Before applying the color coats, which action should be performed on the old finish?

Before applying the color coats, which action should be performed on the old finish?

• A. Polish the surface
• B. Sand and recoat with primer
• C. Wipe with solvent only
• D. Apply a sealer over the old finish

Answer: (D)

When preparing to apply color coats, you need a barrier that both seals the old finish and provides a surface your paint can reliably grip. Applying a sealer over the old finish does just that: it creates a uniform, compatible layer, blocks any underlying pigments or contaminants, and promotes good adhesion for the color coats. If you polish the surface, you’re mainly removing gloss and potentially leaving waxes or oils that can actually hinder adhesion. Sanding and recoat with primer is typically used when repairing bare metal or damaged areas, not for a ready old finish. Wiping with solvent cleans the surface but doesn’t establish the protective, bonding layer the paint needs. Therefore, sealer over the old finish is the appropriate step before color coats.

When preparing to apply color coats, you need a barrier that both seals the old finish and provides a surface your paint can reliably grip. Applying a sealer over the old finish does just that: it creates a uniform, compatible layer, blocks any underlying pigments or contaminants, and promotes good adhesion for the color coats. If you polish the surface, you’re mainly removing gloss and potentially leaving waxes or oils that can actually hinder adhesion. Sanding and recoat with primer is typically used when repairing bare metal or damaged areas, not for a ready old finish. Wiping with solvent cleans the surface but doesn’t establish the protective, bonding layer the paint needs. Therefore, sealer over the old finish is the appropriate step before color coats.