Scratch Removal

bigdogs · November 13, 2003

What is the best thing to remove or atleast minimize scratches? I have some along the rear corner of the box and the dealer said to repaint it would be like $550

Thanks

99silveradoz71 · November 14, 2003

A claybar works well to clean paint and remove some surface scratches. You could also try a product such as Meguiars' Scratch X or such. Just remember to re-wax the area afterward.

bigdogs · November 14, 2003

Thanks I'll give that a try and see if it works.

99silveradoz71 · November 15, 2003

If you clay, just be sure to keep it lubricated using a detailing spray or you will end up with more scratches. Also, if the clay hits the ground, it's done.

bigdogs · November 16, 2003

Thanks for the tips. Do any of these make the finish hazy where you went over the scratches?

hcvone · November 17, 2003

Claying with not remove any surface scratches, claying will only remove surface contamination. For scratches and swirls you will need a product like 3M Scratch and Swirl Remover, this product can be used by hand, but will work better with a buffer. If your scratches are bad but not through the paint you may want to use a little liquid rubbing compound (use the liquid, the past is very abrasive) , and then swith to the Scratch and Swirl Remover, then finish with your favorite wax. The 3M Scratch and Swirl Remove contain mild abrasives so take your time and you will be pleased with the finsh you get.

99silveradoz71 · November 18, 2003

I stand clarified

bigdogs · November 18, 2003

Thanks Again for the tips. I went to another body shop and was quoted $500 to repaint the side of the box AND if I wanted to also replace the plastic wheel flair that was another $250

I can't believe a few little scratches cost this much to fix.... I may see what the touchup paint will look like.

Wingnut · November 18, 2003

Thanks Again for the tips. I went to another body shop and was quoted $500 to repaint the side of the box AND if I wanted to also replace the plastic wheel flair that was another $250

I can't believe a few little scratches cost this much to fix.... I may see what the touchup paint will look like.

Look on Ebay for flares, you can usually pick up an entire set for $250.

Or scrapyards are an option there as well. It's not like you need a brand new one, and there has to be a million extra flares out there in the salvage yards.

bigdogs · November 18, 2003

hmmm never thought of Ebay.. thanks...

SnakeEyeSS · November 18, 2003

you might be suprised what you can find on e-bay for cars........

bigdogs · November 18, 2003

I'll definitely have to check out ebay. I never think of looking there..

chevy4x4trucks · November 18, 2003

How deep are the scratches? Meguauires scratch x hides light scratches nicely, but for any deep scratch there isn't much you can do to hide it aside from repainting.

You can buy some touch up paint and do a lil' wet sanding to fix it up.

There was also some product that lets you put on the touch up paint, let it set for a bit and then wipe off the excess (dunno if it actually works, just sorta popped to mind).

Another alternative for the flairs is to just spray paint them. Especially if they aren't body matched, no one will ever know the difference. On my silverado I sprayed mine w/ the spray on bedliner to give them a rougher look. Turned out really nice.

bigdogs · November 18, 2003

Well the body shop said they were deep enough to require repainting which meant the whole side and there are some scratches on that plastic flair too. What happened was that it rubbed against one of those d**n address signs when I was backing up and trying to look around Homer's head (my mastiff) in the back of the cab. They scratches don't scream out but if you know where to look you can easily see them....

The flairs are black as well as the truck. I'm not sure how to post a picture of it or I would to show what the damage looks like. I still can't believe they get $250 for one of them

I may try a little touch up and see what that does as atleast it will protect it from the snow that should be coming soon. I figure if I have to get the whole side painted they have to sand it anyway so that touchup wont really cause a problem.