How do you clean carbon fiber?

[corey240]

i thought thee was a thread on here not too long ago about it, but i cannot find it. my hood has this crud buildup like my paint does and i dont know what to use to clean it off, is there somthing specific i can get from walmart or an autoparts store i should use?r just regular buffing compound. i searched google and a thing came up on a bike forum and the guys aid to use stuff like its regular paint becauses it gel-coat like clear coat.:hug:

[Addicted2Kouki]

any pictures?

[sbanzer123]

you could probally use either a carnuba wax or maybe some polishing glaze.

[viscid240]

How about a clay bar?

[Ninjabread]

Uhh anything that'll work on paint.

That carbon fiber still has a clearcoat ( I hope ) like any other type of paint would.

[MrChow]

I found this the other day. I hope it helps.

Overview:
Chances are if you have had a CF hood, fenders, or other body parts for a fair amount of time, it has begun to fade and collect scratches and dings from exposure to the elements.
Don't fret; you can restore and protect your investment with a simple process if you have the tools and the time.
Difficulty: **
Time: 2-4 hours
Cost: less than $50
Tools:
- soft rags
- soft towel
- buffer
Materials:
- claybar
- warm water
- automotive wash solvent (http://is.rely.net/3-99-5051-l-ly6a99Rg6E9YK6vSyeGS9Q.jpg)
- 3-step wax and compound
Procedure:
before pic:
http://is.rely.net/3-99-5050-l-nlaOm3kI8YvMH5HMtXmZ8Q.jpg
Start by pouring some of your solvent onto one of the soft rags and gently scrubbing the faded areas. Dry them with the towel.
http://is.rely.net/3-99-5052-l-neiF43uv7Sq0V12StTRjHA.jpg
Fill a large bucket with warm water and use the claybar to scrub the whole area. This will lift off any upper-level stains or blemishes.
http://is.rely.net/3-99-5053-l-DBV0o6iO2bU8aiSWB35A.jpg
Use the compound with the buffer and go over the whole area again. Repeat a couple times for best results. When finished, hand wax to desired gloss.
http://is.rely.net/3-99-5053-l-DBV0o6iO2bU8aiSWB35A.jpg
http://is.rely.net/3-99-5055-l-BuxssaqBTgmXlZ4eRzjA.jpg

[corey240]

wow thats awsome, thank you thats perfect! :rawk:

[sbanzer123]

dam thats what i meant claybar not carnuba.

[Jung918]

I would suggest using some soap with the warm water when you claybar. That way it has some lubrication.