Getting water spots off of paint

"PyramidHat" (pyramidhat) 04/09/2020 at 21:58 • Filed to: None

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Right, then...

Moving in to the detailing portion of getting the Z3 back to its former glory. While the underlying paint is shiny, there were little bits of what have you stuck to the surface - most of which I dispatched with a clay bar (mild, I assume - they were in the Mother’s kit with the lubricant and the microfiber towel ). But there are still water spots from when the car was living outside. I think these might be etched  in the clear coat as the paint is now fairly smooth. I’ve seen some folks recommend vinegar (or even diluted wheel cleaner) - anyone try these with any success. Or is this something I’m going to have to try and polish out?

Yes, I know I can YouTube all sorts of shit that answers this, but those are a bunch of weirdo strangers, no fine folks like our fellow Opponauts.

ITA97, now with more Jag @ opposite-lock.com > PyramidHat 04/09/2020 at 22:10

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If they're more than a claybar can remove, the next step is compounding.  I'd start with a finer cut compound like Miguire's ultimate compound and see what harpoons (especially if you are new to full on rotary buffers).

PyramidHat > ITA97, now with more Jag @ opposite-lock.com 04/09/2020 at 22:13

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Is a rotary buffer required?  or could I use a DA?

Gerry197 > PyramidHat 04/09/2020 at 22:15

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A spray bottle with 50% white vinegar and 50% water with a microfiber towel easily removed hard water spots on our sedan that my favorite cleaner wax could not make a dent with.  Or simply put 50/50 vinegar & water in a bowl, soak the towel and wipe.  

Came off so easily, I was amazed. Make sure to wash it after and then put another coat of wax since the vinegar will remove that.

ITA97, now with more Jag @ opposite-lock.com > PyramidHat 04/09/2020 at 22:23

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That’s a good question. It might depend on the product.  I’ve only ever used a rotary.  Part of me wonders if a DA would cut enough, but I imagine someone here might know the answer.

Future next gen S2000 owner > PyramidHat 04/09/2020 at 22:48

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Dual action buffer and cutting compound. Should take care of it.

Future next gen S2000 owner > ITA97, now with more Jag @ opposite-lock.com 04/09/2020 at 22:49

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I’m partial to a DA as there is less chance you burn through the clear or paint.

Old-Busted-Hotness > PyramidHat 04/10/2020 at 05:59

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For a minor job, a DA is actually better. Rotary buffers are meant for heavy jobs like knocking down orange peel. It’s really hard to hurt the paint with a DA, unless you drop it on the hood.

I like Meguiars products, but ask 10 people and you’ll get 12 answers. Start with Medium-Cut Cleaner and follow up with Swirl Remover. Use a medium-hard foam pad on the DA, mid to high speed. Then wax it, using a softer pad and lower speed. It’ll look amazing.

ateamfan42 > PyramidHat 04/10/2020 at 08:29

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I think these might be etched in the clear coat as the paint is now fairly smooth. I’ve seen some folks recommend vinegar

If the clear is etched, then repair is what you need: polishing or compounding to smooth down the surface of the clear. If it is just mineral deposits, a mild acid (I like diluted white vinegar) can help break those up. As was stated elsewhere, good to follow the acid bath with a quick wash so the detergent neutralizes the acid.