light clear coat scratches

[LBC Safari]

I have searched and searched and not found a thread relating to this problem. We have enjoyed our 2003 Safari 25SS for about a month and a half now. We washed with the Armor All brand of car wash and 100% cotton terry clothes, flowing the grain of the aluminum. With a nice clean skin we found that a previous wash or two had finely scratched the clear coat in an up and down pattern (opposite of our grain). It really takes away from the sparkle and we want to fix it the best we can. I'm thinking of trying the Meguiar's Scratch X which claims to be cear coat safe. But the product does remove a thin layer of clear coat in order to minimize scratches . After the Scratch X would be some clay, because we have a few MAJOR pine tree sap patches. Then wax with Liquid Glass, which has been favored on a few threads. Any replies, opinions or food for thought would be appreciated. We live in Long Beach (Pacific breezes+pollution) and want to get our new-to-us beauty sparkly and protected. Thanks! Kris

[C Johnson]

Hi LBC, try Zymol. Rated #1 by consumer reports for clearcoated vehicles. I use it on my black clearcoated Ford F-250. It does last quite a while too, so you don't have to redo it quite as often.

[SinisterSled]

Light scratches can be removed with a polish and a little elbow grease. Meguires makes several products which have different grits choose the application which sounds best and apply. For deep scratches wetsanding and machine buffing will also work although this should not be attempted if you do not have prior experience. You will remove clear coat in order to remove the scratch. Once completed then wax finish. Good luck!

[William Ales]

I asked this question a month ago in regards to moderate tree scratches. The majority of answers came up with "Walbernize" an Airstream polish, cleanser and light scratch remover available from the manufacturer or Airstream.

Worked for me!

I posted my question in the repair section and got many co-operative answers!

Bill A