Paint coming off when hand applying compound?

[genesiss]

My car is old - 1999 and had tons of small scratches oxidation, etc.. so got a strong compound Meguiars Ultimate cut. When I applied it with my microfiber towel, I noticed my towel getting black from the paint. I hadn't expected that - shouldn't it just work on the clearcoat - I don't think it is single stage paint - it's a Lexus es 300. Did I pick too strong an abrasive? Or should I be using foam instead. Or is this normal?

[Evan.J]

Sounds like its a single stage paint but to be sure and to make sure your not dealing with clear coat failure, can you take a photo of the area you are working on.

Additionally, check other panels and see if you get the same transfer.

[genesiss]

Sounds like its a single stage paint but to be sure and to make sure your not dealing with clear coat failure, can you take a photo of the area you are working on.

Well I am experiencing clearcoat failure in other parts of the car, but I thought that was contained to where I could see it.
Here are some pics of the failures http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/...scription.html

Note that I was not polishing those areas, rather the other panels.

[CowboyTruckn]

Those areas are definitely cc failure. Someone may have already tried to remedy the problem before you with a single stage paint. No polishing can fix that damage. You need paint work.

[genesiss]

Those areas are definitely cc failure. Someone may have already tried to remedy the problem before you with a single stage paint. No polishing can fix that damage. You need paint work.

Not disagreeing, just trying to make things better as I currently cannot afford a paint job. Besides the whole car cost around $3000 so I am really just looking to make things as best as I can right now.

[DetailingNoob]

I don't think Meg's UC is as 'strong' as you think it is. So I doubt that's your problem.