My car was painted about a year ago. I believe a DuPont clear/base system was used. Recently I've noticed that I can put a dent in the paint using my fingernail using moderate pressure. Some areas of the paint dent easier than others. The areas that dent more easily don't [shouldn't] have any body filler beneath them. I can understand it denting/scratching if the paint was new, but I would imagine it would've fully hardened after a year. If it makes any difference, the car has been garaged almost entirely for the last year and has seen little sun. And, no wax was applied until at least a month after painting.

Anyone have an idea why the paint is soft?

The only thing I can see is that the appropriate amount of hardener was not used in the clear. I would call the manufacturer of the paint and ask them what would cause such a thing. They usually have P sheets with the number, or call your local dealer of Dupont. This is not normal and should be brought to the attention of the body shop.

Id have to agree with Dino on that one. Not enough catalyst. You say that the car has been garaged, by chance, with a cover on it after painting( http://www.camaros.net/forum/frown.gif)or not? Id find out for sure what was used on it(what kind of products).

Dino, hows the car going?

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67 Camaro SS Conv.
70 Challenger R/T Conv.

No, the car was never covered following the painting. The paint still has a new odor to it when it gets warmer in the garage, but I wouldn't call it a strong smell. Supposing not enough hardener was used, will the paint harden over time as the solvents evaporate from the paint? Or will its condition remain about the same? Still checking on paint.

I would imagine over time that it would harden eventually. But its definately because of not enough catalyst.

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John-Bright Blue Metallic 1989 Pro Touring RS,Full Hotchkis Suspension,Baer Brakes,Competition Engineering Sub-Connectors,Flowmaster,Hypertech,Accel Ignition

Thanks guys... somewhat comforting it may harden.



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'68 SS 350 M21 Muncie
LeMans Blue, black deluxe int.

Dan- Although paint continues to harden for some time after painting is complete, somewhat like concrete, a year is too long. You will eventually see a deteriation in the color, as well at the paints ability to reject water spots, acid rain, droppings, etc. The paint will fail and look like @#$%^. Sorry, but you should either re-clear or contact Dupont for a suggestion.