Citroen XM Forum

Another coat of lacquer added - match almost perfect. I'll get round to all the proper finishing later, but I've done the bonnet, the two rear panels and the strip at the back (where I tested the Halfords batch). While the finish is more dinosaur skin than orange peel, at least there's no bare metal on display now!

It might take two weeks for the clear coat to really harden, then it can be finished properly. Would be nice to have plenty of consistent sunshine, that would help.

Charles M wrote:Test patch of new paint on panel above rear quarter light reveals painter is crap

We don't always agree.

Seriously. Wait a week then flat back with 1000 grit w&d then polish up and it will look fing.

A bit more of a rub down initially would have revealed a totally flat finish, but it's Ok.

You can trap the masking tape under the trim for a tidy edge.

You should have seen the bits I didn't show!

I really shouldn't have done anything today, given the strength of the wind, but I wanted the bonnet done and got a bit sidetracked.

Over exuberance takes hold...

Slowly, slowly catch-a-monkey with paint Charles. Don't be in a rush to make it good, let it develop.

Quite, even crappy clear coat can be saved. Overspray can be rubbed away.

I don't really do patience. If it isn't how I want it within a few minutes, normally a large hammer comes out.

However, as Vince has shown me how to machine polish, I shall at least try this first.

Glad to see your soldiering on with the other bits that needed doing Charles...yours really has the potential to be a superb condition car

Perfect timing Vince - what pads and rubbing compounds/polish would you use to polish these bits up?