Bug Discolorations

[BB]

Gary...Help!
My Stone White GT has spots on the grill where bugs were splatted at high speed. The bug guts have been cleaned off but there is still a discoloration (for want of a better term) that does not respond to anything I've tried so far; cleaners, even polishing compound. I guess the clear coat is damaged. Ultimately I plan to install a billet grill which will take care of a lot of the problem. Is there anything else I should try in the mean time?
Thanks!
BB

[turbomangt]

BB, when you say you tried cleaners, what type brand? Bug residue has acid in it, and over time it can damage or "etch" the clearcoat. But that usually happens over time not from a single trip. If you used something like a Meguiars Paint cleaner and you still see the discoloration it is possible the clear coat was etched. On white though its not a noticable as dark colors. A buffer with the correct pad/product will bring some of it back to life, but if you don't have experience with them, take it to a local detail shop and for a few bucks they should be able to help you out. OR, come to Chicago and I'll do it for you.

[BB]

Hi Gary! The discolorations are from a long time back...before I bought the PT. I'm good about getting bug guts off after a drive but the previous owner apparently was not. Your discription of "etching" is right on the mark. I'll try some Meguiars this weekend just for fun. Would claying be worth trying? I will be getting a new billet grill at some point so I can live with the blotches for a while. Hmmm...if I drive up to Chicago from TX, I'd have a LOT of bugs for you to get off!
Thanks!
BB

[turbomangt]

BB, claying won't do a thing if its etched, you need to get it buffed with a compound, then polished and sealed. If you make to be Chicago, I'll be ready for you. Gary