what type of sandpaper to use on the car?

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Preparing the surface of your car before painting or refinishing is crucial to achieving a professional and long-lasting finish. One of the key tools in this process is sandpaper. However, with various types and grits available, it can be challenging to determine the right sandpaper for your car. In this article, we will discuss the different types of sandpaper suitable for automotive applications and help you make an informed choice.

Understanding Automotive Sandpaper:

Automotive sandpaper is specifically designed for use on cars and other vehicles. It is engineered to withstand the demands of sanding hard surfaces and achieving smooth results. The two primary types of sandpaper used in automotive applications are wet/dry sandpaper and dry sandpaper.

Wet/Dry Sandpaper:

Wet/dry sandpaper, also known as waterproof sandpaper, is designed to be used with water or a lubricant. It features a waterproof backing that allows for wet sanding, providing a smooth and consistent surface. Wet sanding with wet/dry sandpaper helps reduce dust and clogging, resulting in better finishes. This type of sandpaper is ideal for automotive applications and is commonly used for removing old paint, sanding body filler, and preparing surfaces for primer and paint.

Dry Sandpaper:

Dry sandpaper, as the name suggests, is used for dry sanding applications. It doesn't require water or any lubricant during use. Dry sandpaper is commonly used for rough sanding, shaping body filler, and removing imperfections. It is available in various grits and is effective for smoothing surfaces and feathering edges.

Choosing the Right Grit:

The grit of sandpaper refers to the size of the abrasive particles on its surface. Different grits are suitable for specific stages of surface preparation. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right grit for your car:

1. Coarse Grits (40 to 80): Coarse grits are used for initial paint removal, leveling uneven surfaces, or smoothing out rough areas. They are effective for stripping old paint, rust, and imperfections.

2. Medium Grits (100 to 150): Medium grits are ideal for feathering edges, refining body filler, and smoothing out scratches. They are commonly used after coarse grits to achieve a more even surface.

3. Fine Grits (180 to 220): Fine grits are used for final sanding before painting or refinishing. They help achieve a smooth and uniform surface, removing any remaining imperfections or scratches.

4. Extra Fine Grits (240 and above): Extra fine grits are used for sanding between coats of paint or clear coat. They help create a smooth finish and remove any visible flaws.

Choosing the right sandpaper for your car is crucial for achieving excellent results in surface preparation. Wet/dry sandpaper and dry sandpaper are the two main types used in automotive applications. Wet/dry sandpaper is suitable for wet sanding and offers a smoother finish, while dry sandpaper is used for dry sanding and shaping.