Hi there, just wondering what is the best way to apply the touch up paint? I noticed a chip on my hood recently and I would like to take care of it ASAP! I just ordered my paint from Xterraparts.com. I heard the brush in the bottle is no good. Any suggestions anyone?

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2001 Silver Ice SE 4x4
3 Pak

Clean any residue from the location.
Since the X is clearcoated, you will need the base color and clearcoat paint. Use a tooth pick or match stick cut to a point to apply the base color. Keep the new paint below the level of the original paint. You may need more than one coat. Allow time for drying. Apply the clearcoat - go a litle above the level of the original paint. Use two or more thin coats rather than one thick blob.
After the paint is fully dry you will want to remove the 'bump'. Here's the trick. Get some ultra fine sandpaper - around 2000 grit. Use a paper punch and make a tiny circle. Glue it with rubber cement to a pencil eraser. Carefully spin your mini-sanding block over the chip. Remove just enuf new paint to come level with the rest of the area.
Some cleaner grade wax will shine the very fine marks made by the 2000 grit paper. Finish with regular wax.

dave and Xtoy - good as new

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Base color *and* clear coat paint? Hmm, where would I get the clear coat? I just assumed that the touch up paint would be enough! Thanks for the great info!!!

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2001 Silver Ice SE 4x4
3 Pak

You can get clear coat touch-up stuff at any auto parts store or the dealer. If you don't apply the clear, your touch up will not 'shine' like the rest of the paint, as the base color is sort of flat/semigloss. Be careful what kind of clear you get though, some are better and easier to work with that others. Call around and ask some paint shops.


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2001 SE 4x4 5-speed
Super Black