How to handle a pitted finish?

[foxbat426]

Hi all, I was laying down one final wet coat on a Duster that I'm doing and the spray nozzle was a bit clogged - hence I have a somewhat "pitted finish". It doesn't look bad but i would like it smooth. How would you guys handle this? - I rather not strip the whole body. Should I sand it out or use a rubbing compound to smooth it and then lay another coat with a clean nozzle? And believe me i will clean the nozzle after each use. - i'm using Testors enamel spray can.

Also can someone explain to me the # sandpaper i should be using on model cars. For instance, what are the different size grits?? What is the roughest I should using and the finest. I remember someone mentioning 3000 grit for finishing. Next paycheck i'm ordering Don Yosts videos!!

Thx again, John

Edited March 17, 2012 by foxbat426

[MikeyB08]

When it comes to sandpaper, you have grits that go up to 6000. You might be able to get some 6000 grit sandpaper and wet sand the pits out. Its super fine but patience is key. I personally have never tried this but its an idea. I use 320 grit to get rid of body tabs and such. I never go anything lower than that though. Otherwise it gets to coarse and can scratch pretty easy.

[LoneWolf15]

Actually the grits go all the way to 12000 . I'd start around 3200 and make my way up to 12000 . Depending on how rough the surface is , you might have to go lower . Wet sand it under cold running water , take care not to burn through on your high points and edges .

[Harry P.]

Cold water, warm water... makes no difference. The point of the water is to continually flush away the grit and keep the sandpaper from clogging; the temperature of the water isn't critical.

[LoneWolf15]

The reason I use the cold water is to keep the surface of the paint cooled down . Warming the surface can cause it to open up and possibly allow more or deeper scratches then warranted while polishing out .

As Harry stated , it also washes away the residue which not only can clog the paper , the residue itself can create scratches in the surface if not rinsed away .