Automotive Refinishing

SOP - Clearcoat Finishing (Dry Process)

• Remove dirt nibs, runs or sags in clear coats.
• Match original paint surface texture.

Mirka Abrasives recommends the Unique or Best product for these applications. To customize your SOP, click the color coded box to choose the Good/Better/Best/Unique product for each step.

Step 1 - Sand

Microstar® P1200
FM-622-1200

MRP-650CV Sander
916sgv48 Backup Pad
1066F Interface Pad

Sand with 1200 grit (dry) using moderate speed.

The clear should “powder” when sanding. If you can not produce dust, then it is not dry enough to sand. Sanding too early risks producing “pills” which will damage the surface.

Step 2 - Finesse

Microstar® P2000
FM-622-2000

MRP-660CV (6", 5mm orbit)
916SGV48 Backup Pad
1066F Interface Pad

Refine sand scratches using 2000 grit Microstar with a 50% overlap pattern.

Step 3 - Buff

Polishing Compound 35
PC35-1L 

MPADTW-7.5-1.5 Wool Pad

(7" Rotary Buffer)

Polishing Compound 15
PC15-1L 

MPADTW-7.5-1.5 Wool Pad

(7" Rotary Buffer)

Buff using polishing compound in conjunction with a twisted wool pad (MPADTW-7.5-1.5).

Use a slow speed (1,500 rpm) to prevent “burning” the finish.

Keep the pad clean from compound build-up. (If shop does not use twisted wool, you can substitute a lambs wool pad MPADLW-7.5)

Step 4 - Polish

Polishing Compound 10
PC10-1L

MPADBF-8 Black Foam Pad

(7" Rotary Buffer)

Polishing Compound F05
MM05-1L

MPADBF-8

(7" Rotary Buffer)

Polish using polishing compound with a black foam pad (MPADBF-8).

Use a slow speed (1,500 rpm) to prevent “burning” the finish.