Paint Correction...is it beyond that?

[mct96gt]

My 96 GT has 170k miles on it and I doubt that any other previous owner of the car has taken car of the paint like they should have. There are swirls and scratches and oxidation of many of the panels. I'm very new to detailing and have just learned the process of correct washing and waxing. I am looking at getting into polishing and compound to correct some of the issues this car has. First I'd like to know if this paint can be corrected without getting a new paint job and secondly i'd like to know if there is anything beyond the standard m105/205 combination that I see is so highly recommended in this forum. Also is this a more difficult job that shouldn't be tackled by a novice, and should I just cough up the dollars to have a professional do it. I'd 100% prefer to do it myself though, however, I do not want to ruin the paint more than it already is.

Here are a few pictures, I will post better and more comprehensive ones tomorrow when its daylight. These were taken at night with a fluorescent light on the car.

 

[SRT Handz]

Hey mct96gt, Welcome to the site!!!

From the looks of the pics, It looks like the clearcoat is in great shape for paint correction. From what i can see, it just looks like some scratches and swirls but nothing too crazy. As long as the clearcoat isnt cracking, you should be good to go!!!

I would say M105/M205 would work perfect for you. Its a great thing to learn!!!!

are you using a Porter-Cable?

 

[mct96gt]

Well right now I have no buffer and am soon going to be investing in one yes. Is it recommended to practice on an old junk body panel before going straight to the car. and also I guess my next question would be, for a good introductory kit to detailing, how much can i expect to spend? 300 or so?

Also which wax would be good on the Dark Tourmaline paint after 205?

Oh and another question. Is there anywhere I can find out the small details about learning how to polish? Like how much polish/compound to use at a time, and how long it lasts on the pad before I have to add more. I am truly a novice.

 

[greenscobie86]

I suggest the m105/205 combo as well...

That paint definitely looks savable.

 

[duh09]

Check out some Handz links on How-tos, I know he has a couple that go to Car Care Products or something like that youtube channel and they're pretty basic, but straightforward walkthroughs on the basics of detailing.

I need to pile up with some more products and actually use my buffer for once.