Well, I used some touch up pait on some dings here and there and then sanded them down with 2000 grit sand paper (just barely), however on a larger gash I first used 1000 grit and then 2000. Anyway, in order to remove the scratches from the sandpaper I used 3M some polish compound and applied it with some cotton applicators. Well, in order to remove the 1000 grit scratches I had to apply about 3 applications and now the paint in that area is a bit milkier (this is in the back, so it's OK...). However, if I rub my fingers on it it turns into the correct color (normal red)... the texture is also a bit different. I've washed it by hand once and then took it to the coin op to try to remove all of the compound but I"m not sure that it came off.

Also, the other areas were on the hood (many, many dings) and after applying 2 applications of the polishing compound I have lots of swirls.. maybe I pressed too hard? Should I try it again, but this time press more lightly? It's really annoying to have about 1/4th of the hood swirled... Any ideas?

Thanks

 

I would try something less agressive like Meguiars' Speed Glaze or Meguiars' Dual Action Cleaning and Polish (a.k.a. DACP). You don't have to press hard with compound or polish. Just apply a little pressure and let the product do the work.
Good luck. Let me know if this works for you.

Bob

 

Polishing with in a back and forth direction rather than circular will reduce "swirl" marks. The cloudy/milky appearance is typical of clearcoat when compounded. It will go away with less aggressive teatment as SilverBelle suggests.

 

I would go to a body shop supply and buy a very fine polishing compound. It isn't cheap--about $30 a quart. Then, using a 5 or 6 inch lambswool buffing pad on a variable speed drill, slowly and gently buff out the scratches. If you're lucky , you'll still have some clearcoat left. Otherwise, take it to a good detailer (your dealer's used car manager will probably know one) and let them repair it.

 

Thanks for the suggestions everyone.. I think I'm just going to run it by the manager of a repair shop in town to see what he can do.

Thanks!