Looking for guidance… deeply etched waterspots

[Chris-SwerveProDetailing]

I have a 2016 Range Rover HSE in for intensive waterspot removal. The paint is metering between 105-120microns around the vehicle. A 2-step correction has addressed 90% of the issues except on the horizontal panels ( hood and roof). This is OEM paint which I “never” sand, but did a test spot gently sanding with 2000 and then doing rotary/wool/heavy cut followed by gear-driven/ foam/ finishing polish with success. Per measurements, we removed about 15 microns. I know the risks, but no way to resolve these without a sanding step. Given I’m experienced and very mindful of things, should I cautiously proceed? FYI - I have communicated the risks to customer and indicated the liability resides with them. Should I proceed?

 

[Mike Phillips]

The last time I saw water spot etchings this bad is when I buffed out a Corvette in Irvine, California while working at Meguiar's.

I'm thinking these are Type 4 and that picture in Type 4 is the picture I took of the Corvette. Somewhere I have the original.

Let me get back to you.

 

[Chris-SwerveProDetailing]

Hey Mike - Wanted to let you know I went for it. Sanded with 3000 (by hand for precise control), Cut with rotary/wool/heavy cut, finished with free-spinning DA/LC orange foam pad/finishing polish. Per measurements, I removed around 15 microns. I think we got 80% of them, but did not chase the deeper ones. Pics here for reference. FYI - Included a photo of the other car we have in for car show prep for fun ('69 Camaro Z/28) - It's getting top to bottom, inside and out attention, engine bay detailed, brightwork, and a polish for Saturday's car show. Thanks Mike for all the education and support to this industry you provide!!
Chris Bence / Swerve Pro Detailing

 

[Mike Phillips]

Looks GREAT to me! Apologies I didn't get back to you - was actually making a video on how to remove FRESH water spots.

For water spot ETCHINGS like you dealt with - a mechanical method is the only answer. Mechanical meaning machine polishing and/or sanding followed by machine polishing. And it looks like you saved the paint job.

My guess is - like a lot of cool muscle cars, when this went into the paint booth - the painter sprayed more or extra clearcoat knowing the car would be sanded and a seasoned painter will spray more paint not just for sanding and buffing - but for the FUTURE - for things like this. With a little extra paint - you have a little more safety margin to work with.


Your success reminds me of a saying I learned from my long-time friend Pall Grasso - in fact, I wrote an article for his quote because I share it all the time.


The difference between a hack and a professional is a professional knows when to stop

Mike