How long to wait between clear coats and wet sanding?

[thebrettmoore]

So I'm finishing a tele body for the first time using nitro from Reranch rattle cans. I've read several different methods on how long you're supposed to wait between your last clear coat and wet sanding and I'm hoping to get a better idea of what's right. I know its largely dependent on climate and what product is being used...I'm in the Nashville, TN area and I'm using Reranch rattle cans.

Also, the finish is going on very smooth as it is with no orange peel...when I do start wet sanding should I go as low as 400 grit or start with something higher like 800 or 1000 since it appears to already be a very even/smooth finish?

 

[Shepherd]

Most people recommend waiting a month. If you wet sand it too soon and the nitro is still gassing off (shrinking), all the sanding scratches or defects will reappear later as it cures.

 

[brettmoor]

Thanks Shepherd...anybody else?

 

[flyingbanana]

Thanks Shepherd...anybody else?

If you're looking for a shorter answer...nope. Wait a month.

Then...wet sand with 600, then 800 and watch for shiny spots. Continue until there are no more of those. Just watch out for the edges... Then polish....

 

[nadzab]

I found that it's sensible to wait what appears to be an appropriate length of time (e.g., a month), then wait a while longer. The downsides of moving to the wet-sand phase too soon are not cool.

 

[thebrettmoore]

Noted. A month it is! Thanks guys

 

[flyingbanana]

And don't forget to do the click test at the month mark...

...just to be doubly sure.

 

[thebrettmoore]

And don't forget to do the click test at the month mark...

...just to be doubly sure.

What's that?

 

[flyingbanana]

Ahhhh the click test. Click the finish with your fingernail, and if you hear a hollow sound, it isn't dry yet and if it sounds solid, you're pretty much good to go. Practice on a guitar with a cured finish..you'll know what to listen for.