I was buffing a clear lacquered maple piece with Tripoli and the Beall System and dropped the piece, denting it. I will sand out the dent but I don't know how I can re-lacquer just the repaired spot. My question: can the Tripoli wax be stripped/removed completely so I can spray a new lacquer finish? If it can be removed, what is the best method? Thanks in advance.
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Can Tripoli Wax be removed for a refinish?
- Thread starter Randall Smith
- Start date
Tripoli is an abrasive. I don't think it leaves behind a wax residue. Now if you applied Carnauba or other wax using the Beall system you'll have to remove that. Mineral spirits should remove a wax finish. Apply liberally.
Unless a really heavy lacquer build-up, you should be able to spray right over it and it will blend in invisibly.
Unless a really heavy lacquer build-up, you should be able to spray right over it and it will blend in invisibly.
Before you sand it out. Try a moist towel and iron on the dent. This often with raise the dent and then only light sanding will need to be done, if any. Tripoli is a buffing compound and you should be able to wipe it down with lacquer thinner to remove it. It is only the first step in buffing.
Use mineral spirits, naphtha, or turpentine first. Any of them will remove the wax. Best results from two wipes, changing to a fresh rag for the second round.
+1 on steaming out the dent
After trying to steam out the dent any of the solvents Isaac listed should work. I would use automotive grade wax & grease remover. Do not use laquer thinner, it will dissolve the laquer finish and make a real mess. After you dewax it you can spot the area in with spray laquer from an aerosol can or spray gun then rebuff it. You could sand the edges with 600 wet or dry paper to blend the laquer together before buffing if there is a lot of overspray.
Thanks everyone for the great suggestions! I have an idea how to proceed now.
Tom Gall
TOTW Team
Depending on the size of your dent - I've used just a drop(s) of water on the dent and let it sit. Prop it up on a cloth (or whatever) so the drops of water don't run out of the dent. Remember - the water has to get into the wood fibers to expand so your lacquer finish may prevent that. Use lacquer thinner to remove the finish in the dent if necessary. A second round may be required depending on the depth of the dent. If that doesn't work then I would go for the heat/steam treatment.
I have done this several times, it works well.