AT A GLANCE | OPTIMUM CLEAR COAT RESTORER
Lose the aerosol cans and over-the-counter remedies, ladies and gentlemen. A true jack-of-all-trades and master of all, Optimum Clear Coat Restorer works its magic on a farrago of surfaces. It's also worth noting that Optimum CCR is classified as a true "saving grace" for those who possess those imperfections that sit at a "point of no return". On the other end of the spectrum, let's say you have a pair of headlights that you'd already corrected a handful of times only to see them oxidize again. Thankfully, this is where Optimum CCR comes to the rescue.
So what exactly is Optimum CCR and how does it work? If you follow any of my blogs, you'll hopefully gain an understanding of how modern paint systems work. With that in mind, your clearcoat is the outermost layer of your paint system and gives your vehicle its gloss-like appearance. More importantly, it's the layer that shields against the elements including (UVA/UVB rays, industrial fallout, traffic film, dust, debris, etc.). In other words, it's the layer that decelerates the oxidation and degradation process.
By definition, Optimum CCR is a single-stage, self-leveling wipe-on clearcoat remedy for those that suffer from the dreaded scratch or blemish that stretches past the clearcoat or for those looking for a permanent solution when restoring marker lights, headlights, taillights or anything that falls under the same umbrella.
While application is fairly straightforward, I should throw a disclaimer mentioning that your first application will require some finesse, so don't expect a seamless application the first time around. As with any other product that you start familiarizing yourself with, make sure to test in an inconspicuous area. Sold as a kit, Optimum CCR also includes a set of 4 waffle-weave towels.
Step 1
Ensure that the area you're restoring is free of any contamination. If the surface contains any form of protection (i.e., wax, sealant, glaze, coating), be sure to rid the surface of anything that might interfere with proper adhesion. If necessary, apply either a chemical-based decontamination or traditional clay bar.
Step 2
Once the area has been decontaminated, smooth any deep scratches (those that stretch beyond the clearcoat) that might be present with 3000 grit sandpaper to prepare for application. By applying this step, you will not only keep the surface primed for optimal adhesion, but you will smooth any jagged edges making the scratch appear as inconspicuous as possible. If desired, you can follow with 5000 grit sandpaper to optimize clarity.
Step 3
With one of your included waffle-weave towels, fold it length-wise into thirds. Next, fold each end towards the center so that you're left with a microfiber-like pad. Make sure that the towel is well-saturated but not so much that it's dripping off of the surface. If too little is applied, it will leave permanent streaking, so be sure to test in an inconspicuous area first before proceeding to the desired area. With a generous amount applied onto the supplied towel, move CCR across the surface and wipe in straight lines until you notice an even application is achieved.
Step 4
Avoid touching the surface for a period of 5-10 minutes. Let CCR cure for a period of 30-45 minutes before a second application is desired. Once you've reached the desired results, let the area cure for at least 48 hours before exposing it to water. Once the area has completely cured, feel free to apply your desired form of protection. When using on headlights, marker lights, or taillights, execute the same process.
After using Optimum CCR on a handful of occasions, with one project requiring CCR on a pair of highly-oxidized headlights back in the spring of 2018, you can see the magic that CCR performs to date.
Of course, results will vary depending on the severity of the area that needs to be treated. While it may not be to the same degree as having the panel resprayed, it's a solution that is worth investing in, especially if you're looking for a cost-effective method to restoring headlights, taillights, or other vehicle parts that are prone to premature oxidation and rust. On a scale of 1-10, with 1 being abysmal and 10 being outstanding, my Blackstone Score is a solid 8.
Blackstone Score | 8
Optimum Clear Coat Restorer
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