I've got lots of light scratches and etching from hard water. So far I've tried Meguiars deep crystal paint cleaner, then polish. that didn't touch it. Then I tried scratch-x. better but I can still see them. Then I tried some Megs #9. A little better but still not good enough. What's the next step? I'm using a DA with orange light cut pads set on level 5. And I've already read the sticky. I'm thinking Megs #83. Is this too agressive? Should I try #80 or #82 first?

 

I would always start with the lightest one and move up until the problem has been corrected. I always error on the side of caution. But then again I am also completely OCD over my paint. Thats my .02 cents worth.

 

Are you talking about using orange LC pads?

 

I'm talking about these pads.

http://www.autogeek.net/orlowpr55inp.html

Why? Is that the wrong pad? What should I be using?

 

I'd try #80. #9 doesn't have much cut but it does have filler properties which could help out after the application and removal of #80. I'm not familar with Lake's pads, I use the Meguiars pads. So the only thing I can offer you there is to use whatever pad is similar to Meguiars polishing pad. RollingRock uses Lake pads so he could help you as well as hwm3, I believe.

 

#80 would be my recommendation, but I would start with a less aggressive pad than the orange. Do you have any other pads? What other products do you have on hand?

 

Yes, I've got white, black, and blue pads also. All LC. As far as other products, I don't have much. Just what I've already mentioned plus some Megs cleaner wax, NXT, and Carnuba. I'm going to the local carquest today though. He carries most of the Megs Mirror Glaze stuff in stock. What do I need to pick up other than #80?

 

I'd pick up the #80 and give it a try on the white pad.

Would it be possible for you to post a pic of the scratches?

 

yes, I'll get out the camera when I get home so you can see what I'm talking about and I'll pick up some #80 on my way home. I'll have more questions later too. Right now I'm just working on the hood. I've got some bigger problems on the roof that I'll need help with as well. I'll post pics of those too. Thanks for the advice. I'll get the pics up this afternoon.

 

Ok, heres the hood pics

 

And here's the roof pics

 

Any words of wisdom before I tackle the roof?