concrete/cement or something on paint?

[Mayhem]

So, originally I thought there was mud up the side of the truck.. (which is normal).

but it seems like it may be concrete/cement or something as it doesn't wash off.

It seems to come off if you scratch at it with your fingernails, but.... I don't wanna damage the paint or cause any permanent scratches/damage.

Insurance will cover the cost of having it repainted... But, I would prefer not to devalue the truck if avoidable....

Is there a safe way to remove something like this without causing damage to the paint, rather than having to repaint it?

Also, prefer not to have a repair history on the truck.... if I wanna trade it in later... it'll surely not help me none.

 

[ace75]

There's a citrus smelling non toxic cleaner that I have seen used on concrete pumps. Cleans off the concrete without messing up the paint.

 

[treypal]

Probably d-limonene based. That's the solvent used when you smell citrus. It's made from the oil out of orange peels.

 

[Mayhem]

I've heard some of those concrete cleaners strip away the outer layers of the paint too? And have to be handled pretty carefully.

Anyone on here used something like this on their vehicle?

 

[Yogurt Raptor]

Have you tried blowing it off with a pressure washer???? Pointing the nozzle underneath the corner of the concrete??

 

[Johnny]

sounds like you might have drove thru some fresh soil cement ...

 

[Mayhem]

Well... at this rate, if they are repainting half the truck.. I'm wondering if I'd almost be better off just having a custom paint job done. See how much of it insurance would cover.

 

[Yogurt Raptor]

Well... at this rate, if they are repainting half the truck.. I'm wondering if I'd almost be better off just having a custom paint job done. See how much of it insurance would cover.

Im confused Bud????? Repainting truck..... Did you try the Pressure wash idea. (my Troy bilt comes w/ 4 different tips, I use the one that is made for driveways"sharppoint" real carefully try to point underneath where it has bonded to truck to try and spray majority off) same principal as using a scrapper w/o the damage to paint. Try to get the majority off then use a cleaner wax to get rest off. This usually works on mild cases. I have done this on several occasions for gum, asphault, tar, paint etc.

Im only trying to help!!!! I hope you dont have to resort to repainting

 

[flash_e]

Once you wash it well you can try using a clay bar. The bar does a good job of removing most things off of the paint. You can pick a mother's clay bar up at Walmart or an automotive store.

 

[Mayhem]

Well, thanks for the input guys. I left it up to the guy at the body shop I deal with.

He was able to polish/buff out everything that was on paint, without having to repaint anything and not only that got the truck looking even better than when it was brand new ! Worked out most of the swirls the dealership put on it too! Pretty relieved.

Some of the plastic trim parts and rocker panel had to be replaced though to restore them to original. Obviously they can't be treated the same as painted metal components.

Anyway, I have the peace of mind of having my factory paint intact, and a concrete/cement free exterior.

And the truck has never looked so good. Inspired me to get out and take some shots for this months photo contest.

Also had the truck in at the dealership for some transmission issues.. I guess there was a TSB for the problem and the truck is actually now running better than it ever has too! Unbelievable the difference it made.