Just bought my first 1985 corvette. It has a 5x5 inch area on the front left where the paint has rubbed off. A couple other small spots, but otherwise the rest of the paint is in great shape. I can't afford a complete repaint right now, so I'm going to find someone to help me fix that front corner and blend it in.

But it definitely needs a good wash and a clay bar. Can I go ahead and wash it and clay bar it now? Or should I wait until I can get that spot fixed?

Also, is there a favorite product line for car shampoo, clay bar? I've seen people mention the Adams product line. Is there something else that Corvette folks swear by for these old c4s?

I'm brand new to all this, and greatly appreciate any thoughts some experienced c4 guys might have to offer. Thank you for your time!

 

I pretty much stick with Meguiars unless I find something that they don't have.

Don't think it matters when you clay bar it but I'd probably do it right before the paint repair unless that's a long way off.

 

SuperJenny,

I agree with the Moderator. For the 5 different Corvettes I have owned, All of the Meguiar's products have proven to give me the best results, but each Car detailer will obviously have their favorites.

 

Thank you, 73shark! I'm going to take your advice and get my ducks in a row with the paint guy, and then clay bar it just beforehand. That seems like a smart play, opposed to doing the clay bar and then not being able to get in with the paint guy for a month! Really appreciate the advice.

 

Thanks, Steve! I'll go with the Meguiar's. Really appreciate the advice!

 

You're welcome.

One product I use that is not Meguiars is a tire cleaner called Bleche-Wite. I have used it for years and found it to be the most effective cleaner on the market. I don't know if Meguiars makes a tire cleaner or not.