Bicycle Mechanics - Anyway to smooth out touch up paint

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gabiker
08-07-02, 07:04 PM
I had a spot on the bottom of my top tube that brake cable apparently rubbed through the paint to bare metal. I smoothed the area out with fine sand paper and steel wool and then primed it. I then put touch up paint on it, sanded it a little and then put a coat of clear coat on. The problem is you can still see the brush marks. Is there anyway to smooth these out or am I stuck with them?

I know there is no way for it to look like it was with out spraying it, but was wondering if there is a way to get most of them out.

As always thanks for your help.

By the way unless you bend down and look under the tube you can't see it anyway. I am just picky I guess.


--walt--
08-08-02, 07:34 AM
Rub it out with a rag and light rubbing compound/car polish (any paste stuff you have in your garage). You'll be surprised at how much force is needed, but you'll also be pleased with the results.

gabiker
08-08-02, 08:07 AM
Thanks Walt. A guy I work with told me pretty much the same thing this morning. I bought a 2002 Lemond Zurich which was dealer demo and I found the spot the first time I cleaned it. Of course they said they didn't know it was there which I feel is a lie. Anyway I love the bike, have almost got it where you really have to look for it and got about $650 to $700 off of retail so I guess I can't complain to much. It does have the full warranty on everything else.

Thanks again... :p


gabiker
08-12-02, 01:22 PM
Walt,

Got some rubbing compound and worked on the area. I almost have it where you can't tell I touched it up. After a little more it will be real close. I won't be able to get it perfect but darn close. Thanks again.