OEM Look?

[stanclub]

Hi Guys,

I repainted couple door panels on my car, and would like to get the clear coat look matching the OEM on the rest of car. What grit should I start the fist cut? what is the recommended ending grit?

Also, what is the difference sanding the clear coat with and without interface pad? When to use it and when not??

I also have found many holes in my clear coat after I sanded the clear flat. Was it because I did not want long enough between coats? I understand that I have to wait about 10-15 minutes flash time in between coats, but I don't think I have waited that long ( my 2nd time spraying so I was a little nervous ). If not, what could the problem be?? I have filter attached at the gun inlet, and the clear coat I use is Transtar Euro Classic with slow reducer, shot it at temp about 70+ degrees cool late afternoon. The gun is startingline with 1.3mm tip which is fairly new.

Thanks for the help!!!

[Jayson M]

It can be a challenge to match the factory look.If you increase your distance with your gun from the surface,and drop your air pressure you can get the oem look you are after.If you cut and buff your panels they will look like glass and it will not match the rest of the car.If you have holes in your clear you may have solvent pop.I want to get the smoothest job possible out of the gun when I spray a complete,but when doing collision painting it is best to match the factory peel so all panels look the same.

[Robert]

with 2000 on a soft block unless you're too good to start with.

Take your block and lightly hit the OEM paint on the adjacent panel. That will give you an idea of what you're shooting for, then sand till you get that look on the panel you're working and buff it out. Do a small test area. If that works keep going, if it doesn't you'll know what to do.

You might have to lightly sand the OEM to a foot and a half or so out from your new paint to hide the change but most people aren't that sensitive to exactly how much texture there is, they'll only see the change if you cut too perfect.

You're right though, the best repair is an invisible repair.

Robert