Paint Care

Here are some quick guidelines for caring of freshly painted surfaces.

Nothing with wax or Silicone must be put on the paint for a minimum of 3 weeks during the curing time . Although the paint is hard enough to be used it is still curing and the microscopic holes that allow the solvents to escape must not be filled in . Proper care during this time assures the final gloss and hardness will be at it's maximum . Application of a product such as these will improve the gloss while allowing the paint to fully cure .

Use 3m Hand Glaze or Meguiars # 2 You can normally find this at a NAPA or similar auto parts store . It should get at least a couple applications during the 3 weeks curing time . ( The more the better ) Apply with a Foam applicator ( Like this one from HD ) then remove with the inside of Sweatshirt material . Use a couple of rags to get most of it off then use a couple more to get the remaining off . Don't try to rub too hard with the first set of rags getting it all off . Apply using firm pressure with the foam pad but taking it off should be a delicate touch . I also suggest using an Absorber Brand drying towel when drying the bike off or for quick dusting . I keep 1/2 of one in a ziplock bag in the bikes tool compartment for gas spills etc . It drys extremely well and doesn't scratch (assuming you keep it clean ) Terry cloth or those miracle gimmick cloths will scratch !

I generally do not wax a bike I just apply the glaze/polish more often but if you must wax use a pure carnuba wax in liquid form and also apply with the sponge . These have no abrasives to put spiderweb scratches in the finish and dry clear so if you miss a spot it doesn't look like caked up toothpase . Remember WAX is for protection but POLISH is what gives Paint its gloss !!