Wet Sanding For Defect Removal

1998 Ford Taurus V6-3.0L DOHC VIN SSECTION Wet Sanding For Defect Removal
^ Typical paint defects that are repaired with this system include: dirt in paint, solvent "pop," cratering, "orange peel," drips, scratches, water spots, and acid rain

^ Always use the least abrasive (highest grit) sanding products possible to do this job

The following wet sanding procedure utilizes light grit sandpaper or sanding blocks for removal of surface damage. These materials cut quickly, leaving a uniform finish requiring a minimum of buffing to restore gloss.

1. Mist or apply water on the area to be sanded. Continue to flush water on the surface during sanding for maximum lubrication.

2. Use sanding blocks or paper. Keep abrasion to the immediate area of the defect. Keep blocks in water when not in use.

3. If the cutting is too slow, switch to a lower grade block or paper and resume sanding. When 90% of the defect is removed, switch to a 2000 grade sand paper or sanding block to finish smoothing and prepare the surface for buffing.

4. Sanding blocks can be shaped to work on any angle. When the block is wet, rub it against a dry sanding block for shaping.

5. When using sanding papers, wrap the paper tightly around a backing pad. This pad evenly distributes pressure over the entire surface of the sanding paper. This creates a uniform sanding pattern.

6. Plan your strokes to limit the abrasion to the smallest area possible.

7. Always finish sanding with 2000 Grit Sanding Paper. 2000 grit paper will reduce the need for heavy compound, however, the area should be finished by using a cleaner that will remove the sanding scratches left by these papers.

NOTE:
IF MULTIPLE GRIT PAPERS ARE USED, IT IS A GOOD IDEA TO CHANGE THE DIRECTION OF SANDING STROKE TO ALLOW YOU TO SEE THAT THE PREVIOUS GRIT SCRATCH IS REMOVED.

8. Buff out sanding marks by applying Ford Medium Duty Body Shop Paint Cleaner with a "Foam" Cutting Pad (W7000). Follow with Ford Light Duty Body Shop Polish for a swirl-free gloss.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.