Spray paint removal....

KFC911 · 04-21-2006, 04:30 AM

My girlfriends Lexus SC400 (which I owned for 5 years), was spray painted while she was at work yesterday. Although I haven't seen it yet, she tells me that she was able to remove most of it (while still tacky) with non-acetone fingernail polish remover. That's not what I would have done, but she couldn't get in touch with me for advice so what's done is done. Anyways...in the daylight, I'm sure there's still going to be an issue. The car is white (with clearcoat), so I believe that a pro with the right touch and equipment could 'make it like it was'. Does anyone have any suggestions? She did file a police report, and take some pics. God, I wish I'd have caught them in the act....
I didn't want to hijack Hugh's related thread, but this type of crap sucks bigtime

kach22i · kach22i's Garage

That might take off the clear coat, I don't know for sure.

I've always had good luck with "Mineral Spirits", pretty mild and effective.

Maybe take it to a body shop and have them remove it, and buff it out. I'm just thinking that insurance will cover it and it will be done right.

KFC911 · 04-21-2006, 05:21 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by kach22i
....Maybe take it to a body shop and have them remove it, and buff it out. I'm just thinking that insurance will cover it and it will be done right.

That's what I would have done from the 'git go', but this is my g/f I'm talking about here....would you talk to her for me

?

RickM · RickM's Garage

I have successfully used a cloth soaked in enamel reducer. The spray paint literally wiped right off. (I then washed the car to remove the residue). If the paint is a factory baked enamel or lacquer you should be fine.

I've heard of people using Prepsol or lacquer thinner as well. You may want to try on a small spot to consider results.

KFC911 · 04-21-2006, 05:37 AM

Thanks guys! Unfortunately, from what she told me, some of the damage is on a front fender which isn't factory paint (from a parking lot 'hit & run' during a Daytona race years ago). I sure hope she'll take it to a pro....

ken_xman · 04-21-2006, 05:45 AM

she might have melted the clear on that fender. good news is a body shop can probably wet sand and buff what ever she screwed up.

makaio · 04-21-2006, 08:23 PM

Try one of the clay bar systems. A friend had this happen to his Jeep years ago, and that's what he used.

KFC911 · 04-22-2006, 06:10 AM

Thanks guys! After seeing the car in the daylight, I don't think she'll need to get a pro involved. She was able to remove most of the paint (while it was still tacky) with no damage to the clear coat, etc. There are still a few specs here and there that I'm pretty sure I'll be able to remove w/ mineral spirits, clay bar, etc. I sure do appreciate all of the suggestions!