How to Buff Clear Coat

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You don't need to be a pro to perfectly buff the clear coat on your car. With the proper tools and material, some time, and some elbow grease, you can have that high-gloss finish you want.

Steps

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    At this point, if you see "orange peel" or "trash" on the surface, wet sand with 1000 or 1200 grit wet or dry automotive grade sandpaper. This will smooth out the surface and allow for a super shine finish. [1]
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    A variable speed buffer with a lambs wool pad will be necessary to do a nice job. Single speed buffers are not recommend because of the increased chance of burning the finish down to the color coat. [2]
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      Keep the buffer moving and watch how the finish is changing to a high gloss. [3]
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    Don't overdo it.
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    This may be terry cloth or foam.
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    You can run the buffer at a higher speed for this step.  If there are swirl marks remaining on the finish you can also purchase a swirl mark remover. This will give you a professional high gloss finish. [4]
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  • Question
    Can I water sand between clear coats?
    Community Answer
    Just let it air dry and use extremely fine sand paper.
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      Video

      Tips

      • Cover windows with masking paper to ease clean up. Stay away from items with a black finish as the compounds will cause them to become discolored gray and impossible to remove, i.e mirror frames, body side moldings, bumpers, etc.
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      • Before turning on the buffer wipe the compound slightly with the buffer pad to prevent the compound from "slinging" causing  it to fly all over.
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      • Keep surface cool to avoid burnishing.
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      Warnings

      • Keep the power cord away from the spinning buffer as this could result in injury and damage to the cord. Take the power cord and try to keep it behind you making  a loop and put it through a belt loop.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urIiKG4UPCQ
      2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iOBmOyl0vE
      3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urIiKG4UPCQ
      4. ↑ https://driving-tests.org/beginner-drivers/how-to-wax-your-car/

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Avinash Samuel

        Jul 1, 2016

        "This article indeed was very helpful. Teaches a lot about buffing and polishing after applying clear coat by using ..." more
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