Oxidation removal

[Janny-300sd]

Hi
We just purchased a 1980 300SD, the previous ownner had it parked outside for the last 4 years. He had coated all paint surfaces with WD-40 to prevent rust! We thought this was unique, but there is no rust, so it must have worked. Upon removal of the WD-40, we found a very oxidized paint surface. No amount of poishing this far with Turtle wax products, for this problem seems to have really worked. I have applied and removed products to the same area 4 times and see some good improvement, but I am not looking forward to doing this to the entire car. Are ther any easier solutions?

[kevinrea]

a nice new paint job is much easier.

kevin

[Janny-300sd]

Gee, thanks Kevin :p

[Gold420]

Try claying it, that stuff works miracles, it that doesn't do it you may need to use mild rubbing compound.

[MTI]

Clay will lift out surface contamination, but it won't do anything for oxidation of the color coat or repair a clearcoat that's failing.

[Iron Annie]

I'm having similar issues with my 84' 300D. The stock gold paint was looking dull so I applied a light rubbing compound followed up later with Maguires car wax. I used a circular buffer to make it shine, but it's still not great. I can see reflections on the hood now (which is great) but up close it still could be better. Should I do another application of the cleaner/polish for the oxidation? I am trying to restore a 22-year-old paint job afterall.

[Janny-300sd]

HI Annie

We seem to be at the same spot. It's a shame that even through the oxidation the finish has great reflective power, but I can't get beneath it.
Loved your solution to tail gater's!

What is the clay bar? Is that a Zaino product?

[Ferdman]

Patrick, try some machine polish to improve the appearance of the paint on your 1984 300D. Griot's Garage sells 3 different types of machine polish. Check out their products at griotsgarage.com I've been pleased with the performance of their polishes even though they're a bit expensive. Realize that polish improves/restores the paint shine and wax protects the finish. It's recommended to use a random orbital buffer with machine polishes so that you don't damage the finish. It may be simpler for you to have your 1984 300D professionally detailed and then maintain the restored finish by polishing and waxing it regularly.