hey fellas i am noticing on my 2000 firebird that i got really fine swirl marks all over the body. i have no idea how they are getting there but its frustrating me is there any way to take them off for good? i have heard that buffing them out wit compound will only conceal them for a month or two and them they will show again? any info would be helpful thanks!

 

Yes and no. If you use a good polish with something like a Porter Cable orbital buffer or a rotary buffer (experienced users only), you can remove swirls. Some polishes contain oils and fillers which conceal swirls until the oil/filler wears away.

If you aren't using good supplies, techniques, and procedures, your swirls will be back the first time you wash your car. You need good mitts, towels, soaps, etc. You also need to learn how to wash and dry your car the correct way. You also have to wash and dry your towels and mitts a certain way. Remember that process is more important that products.

First, wash your car. http://www.bettercarcare.com/articles.php?articleId=9

Then, clay your car. http://www.bettercarcare.com/articles.php?articleId=14

Next, polish your car. http://www.bettercarcare.com/articles.php?articleId=17 http://www.bettercarcare.com/articles.php?articleId=47

Then, seal/wax your car. http://www.bettercarcare.com/articles.php?articleId=29



These are what I use and some tips:

Basic Weekly Wash Supplies

Wash Mitts - Viking wash mitts or genuine wool mitts.

Car Wash Soap - some popular ones are Meguiar's NXT car wash (cheapest), 1Z Perls shampoo, Zaino Z7, and Wolfgang auto bathe.

Drying - Waffle Weave microfiber towels from www.pakshak.com , California Water Blade (use with caution), and 100% white cotton towels, made in USA.

Washing, Drying and Waxing Tips

- Never use circular motions. Always wash, dry, and wax using front to back and top to bottom motions.

- Don't use the same mitt or bucket for wheels that you use on your paint. The brake dust, etc. from your wheels will cause scratches and swirls in your paint.

Caring for Mitts and Towels

- Wash on the Warm/Cold setting
- Use Liquid Detergent only w/ no bleach and NO fabric softener
- Add White Vinegar to the rinse cycle for added softness and soil release
- Rinse twice
- Dry towels on low heat w/ no fabric sheets

 

some very nice step by step methods there...good post ZaneO

Cory

 

only if your buffing them out w/ something that has fillers i.e meguiars No9.
if you use the links that Zane provided you can use the menzerna and it will remove the scratches.