Paint Correction and Machine Polishing Flashcards

What type of defect can typically NOT be removed by paint correction alone?

Answer: Scratches penetrating to the primer or metal

Scratches that penetrate through the clear coat and base coat into the primer or bare metal require touch-up paint or body repair, not polishing.

What is 'pad priming' and why is it done?

Answer: Applying a small amount of product to a new foam pad to prevent it from absorbing too much compound

Pad priming applies a small amount of compound or polish to a new foam pad so that the porous foam is pre-loaded and won't absorb the working product unevenly.

How does paint hardness affect the choice of compound and pad combination?

Answer: Harder paint requires softer pads and milder compounds

Harder paint, such as that found on many European vehicles, cuts more slowly and responds well to softer pads with milder compounds to avoid hazing.

What is the purpose of a paint depth reading before and after polishing?

Answer: To verify that sufficient clear coat remains and document how much was removed

Taking paint depth readings before and after polishing confirms that enough clear coat remains for safe use and documents material removed during the correction process.

Which technique best prevents 'tiger stripes' when using a rotary polisher?

Answer: Maintaining consistent speed, overlap, and pressure throughout each pass

Consistent machine speed, 50% overlapping passes, and steady pressure prevent the uneven removal patterns known as tiger stripes.

After machine polishing, what step should be done before applying a ceramic coating?

Answer: Perform a panel wipe with an IPA solution to remove polish residue and oils

Wiping panels with an isopropyl alcohol (IPA) solution removes all polish oils, silicones, and residue to ensure the ceramic coating bonds properly to bare paint.