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Old 10-31-2007, 11:17 AM   #1
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2007 27' Safari FB SE
Scurry , Texas
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Removing tree limb scratches?

any advice on buffing out or other techniques to remove light tree limb scratches from the side of our A/S? Was going to try polishing compound but thought I'd ask first.
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Old 10-31-2007, 11:32 AM   #2
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Brow324,
Depending on just how deep it is..You might be able to lightly buff it out.
Since your unit is so new, I wouldn't recommend getting too aggressive with the compounding. I would hate to see you end up redoing the clear-coating as the original application on your unit's is applied during manufacturing..prior to it's arrival at the factory.
Do you have any pictures?
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Old 10-31-2007, 11:35 AM   #3
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don't use compound!

I believe using any type of abrasive on the finish will make matters worse.

I have similar scratches on mine and over the last couple of years, they've faded to almost imperceptible. I've waxed the finish several times and that seems to help them "heal".

Marc
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Old 10-31-2007, 12:01 PM   #4
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Brow:

I would do a good search on forum as there are many prior threads on polishing, removing scratches, tar, etc and almost any of the buffing threads start with a step to remove scratches from years of use - typically a use of higher grit compound or an abrasive pad. research and tread as lightly as possible to avoid making matters worse. I plan to do the same when I find the 140 hours of time to polish our 68'.
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Old 10-31-2007, 12:02 PM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Brow324
any advice on ...techniques to remove light tree limb scratches
hi brow'....

STOP! DON'T MAKE IT WORSE....

make it betta!

i use

meg's scratch x...

Meguiar's Scratch X Scratch Remover

AND

3m perfect it 3000, also known as 3m perfect it swirl mark remover, also known as 3m perfect it foam polishing pad glaze light...

3M Perfect-It Swirl Mark Remover for Light Paints was created specifically for whites, lights and metallics!

both of these products are microfine and will take down the scratch edges with VERY LITTLE risk of clearcoat insult.

IF your damage is down to the METAL, (does a finger nail catch in the scratch?) nothing can undo that....

but with the above products, a microfiber pad and some poly sealant coating it can look pretty good and will be well protected....

i've worked on some ohmygoodnessuglynasty scratches that were completely removed with no visible traces remaining, using the products listed above.

the poly sealant coatings have been covered in other threads....

a/s does sell a spray acrylic clearcoat touch up and auto clearcoat touch ups can be used.

these products may cover the bare metal...

my experience is that these items aren't often applied correctly and with adequate prep...

so the results usually look much worse than the original damage.

the info above applies ONLY to the clearcoated alcoa panels from recent production, NOT the plasti-coat or al-clad aluminum of bygone dayz...

cheers
2air'
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Old 10-31-2007, 12:06 PM   #6
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I've used Walbernize super seal. Takes them right out...as long as they are light/mild.
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Old 10-31-2007, 12:17 PM   #7
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You can take 2airs and Silver Hostess Goodness replies to the bank! In my haste to trick or treat I neglected to look at your model year which calls for a delicate touch on the newer skins. Of course most of us never graze anything in our travels nudge nudge wink wink
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Old 10-31-2007, 12:29 PM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Silvertwinkie
I've used Walbernize super seal. Takes them right out...as long as they are light/mild.
I can testify to the Walbernize. It works good for hiding scratches.
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Old 11-03-2007, 08:36 AM   #9
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The limb scratches are very light...only in the clear coat....thanks for all the good advice ...I will tread lightly!
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