I have a 2000 EB expy, It was a salvage and rebulit. (rebuilt,repainted about year ago) the work done was good along with the body work but the paint seems to scratch very easy. I Have waxed it a few times but really dosen't seem to protect it all that much. I think it needs more clear coats. Is it to late to do this? any suggestions-------thanks scott

 

no, you can put on more coats of clear if you wish, but will need at least 2 or 3 coats. If the existing paint is in good overall shape and only has minor scratches, then wetsand it with around 800 to 1000 grit wet, and a scuff pad where you can't sand good with the sandpaper, till you have no more shiney spots before paint. If you break through the clear and go down to the base color, then these spots will need more base applied and blended before clear. If you were planning on clearing it by yourself, then don't apply the first coat of clear overly wet. It can run easy on the first coat with a 1000 grit scratch. Just paint it even, just so it isn't overly dry, then worry about wetter coats and getting a wet glossy look with no dry areas on your last coat. The first coat should just give the following coats something to stick to. Check your tech sheets for the clear for time between coats for a guide. Feel the paper and when it feels tacky but not wet and the clear on it strings from your finger is when you should be ready for another coat. I wonder why the paint on it scratches so easy. Either it isn't the best paint, or maybe the activator wasn't mixed correctly or it didn't cure properly staying somewhat soft,which can possibly happen if the temps don't stay above 55 degrees while its curing. Another thing, If it was waxed, you should wash with soap and water and wipe down with something like a wax and grease remover before sanding so the wax doesn't get imbedded in the paint, and wipe down again before painting, or it may cause fisheyes when its cleared.

 

If you don't want to redo the clear right now, you might want to try a polishing product called Liquid Glass. I've been using this stuff on my 1999 Grand Prix and our 2000 Kenworth. I tried it first on the KW because the hood was beginning to look dull & oxidized. I'm impressed with the finish. It doesn't fix or hide existing scratches, but does help protect the finish. You can get Liquid Glass from Discount Auto Parts (Advanced Auto) for around $17. The more coats you put on, the better protection you get.

 

Hey, thanks guys really good info. thanks again