Just want to clean up single stage paint.

[5.4 Shelby]

Hi Mike (and anyone else reading this),

I read through your articles on restoring single stage paint. I am not really looking to restore the paint on this car, I just want to clean it up as best I can without damaging it.

I have a wide selection of polishes, polishers and pads, but, am planning to only work by hand on this one. It is original factory paint and somewhat thin.

I will be picking up this beauty in the next few weeks. I want to be ready to start on it the day I get it. So, I am asking early in order to order the proper products.

This is (soon to be) my unrestored original 1966 Mustang Coupe. The paint is in good shape overall. Not noticeably oxidized. It is, however, very thin appearing. I have not measured using my PTG, but, as you can see, the edges are showing through a little. As this is an unrestored original, I do not want to repaint it. In fact, the patina gives it a lot of character.



It looks real good from 20 feet. When you get closer, however, you can see the thin paint on the edges. Also, there is a lot of grime on the paint.



If you magnify this picture, you can see the spots and discoloration in the paint (I hope you can anyway).

My plan is to waterless wash, use a mild clay, then hand polish to get the shop dirt, etc out. I just want to brighten the paint. Not looking for a mirror finish.

Do you have any suggestion on the safest clay and hand polish for such a fragile and precious project?

Do you have any other suggestions for technique or product?

Thank you for all that you do for the car community.

Kevin.