Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

[dochou]

I saw a very light scratch on my paint and I applied ScratchX to it. I was working in my garage and had a bright spot light shining on the area in question. When I used the scratchX, I noticed very fine micro scratches on the paint that was only visable under the bright spotlight. So while trying to get rid of a thin light scratch I think i now have a bunch more scratches. Is this normal?
Any suggestions?

[Orca]

Re: Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

Yes, this can happen ... also, if you tape up the area take care not to use ScratchX all the way up to the tape line or you'll end up with a new "scratch". Technique improvement? Work the product longer and faster ... and use a second hit if necessary. You'll find your way with it ...

[yalerd]

Re: Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

What did you use to apply ScratchX?

[dochou]

Re: Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

I was using a new microfiber cloth.
So in the case with small light scratches on new paint, it seems you need to really evaluate whether you want one scratch or multiple fine scratches that are only visable under certain lighting.

[Markus Kleis]

Re: Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

the cloth might be the cause here...really pushing hard with some microfiber will lead to marring.

I suggest the appropriate foam pad and a second attempt.

[J. A. Michaels]

Re: Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

I think it was the cloth also. Try a Meguiars foam pad and see if that takes care of it.

[miahjohn]

Re: Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

i used to use the scratch x before the new improved formula and it worked great...bought a new bottle and it scratched the hell out of the paint applying it the same way as before.

[PorscheGuy997]

Re: Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

Something just is not right here.

The old formula tended to gum up with the PC, so it was reformulated to be thinner and not gum up.

So, what type of applicator are you using? How long are you working the product? How much force are you using?


ScratchX, when used properly, does not leave swirls and scratches.

[Mike Phillips]

Re: Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

ScratchX by itself won't scratch paint, the problem will be with your application material or your technique and maybe both.

I have been demonstrating ScratchX in front of up to 50 people for the last 4+ years at our Saturday classes and in each class I never know what I'm going to work on until we choose the demo car that day and to date I've never instilled scratches using ScratchX into all the different paint systems on all the different cars that are chosen to be worked on.

Polishing paint is an art form, not a mechanical process, it requires the human elements of care and passion to do it right and that's because auto paints, especially clear coat paints.

Try again, maybe try a clean, soft foam applicator pad this time and pay close attention to how you're applying the product, you want to be firm but not forceful....

[dochou]

Re: Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

I used a new MF towel the 1st time.
This time can I use the foam pad that comes with the nxt wax?

[Mike Phillips]

Re: Can ScratchX cause micro scratches on my paint?

I used a new MF towel the 1st time.
This time can I use the foam pad that comes with the nxt wax?

Yes try the foam. Make sure everything is clean.

By itself, ScratchX won't scratch paint, so the scratches are coming from either your application material or your pressure and probably both.

Also, ScratchX isn't your "finishing product". It offers no protection and is not intended to leave behind a maximized finish, that's the job of a finishing product like a pure polish or a wax.

Also just to point out, ScratchX is a paint cleaner, that means defect remover and the way it removes defects is by removing a little paint. In the old days people used "Rubbing Compound" or "Polishing Compound".

You want to see scratches? That's what you would see if you used a product like one of these. ScratchX and Deep Crystal Paint Cleaner our Meguiar's intelligent alternatives to old fashioned rubbing and polishing compounds.

So try again and with your last applications, reduce your pressure. Keep in mind, polishing paint is an art form, not a mere mechanical process, it requires the human elements of care and passion to create a beautiful finish and you must bring those attributes to the table from within.