Removal of an Epoxy Paint Overspray on Car
The perfect auto paint job is often compromised by inferior masking techniques and -- as the paint is applied -- overspray that seeps behind...
The perfect auto paint job is often compromised by inferior masking techniques and -- as the paint is applied -- overspray that seeps behind the loose edges of masking paper and lands on adjacent panels. Most paint overspray is easily removed with a light application of cutting compound, but epoxy paints have stronger bonding qualities that make removal more difficult. Great care must be taken when removing epoxy paints to eliminate the risk of burning through the color and ruining the paintwork completely
Rubbing Down Panels
Take a bucket of clean water and dampen the affected auto body panel thoroughly using a sponge. Wrap a sheet of P2000-grit wet-and-dry sandpaper around a soft rubber sanding block and lay the large, flat area onto the paintwork. Move your arm in slow back-and-forth motions, stopping regularly to check that the shine of the paint is being reduced and the overspray is being removed. Take care not to rub too vigorously or the abrasive qualities of the sandpaper will burn through to the layer of primer underneath.
Cleaning and Visual Check
Wipe down the panel with clean water to remove the paint residue and dry it thoroughly with a chamois or microfiber towell. Carry out a visual inspection to ensure all traces of epoxy overspray have been removed. Use a folded piece of P2000-grit wet-and-dry sandpaper shaped around your fingers to remove any areas of overspray inside crease lines and curved areas, taking care to rub lightly throughout the process. Clean the panel again and dry it thoroughly.
Restoring Shine
Place a foam application pad on the head of an electric buffer and apply a small bead of fine-grade cutting compound to the center of the body panel. Place the foam pad flat against the panel and use the buffer to work the cutting compound into the rubbed-down paint, using light pressure. Keep the buffer moving at all times. Avoid holding the pad in one place as this generates heat and can lead to burning through the paint to the primer. Continue until full gloss is restored.
Applying Glazing Compound
Exchange the foam pad on the head of the polishing machine for a lambs-wool pad. Apply a bead of ultra-fine grade glazing compound to the middle of the panel and place the lambs-wool pad flat against the surface. Work the glazing compound into the paint to remove any swirl marks created during the cutting process. Continue until all swirl marks have been removed and wipe any remaining glazing compound away with a clean microfiber cloth to finish.
