How to Avoid Discoloration On Silver Cars / Deep Dent Repair
This paintless dent repair (PDR) article is about how you can avoid the majority of discoloration on silver metallic vehicles when performing PDR on deep dents.
Deep creases through a body line are very complex to begin with. And silver cars can be a bigger challenge because you have to keep a close eye on the paint. We are talking about the discoloration that happens quite often. It's caused when the metal is stretched back when applying pressure from behind and the metallic seems to become white, AKA, "ghosting." One technique used to avoid "ghosting" discoloration is to use heat prior to removing your dent. Also, tap down all crowns and high spots as much as possible. This allows much more flexibility in the metal and paint.
Unfortunately in some cases if the dent is very deep, you'll find even though you did all the preventive measures to avoid "ghosting" the paint, it happens anyway. Don't be too discouraged... there is still hope. Here is a little tip "if" your silver panel starts to discolor. First get out as much of the dent as possible. Then take 2000 grit sand paper, soak it in water for about 5 minutes or more. Lightly (with the weight of your finger tips) apply pressure horizontally for about 15-30 seconds. Then wipe off with clean microfiber cloth. Next apply a light clear coat compound to remove the find scratches. I prefer a small buffer wheel that can fit on your cordless drill. Last, either rub or buff with with wax and you will reduce the "ghosting" in your pdr repair by 80% or better.
Here is an example of what was a "ghosting" situation on a Mercedes Benz. A deep crease that went through the body line. This Mercedes pdr crease repair did not look so good before we color sanded. NOTE: Color / Wet sanding should only be used in these cases. Do not let wet sanding become a habit. To prevent micro high spots, use the soft tip and switch up your tool tips. Remember to always protect your tool tip as you push. Do not use bare metal tips against the panel unless you are very experienced.
Tools used:
30" Soft Tip
Ultimate Knock Down
Gaffers Tape
