Does anyone know if all models use clearcoat paints (esp 1997 models). I'm getting ready to purchase a orbital buffer PC 7424, and all kinds of buffers, waxes, etc and it would be good to know.

TIA

Kirk,

AFAIK the metallics were clear coated and the solids weren't.

Check the archives for posts by Yannis A., a dealer rep.

Bryan

I think you will find many ( maybe most) modern paints are clearcoats ,possibly due to EPA regs.(Any body guys out there know the answer to that?)For more info on your paint checkout PAINTSCRATCH.COM.They did a great job matching mine (clearcoat -metallic). Good Luck = = = ===Mark.
BTW, If it is clearcoat, I'd go easy on that buffer...
"96 - 850. Autumn Gold pearl metallic"

I don't really think any 850's had clear-coat over the paint. The Porter Cable 7424 is an outstanding buffer. I use it on oxidized areas but for routine waxing I just use an 11" orbital that I got at Sears for about $50. The 7424 is a little too much to use all the time. I bought my daughter an older BMW and its black paint was a little oxidized in some areas and the 7424 along with some good cleaner made short work of that. The finish looks like new now and I just detail it once a month. Really I use the PC 7424 on my fiberglass boats more than I do on the cars, its awesome on fiberglass gelcoat. But I would pickup a cheap 11" orbital to use for routine waxing too. Good luck ..... Mike

I forgot about the metalic paints. Maybe they had clearcoat on them but it doesn't look like it. My '95 850 Turbo is just black. Mike

my red 97 850 wagon shows a little red on the rag
when i wax, no clear coat???? not sure
but my 93 850 has clear coat for sure