Etched in water spots

**TQB** · 06-19-2004, 08:43 AM

Hey all,

I am down at my parents this weekend I am doing a complete makeover on dads red ranger for fathers day.

I have ran into a major problem.

WATER SPOTS!!!!

He is past the detailing stage in life and thinks that a good trip to the car wash is OK and nothing more is needed since its clearcoated.

This truck is only 1 year old and it has never been waxed before. Also when he washes it he never dries it so the spots get backed on.

What I have tried so far with no luck at removing them is:
Clay - still there
SSR1 - still there (polishing pad)
Pro Polish - still there (polishing pad)
PwC - still there (polishing pad)
Menzerna IP - still there (polishing pad)

I have since removed all swirls and stuff but these water spots still remain.
I have a cutting pad for the PC but am a little reluctant to use that for water spots since nothing else above has seemed to remove them.

Anyone have any idea`s?

Right now it looks flawless at 5 foot.
He says just wax over them I dont care. I would rather try and get them out but am loosing hope.

**jstn** · 06-19-2004, 08:47 AM

the only thing that will remove water etching is wet sanding and use of a rotary. goodluck

**TQB** · 06-19-2004, 08:53 AM

Thanks JSTN.

**freedre** · 06-19-2004, 09:28 AM

Try the wet sanding route. I was initimidated by the thought of it at first, but it`s really easy to do and the results will amaze you.

Start with 2500 or 2000 grit and if this doesn`t do it, work your way down to 1000 grit.

Also, soak your sanding pads overnight in water and use a sanding block.

Good luck.

PS - it looks like your weather is clearing up

**jstn** · 06-19-2004, 09:57 AM

Originally posted by freedre
Try the wet sanding route. I was initimidated by the thought of it at first, but it`s really easy to do and the results will amaze you.

Start with 2500 or 2000 grit and if this doesn`t do it, work your way down to 1000 grit.

Also, soak your sanding pads overnight in water and use a sanding block.

Good luck.

PS - it looks like your weather is clearing up

what did you follow up the wetsanding with? a pc or rotary? what polishes? etc...

**Poorboy** · 06-19-2004, 10:04 AM

Tommy i would try stronger products like SSR2.5 or SSR3 or DACP long before the wet sanding stage...always work the least aggressive method first and work up...the finish is relatively new and if it is only rain induced then they should come out..if they are from soaps, bird dropping or sprinklers you may need to go to more aggressive methods...

**TQB** · 06-19-2004, 10:36 AM

Steve I am pretty sure they are just from rain.

i tried everthing I got with me in my aresenal to no avail. So I have just put EXx2 on it for complete coverage and that hid them pretty well. (I know this is not the best but it was better than nothing)

Tomorrow will come the real test I am going to put EX-P over the EX and hope that doesnt make them stand out again.

Steve by the way when is your
Bio-degradable degreaser and cleaner gonna be back in stock?

**freedre** · 06-19-2004, 10:45 AM

I followed up with SSR3, DACP and SSR1 with my PC.

Poorboy has just submitted some excellent advice tho - definitely work from the least aggressive compound.

BTW - there is an excellent thread on Autopia entitled <Problem After Sanding Down Touch-up Paint >

Read this before doing ANYTHING.

**rhillstr** · 06-19-2004, 12:01 PM

Try a vinegar solution to remove hard water then correct any etching (if any) left behind.

**fiprofits** · 06-19-2004, 07:02 PM

It sounds like these water markings are from what people refer to as acid rain. It has been said that once these are etched unto the paint, is just about impossible remove them. Are there any products that can be applied to a vehicle from getting these water markings....many dealerships claim that they have paint protection products in which the applied and provides an insurance that would re-paint areas affected by acid rain, tree saps, bird droppings and the like. Heard names from Auto Armour, Diamond Kote, Simoniz, Ziebart, etc.

It seems that acid raid is more prevelent in the northeast part of the country.

**tguil** · 06-19-2004, 08:29 PM

Maybe a good wax job a couple of times a year is all your dad needs. I`ll bet that he gets new water spots within a week. Been there done that with both my parents and my in-laws.

If it`s acid rain the only real cure is a paint job. Been there done that too

Tom :cool