Carbon fibre wings - water marks

[David White]

I'm sure I've seen this subject discussed before but an struggling to find the thread.

My front carbon wings have white spots appearing (presumably water marks) and I'm looking for advice on how to get rid without having to remove or recoat the wings.

Thanks in anticipation!

David

[Jonathan Kay]

Lots in the archives!

Possibly the best single thread.

Jonathan

[Simon420R]

The best product I've found for water marks is Koch Chemie FSE. It has a gentle limescale remover in it, which is perfect for removing water spots (it also acts as a great quick detailing spray as well). Spray it on, leave for about ten seconds and then buff off with a decent microfibre cloth. If the spots have been on for a while or are more ingrained into the clear coat you could try a decent polishing compound like Meguiars ultra finishing polish, either applied by hand or a dual action polisher, if you have one. 

[StevehS3]

I made some mistakes but quite enjoyed the refurbishment over winter. I could make a better job next time.

Before during and after.

[Blackmamba]

That's a good result. What did you do to get them at finish?

Also, can anyone suggest the best place to get replacement rubber trim for the edges and the adhesive to stick it down with?

Thanks

[K7 VCT]

Yes StevehS3, what did you do 

[David White]

#2 Thanks Jonathan - there seem to be a variety of options and a bit of trial and error.

#4 StevehS3 - would be interested to know how you achieved that. Great result!

[Drakman]

Caterham sell both the adhesive and the rubber edging for the cycle wings.  The rubber edging is cheap, the adhesive is not.

[SM25T]

Took my rubber edge trim off 16 years ago.

[David White]

 I used superglue when assembling the car.

[Simon420R]

I repaired a damaged carbon bow protector a few months ago. The lacquer had cracked and chipped in transit. After a few YouTube tutorials I wet sanded the clear coat right back (make sure you don't go in too heavy or you'll hit the fibres), then reduced the grade of paper and did it a couple more times, eventually ending up with 2000 grit. Once sanded right back I wiped away any excess dust and applied 2k clear coat. Ensure you wear a mask and protect your skin. It's carcinogenic and you have to be careful. Again, YouTube helped me here on how best to apply it. The 2k will give a professional body shop quality gloss finish. The bow protector looked great when finished and it saved me buying a new one. 

If I ever need to repair a carbon wing I'd use exactly the same technique. It would only take an hour to prepare and it will be as good as now. 

[StevehS3]

#5 #6 #7 I used ECR epoxy coating resin which has a UV resistant. It's about £20 (the 500g pack is more than enough). https://www.easycomposites.co.uk/xcr-epoxy-coating-resin

The instructions are in the video 'How to cover existing parts in carbon fibre'. The later steps show the stages of applying the resin and flattening the surface. I use a similar technique with good results for finishing paintwork that I have brush painted.

[NCronin]

I desperately need to know how you did that! My R400 has the same problem and it's letting the car down. 

[StevehS3]

#13 take a look at the video. Ignore the first parts. The finishing is in the later sections. My mistake was doing it over winter in a unheated garage. It was too cold to cure properly. The good thing is you just sand it down and have another go. This is what I used. 

[Geoff Brown]

Or try this in the 250ml size which is ample for two cycle wings. Provides a fantastic finish which lasts. 

2K Rapid clear coat - SprayMax

Prep is paramount including using tack sheet prior to spraying. Needs to be done during Summer for correct ambient temperature.

H&S - it is harmful. So good mask, eye protection, hat & gloves. Cover whole car to protect from fallout.

 

[Simon420R]

That clear coat is fantastic stuff. That's what I used for my carbon bow protector. As you say, a professional mask and skin covering is definitely need as it's carcinogenic.