clearcoat scratches -- how to remove

[Apexdisco]

I got some nasty scratches in my clear coat over the weekend after coming through some very narrow trails up in GWNF. I need some recommendations on removing them. From what I've read, it's suggested to use a foam pad to apply the compound.

What are you guys using/doing for this?

 

[Off Road Disco]

I got some nasty scratches in my clear coat ... What are you guys using/doing for this?

I like to drive when we go out for lunch at work with other people. Then when I get close to the Disco I pretent to get all upset about how someone keyed the hell out of the truck and then watch the expression on people's faces.

 

[dent]

lmao!!!
going to have to try that one day....

 

[utahdog2003]

buy a white truck

 

[Apexdisco]

I was with a couple who where riding in a Jeep this weekend. After finishing the one trail, my friends g/f asked me, "Are those all scratches!?". I just shook my head.

It's my daily driver and my first 'nice' vehicle, so I try to take good care of it.

 

[rrefx]

First you need to establish how deep they are. General rule of thumb is if they are deep enought to catch your finger nail in... then they are too deep to buff out, and just learn to live with them. If you don't have a buffer, then get a clean cotten cloth, usually sold at the store next to the polish. I use a hand polish, different from a wax, and usually can get most scratches out. You want to apply some to teh rag, and continue rubbing till the polish appears to be gone. Concentrate on an area till your satisfied, then move on. Should work out pretty well, Although to be honest, I've given up on polishin the rover. I'll just scratch it again soon anyways.... keep the buffer for the camaro. Also, if you do use a buffer... never use one that goes over 1800 RPM's, or the scratches will be the least of your problems.

Good Luck,

~ Ry

 

[Jparker]

At any LR dealership they sell thornproof dressing. My dad used it on his 2003 Rangie before taking it on some narrow trails in Northern Alabama. It held up pretty well against the thorns.

If the scratches aren't that deep, they'll probably wax out. You could also take it to a carwash and get them to compound it. It's kind of expensive (about $70 for something as big as a Rover) but you'll be surprised at what they can get out.

 

[Jparker]

P.S.
Unless you really know what you're doing, my advice is don't try to compound it yourself. I tried it on my black rr and left swirl marks and scratches all over the hood, even after I waxed it. Luckily, the people at the car wash could get it out.

 

[jmonsrvr]

go out and by yourself mcguires (might be mguires) "swirl x". its got a big red x on a all black tube. the stuff works really well for minor scratches. after you use it make sure to wax your truck. also before hitting the trails its a good idea to put a nice layer of wax on the truck..this will help out with avoiding minor scratches.

cheers

 

[MTNHDWR]

I second "mcguires" swirl x. I have used it several times and it is amazing how well it works. The local LR dealer turned me on to it originally.

 

[dent]

abit off topic but MTNHDWR, do you work for mountain hardware? if so.. you're one lucky SOB as you prolly get discounts on all the stuff...

 

[Reed]

I would also recommend the Meguier's Scratch X. It is amazing stuff. The sides of my Disco looked pretty ugly after one trip out into the mesquite. The Scratch X removed about 95% of the scratches, and really reduced the big ones.

-Reed

 

[discobuddy]

I have been using Scratch X on my dark green disco from the first scratch. It does work well. Just remeber, the deep ones are like scars, there is always a story behind them. And also....Chicks Dig Scars.

 

[Brian Fransson]

I usually use one of the many 3 step products like Mothers or Maguires. They all work about the same. One tip, apply and remove going side to side, no swirl marks.
Rgds
Brian

 

[Discojunky]

Utah Dog got it right. The great white disco will hide srcatches that would look really bad on many dark colors. It wasn't my first choice in color but I bought it knowing it would show srctches less. Mine is scratched to hell but you really don't notice unless you look from an angle. But compound will lighten up all scratches just go easy because you can remove your paint as well. But your really fighting a losing battle becacuse you will probably just scratch it again right? What ever you do don't park it and walk with the other guys who spent 30K and up on a 4x4 but won't use it because they might scratch it.

 

[GregFrench]

Scratches add character.
If you don't like them, run into a rock or tree. If the dent is big enough, you won't even notice the scratches, and dents add even more character than scratches.

Every dent is a story waiting to be told.