Which one to use?

[Schmohey]

Is it better to use Meguiars #80 or #83 on a black car?

 

[ZaneO]

It depends on the finish condition. No one can answer your question without seeing it.

 

[Eliot Ness]

It depends on the severity of the paint defects you're trying to remove/correct.



I would suggest going with #80 first, then step up to #83 only if #80 isn't abrasive enough to correct what you're working on. If you use #83, you may need to finish off with #80.



Start off with the least abrasive polish first, then move on to something stronger if needed. You can do the same theory with your pads, before switching to a stronger (more abrasive) polish you can try a step up in pads. After a little experience you will be able to judge the condition of the finish and what to start off with easier. Until then it's best to play it safe.

 

[acl99]

Depends on the hardness of your paint and the depth of the swirls, can you give us a pic or a better description of your paint condition?

 

[Wasatch]

Zane is right. If the vehicle has some very light cob-webbing #80 should do the trick, but if you got heavy marks #83 with a PC should do the trick. Another good thing about #80 is it's a one-step so that's basically all you need.