CTG-1

Quick guide

• Using the device:
• Always make sure the device is calibrated before you start measuring. Calibration instructions are in the user manual.
• To measure, gently press the gauge against the paint surface, making sure the gauge is perpendicular to the surface. Repeat the measurement in several places. For example, it is good to take dozens of measurements on the bonnet, from different parts of the bonnet. It is worth recording the results in a map-like form so that you can monitor the thinning of the surface during polishing.
• Measuring is not rocket science, it is easy and pleasant!
• Next, DUDE's tips for measuring:
• Clear-coated paint surfaces:
• The paint surface is usually built up as follows: there is a primer at the bottom, then the actual paint, and finally the lacquer that creates the gloss. You should not damage the clear coat of a car, as it does not look very nice. The paint thickness gauge therefore measures all of these layers in a single measurement, but does not tell you the thickness of the lacquer alone.
• Often a good way to check the average thickness of the lacquer is to take measurements from, for example, under the bonnet, where there is no lacquer layer but the primer and paint are present. By measuring there you learn the thickness of the layer formed by the primer and paint. ALWAYS measure in several different places and calculate the average thickness from them. Once you know the layer thickness formed by the primer and paint, it is easy to calculate the average thickness of the lacquer layer on top by measuring the surface on the outer panels. Always take measurements in several places, as the thickness of the paint and lacquer varies slightly.
• Layers of clearly differing thickness may also be found under the paint surface, which usually indicates later repainting, sanding, filling or a similar repair. Polishing such areas must be done with great care.
• Single-stage (direct gloss) painted surfaces:
• You can easily measure single-stage painted panels directly from the paint surface. Note, however, that the primer is also included in the measured result. If you find a panel somewhere with only primer, you can take a measurement in the same way as on clear-coated cars, which gives you a thickness closer to the truth for the actual paint surface.

Source: Autodude quick guide on the product page.