What can I use to remove mold from paint.

[crazycrak]

I just got a truck it was parked under a tree for many years. The paint appears to still be in decent shape. What can I use to get this [censored] off?
I used auto tint safe windex on half of the hood to see how it cleaned up(cause it's what I had at the time) It turned out pretty decent but I'm not sure if it is safe on paint or not but I rinsed if off with clean water after I was done.

 

[Cujet]

Try simple green or other industrial cleaner.

Just be sure to buff and wax it afterwards. Those types of cleaners will strip the wax from paint.

 

[chad8]

Originally Posted By: crazycrak
I just got a truck it was parked under a tree for many years. The paint appears to still be in decent shape. What can I use to get this [censored] off?
I used auto tint safe windex on half of the hood to see how it cleaned up(cause it's what I had at the time) It turned out pretty decent but I'm not sure if it is safe on paint or not but I rinsed if off with clean water after I was done.


I would use sodium percarbonate (oxyclean) mixed in hot water from a pump sprayer or bucket. get the commercial version if you can. It will fizz up the mold without damaging the finish. . I use it on decks and it doesn't hurt the stain / paint at all.

 

[nitehawk55]

Cleaners may work but you might have to go with a buffing compound . Other problem with sitting under some trees is sap and bird poo .

 

[hisilver]

There is probably numerous things under the sink that would do it.
I'd go right to old trusty: 50/50 bleach/water. Rinse thoroughly

 

[earlyre]

Originally Posted By: hisilver
There is probably numerous things under the sink that would do it.
I'd go right to old trusty: 50/50 bleach/water. Rinse thoroughly


my thoughts exactly.
you can try a million things that MAY work, but why, when there's tried and true, and most importantly CHEAP method that certainly WILL work.

 

[crazycrak]

What would be the best way to use the bleach mix scrub it with a sponge and rinse then wash with a car wash soap then wax.

 

[demarpaint]

Bleach water will work, keep in mind it is corrosive, so any chips might flash rust. I would also recommending starting off with a milder mix than 50/50. I would try 70/30 water/bleach and work up from there. Don't exceed 50/50, but I think a milder mix should work.

I would apply it with a Hudson Sprayer, let it sit a little then try sponging it. Then rinse, and wash with soap and water. Finish by waxing the car.

 

[typ901]

I've heard of people using Bon-Ami. Mild abrasive.

http://www.bonami.com/

 

[HardbodyLoyalist]

You might consider just parking it in direct sunlight for a few days.

Barring that, you may get away with using a fairly strong solution of antimicrobial dishwashing detergent.

I'd stay away from bleach. Strong oxidizers and paint don't mix.

 

[doitmyself]

What you really might have is tree sap/aphid droppings on your car and the mold is growing on this.

It might be a good idea to visit a detailing forum like autopia and investigate tree sap removal. Some ideas that came up in a quick google search included isopropyl alchohol solution and WD 40. I would avoid anything very harsh that might damage your finish. Always test a very small spot.

Best of luck!

 

[RTexasF]

Any all purpose cleaner should do the trick along with some elbow grease. Home Depot carries ZEP which works very well. Once it is clean and clayed you will get a true picture of what you actually have.