, the one you can feel would need touch up paint, sanding, etc to really make go away.

Claying does not remove swirls, it just removes dirt. Though still good to do.

If you just want to work on the scratches, I would pick up a tube of ScratchX 2.0 and a smooth foam applicator. You would want to work it in with some passion over the areas. Think making a small car rock on its springs as you work it in.

Or you may be looking to detail the entire truck some as well?

[SATracker]

Re: Remove Small Deep Scratches

In his detailing classes, Mike Phillips says you need to consider how much damage you'll do to the paint when trying to remove deep scratches. Sometimes the scratches need to stay so that the paint is still protected.