Bad Scratch On Paint!

johnsonjf · July 28, 2007

Ok I was loading a diesel drum to be filled with the front loading end of my tractor. Well I accidently "tapped" the back end of my NEW 2007 NBS Silverado...I mean, it has less than 1,200 miles on it. Well the scratch is small about half an inch long and about a centimeter wide.

The problem is that this is DEFINATLY not going to buff out. Where the scratch is you cant even see pain anymore...mostly just primer and in a small place the metal of the truck.

The scratch is above the driver's side tail light and would most likely be covered up when I put bed caps on the truck. However, what is the best way to repair this scratch? I would like it to look like it did before (or as close as possible) or at the LEAST prep the scratch so that it does not rust. In addition, I'd like to avoid having a body shop repairing it (but if this is the best way, please let me know). Any ideas are encouraged.

The paint color is Graystone Metallic

Nytemare · July 29, 2007

I wash the area with alcohol, than use rubbing compound on a wet rag, buff lightly until the edges of the scratch are rounded down, than follow that by some scratch X to get rid of the swirl marks created by the rubbing compound. after all that is done follow by a complete wash and wax of the entire quarter panel or affected area.

You could also use some touch up paint, give it 3-5 days to cure properly, than use the same technique to level its edges with the paint.

Make sure to keep the towel you are using for the rubbing compound wet, not dripping but really damp. A microfiber cloth works best.

The last bad scratch I had I had to use touch up paint and buff it level.

I would go talk to your dealership and find out who they use to fix paint on their vehicles. Its almost certain you will need a professional job done on this scratch. My way works fine on aged paint, a couple to 3 years old, but this stuff is almost fresh. Your best bet would be to get it professionally done.

dsmazz · July 29, 2007

Without seeing a pic of the damage, it's sort of hard to say exactly how to repair it, if at all. I had my '99 Sierra keyed from taillight to headlight on the passenger side when the truck had 2200 miles on it. I used the following information to repair the scratch, which went down to the metal in a few areas. When I got done, only I could tell where the repair was at. Don't know your skill level, so all I can do is post the info and then you are on your own. Good luck. It's gotta make you feel sick. I feel for ya.

To Retouch a Knick or Scratch

1. If the knick or scratch is to bare metal:

a. Use 1000 grit w/d sandpaper and lightly and carefully sand wet to clean the affected area.

b. Wipe area with prep-sol or other solvent to make certain it is clean.

c. Use a good quality primer, and lightly dab into the nick or scratch to cover the bare metal. A carboard match stick (end opposite the match head) works good for this. If the area is thin, a toothpick may also work well.

2. With the bare metal covered with new primer or if the original factory primer is in tact, lightly wet sand with 1500 grit w/d sandpaper. If any bare metal is exposed, perform Step 1 through 1c.

3. Wipe with prep-sol to clean area.

4. Lightly dab or brush a thin coat of matching color paint into the affected area.

IMPORTANT!! - Do not apply too thick. Several thin coats will give better results than one thick coat.

5. Allow to dry several hours at a minimum, depending on temperature and humidity.

6. Lightly wet sand with 1500 grit w/d sandpaper and wipe with prep-sol.

7. Repeat Steps 4, 5, and 6 until level of new paint is slightly below original factory finish. Allow to thoroughly dry.

8. Apply a thin coat of clearcoat over the affected area. Some overlap onto the factory finish is o.k., but don't get carried away. A second coat may be necessary. The level needs to be ever so slightly above the factory finish.

9. Allow to dry and wet sand with 2000 grit w/d sandpaper. Use great care not to sand too deeply. The goal is to level the repair flush to the factory finish.

10. Use a good quality polish and hand polish to buff out any dullness.

Technique is critical to a successful job. A steady hand and patience are real assets in attempting this type of repair. 3M Corporation makes a small kit with primer and clearcoat along with some small pieces of w/d sandpaper, that is available at many auto parts stores, and some large retailers like WalMart. This kit does require a separate purchase of the matching color paint needed.