Panel prep doesn't get the attention application technique does, but it's responsible for more comebacks than gun work ever is. A panel that looks clean can still be carrying contamination that only shows up once paint is on it.
Sanding grit progression matters more than most techs think about day to day. Jumping grits too aggressively leaves sand scratches that telegraph through basecoat and show up as texture in the finished clear, especially under raking light.
The final wipe-down step is where most shortcuts happen under time pressure. A rushed solvent wipe with a contaminated rag can put more residue on the panel than it removes — the rag itself is a common, overlooked contamination source.
If you're seeing inconsistent results across otherwise identical jobs, prep routine is the first place to look before blaming the product. We're happy to talk through your current process at the counter or on a route stop if you want a second set of eyes on it.
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