General Application Instructions
You can do this!
If you are wondering if you can really apply touch up paint to your vehicle, and make it look good, the answer is yes. Just read the instructions first and take your time. You will be able to expertly repair car scratches using these simple touch up paint directions. We show you how to use touch up paint in a spray can, paint pen, or brush bottle to repair car scratches. It is easier than you think.
Preparation
- Cleaning: Thoroughly wash the area with soap and water to remove dirt and grime. Follow this by applying a wax and grease remover to eliminate any residues that might interfere with paint adhesion.
- Masking: Protect surrounding areas with automotive quality masking tape to avoid accidental overspray or paint marks.
Safety Precautions
- Protective Gear: Use an approved automotive paint respirator, safety goggles, and gloves when handling and applying automotive paint to safeguard your eyes and skin from harmful chemicals.
Testing Paint Compatibility
- Paint Testing: Always test the paint on an inconspicuous part of the vehicle before full application. Allow the test area to dry and check for any adverse reactions or color mismatch.
Temperature and Humidity Control
- Ideal Conditions: Conduct painting operations in temperatures ideally between 50°F and 70°F. Avoid painting in direct sunlight or temperatures exceeding 80°F as this can cause the paint to dry improperly.
- Humidity: Keep humidity levels below 50% to prevent paint defects like whitish haze or streaks. Test the paint under current conditions by applying a small amount and observing its drying characteristics.
Rust Treatment
- Inspect for Rust: Check if there is rust within the scratch or chip. Remove surface rust using 220 grit sandpaper or a wire brush, then treat with a rust converter to prepare the surface for painting.
- Severe Rust: If you have holes or areas in the paint that are bubbling, these areas need to be thoroughly repaired before applying touch up paint. We recommend visiting a body shop for recommendations or just having them do the rust repair work.
Primer and Adhesion
- Primer Application: Apply primer to any bare metal or plastic areas to ensure proper paint adhesion and to fill small imperfections. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly before applying paint. Primer sticks to unpainted surfaces and paint sticks to primer.
- Adhesion Promoter: Use SEM Adhesion Promoter on non-metal surfaces like plastic or chrome to ensure paint adherence. This should be applied before any paint layers.
Application Techniques
- Layering: Apply paint in multiple thin layers rather than a single thick layer. This approach allows for better drying and more even coverage.
- Drying Times: Ensure each layer is dry to the touch before applying the next. This is crucial for preventing reactions between layers and achieving a smooth finish.
Finishing
- Clearcoat Application: If using a product that requires a clearcoat, apply it only after the final paint layer is completely dry. Extend the clearcoat application slightly beyond the area of the basecoat to blend it seamlessly into the existing paintwork.
- Curing Time: Allow ample time for the clearcoat to cure fully, often three days or more, depending on environmental conditions.
Using Rubbing Compound
- Polishing: After the clearcoat has cured, apply a rubbing compound to enhance the gloss and smoothness of the finish. Use a clean, soft cotton cloth and gentle circular motions to buff the area.
Final Checks and Maintenance
- Waxing and Washing: Avoid waxing the new paint for at least 30 days to ensure full curing. You can wash the vehicle gently but avoid high-pressure jets on the freshly painted areas.