I love all the posts telling me this is my fault. That's why I generally avoid forums. The signal to noise ratio is far too low. Please note that had Topeak used a proper sleeve on the tool, there would have been no damage and I would not have started this thread.

There is nothing in the product instructions saying that it cannot be deployed for long-term use. Therefore, there is nothing wrong with assuming that a Flashstand can be used long-term, and I cannot be held responsible for the damage.

Staggerwing, you make a sensible comment (one of the few here). I intend to purchase some Meguiar's Scratch-X to try out. It's possible that the mild abrasives in this product will lift the bonded layer off the clearcoat without penetrating through the clearcoat.