On Sat, 02 Jun 2007 13:58:39 -0500, drb wrote:

> I bought some paint in spray cans that match the original car color well.
> I also bought adhesion promoter, primer (metal and rubber-plastic) and
> clear coat to use too.
>
> I'm concerned after spraying a test area (I'm an amateur) that I can't get
> the area I paint properly buffed / shined. I know the paint's web site
> gives instructions but I think my efforts won't get it right. Is there a
> trick to get the paint w/ clear coat I apply, buffed / shined so that it
> looks like the original ?
>
> Also do I need the adhesion promoter on metal where I'll touch up or just
> start with the metal primer? I know it's needed on the rubber/plastic
> bumpers.

First, you don't need adhesion promoter on metal surfaces. What you DO
need is an ultra-clean surface.

Go to an auto parts store and get a degreaser/wax remover like R-M 900.
It's not *too* expensive. Or, ask the counter person if they have anything
to remove dirt, grease, wax road grime, etc prior to painting.

At the very least, clean the car well with the degreaser/wax remover. For
your next step, you should wet sand with 600 grit paper. Lightly sand the
area keeping the paper wet. You don't want to get down to bare metal, or
even primer, you just want to scuff the finish.

Clean again with degreaser and rinse with water, then have a beer while it
dries or use a soft, LINT FREE towel to dry.

Then, spray the paint, with even storkes, and keeping the can straight
above the surface. Don't go from side to side lifting the can up at the
ends. This gives you orangepeel (so will putting on too much).

Put on a moderate first coat, not enough for runs but enough for coverage.
Then, let it 'flash' for 15-20 minutes, and apply another cpat. Again,
allow a flash time of 15 minutes and then coat with the clear coat.

Now, for the kicker: DON'T TOUCH IT FOR 30 DAYS. No wax, no nothing. If
you wash the car, rinse this area with clear water.

After 30 days, try waxing to see if you get luster. If not, try buffing
with a LIGHT buffing compound or wet sanding with 1500 grit sandpaper,
LIGHTLY! Then dry and apply wax.

I'm assuming you're using Dupli-Color. Not the best; adequate at best. But
then, tha alternative is to get a compressor, spray gun, etc...

So, the Dupli-color is OK!

Good luck!